What features does your safety footwear need?

SRA: Tested on ceramic tile with sodium lauryl sulphate (a diluted soap solution)

SRB: Tested on steel with glycerol

SRC: Tested under SRA and SRB conditions

C – Conductive

A – Antistatic

I – Insulation against electricity

HI – Insulation against heat

CI – Insulation against cold

E – Energy absorbing seat region

AN – Ankle protection

HRO – Heat resistant outsole

WR – Water resistant

WRU – Water resistant upper

M – Metatarsal protection

CR – Cut resistant upper

We all know that toes are a very vulnerable part of the body, especially at work where there are a number of hazards that could lead to a foot injury. In this standard toe protection must be able to withstand a 200 joule impact. Different types of toe protection include steel toe caps or lighter alternatives such as a composite or aluminium toecap.

Clothing and climate factors can cause a build up of static charge of electricity in the body and some materials used in the construction of safety footwear can over-insulate the body, causing the charge to be held. When a worker touches something conductive, the charge can rush from the body quickly, causing a spark and a small uncomfortable shock. Anti-static footwear significantly reduces this effect.

Sharp objects can be a significant hazard at work. Midsole protection can guard against nails and other sharp protrusions, which could otherwise lead to disastrous consequences. In order to meet the requirements of EN ISO 20345, footwear midsoles must be able to resist a penetration force of 1100N. Midsole protection can be provided in one of two methods: stainless steel or aluminium insert in the sole, or a Kevlar insole.

This refers to energy absorption in the heel region.

Footwear may be classified as water resistant in general (WR) or they may just have a water resistant upper (WRU).

The outsole must be able to resist 300°C for 60 seconds.

For resistance against cold, EN ISO 20345 footwear is tested for 30 minutes at 1-20°C and for resistance against heat they are tested for 30 minutes at 150°C.