Safety footwear: the 2024 standards in effect

Since the European harmonization of the new EN ISO 20345 standard in 2023, safety footwear standards have undergone essential transformations to ensure increased protection for workers, marking a significant step forward in workplace safety.

What are the major changes in the EN ISO 20345 standard?

The new EN ISO 20345 standard has been improved to better address specific occupational risks.

Slip resistance

The tests have recently been expanded to include a rigorous check of the forefoot. These tests reduce the risk of falls, particularly in environments where there is a risk of slipping.

Shoe perforation and marking

The introduction of specific markings such as "PL" and "PS" ensures clear identification of shoes that have passed tests with non-metallic inserts. This marking thus improves protection against punctures and sharp objects.

Resistance to hydrocarbons

Although the "FO" marking has become optional on the shoe, it still guarantees adequate resistance of the soles to hydrocarbons, offering increased protection in environments where such liquids are common.

The new requirements added

The addition of "S6" and "S7" markings to identify water-resistant footwear now responds to a growing demand for protection against the elements.

The importance of standards for worker safety

Safety footwear standards play a critical role in preventing workplace accidents.

The S1, S1P, S2, S3, S4, S5 standards

These markings indicate specific characteristics for different professional environments, offering protection against chemical, thermal, mechanical, biological, and electrical risks, as well as hazards related to movement. These standards guarantee the durability, safety, comfort, and slip resistance of the footwear.

2024 Safety Footwear Standards Guide

Safety footwear standards, marked with the prefix "S" according to the EN 20345 standard, simplify the understanding of the characteristics and protections offered.

Additional markings for specific protections

The markings A, E, FO, P, CI, HI, HRO, ESD, WRU, WR, M, AN, CR offer additional protections, by testing, such as antistatic, shock absorption by the heel, resistance to hydrocarbons….

A = Antistatic

E = Shock absorption at the heel of the shoe

FO = Hydrocarbon-resistant sole

P = Anti-perforation shoe sole

CI = Cold insulation

HI = Heat insulation

HRO = Heat-resistant sole (up to 300°C)

ESD = Shoes that dissipate electrostatic charges

WRU = Water-repellent stem

WR = Waterproof shoes (resistant to immersion for a certain time)

M = Metatarsal protection

AN = Protection of the malleoli

CR = Cut-resistant stem

Slip resistance standards

For the shoe's slip resistance, the SRA, SRB or SRC markings ensure better grip on different types of surfaces, offering protection against falls.

SRA = sole tested on ceramic floor covered with detergent and water

SRB = sole tested on steel floor covered with glycerin

SRC = SRA + SRB

Safety standards vary depending on the professional sector practiced.

• S1P: Safety shoes suitable for indoor or dry environments for crafts, mechanics, logistics and light industry.
  
• S2: Ideal shoes for cooks, food processing and logistics.
  
• S3: Shoes are suitable for various outdoor activities, including construction, landscaping and industry.
  
• S4 / S5: Footwear designed for harsh environments such as agriculture, construction and industry.
  

This guide details the new standard and essential markings, enabling workers to choose footwear suited to their specific needs and offering targeted protection for a variety of work environments.

Note: Since the update of the EN ISO 20345 (2022) standard, safety footwear must be SRA certified. The SRB marking has become SR, indicating a better representation of work environments.

Recent advances in safety standards

Modern safety footwear doesn't sacrifice style for safety. Safety sneakers, featuring a sporty and lightweight design, meet demanding European standards while offering optimal comfort. Reputable brands such as S24, Shoes for Crew, and U-Power have already innovated to create ranges of modern footwear adapted to demanding professional environments and these safety standards.

Safety footwear standards in 2024 offer enhanced protection. Their evolution towards stricter requirements, combined with modern designs, ensures optimal safety in the workplace, reducing risks for workers.

Find all our men's and women's safety shoes in our catalogue!