March 2024
Stay ahead of the curve with our latest insight into safety footwear standards.
Only 33% of safety footwear brands adhere to the most recent safety footwear standard*, leading the way for precision and quality, setting higher bars for compliance. Ensuring your shoes are on the mark means happier, safer workdays for your entire team, ensuring productivity and peace of mind across the board.
Toeing the Line – Standards
Are your boots up to date with the new standards? Requirements laid out in the 2022 European regulations overhaul requirements for safety footwear. These emphasise accuracy and quality, alongside higher minimum requirements to pass the standard. The new standard is coded as ISO 20345:2022, look out for this on product pages and supplier sites.
On Solid Ground – Slip Resistance
Make sure your feet aren’t going anywhere. Working with safety footwear in many environments comes with high fall risk. If your PPE isn’t right for the job, you could risk more than just dropped goods. Check the slip resistance of footwear by ensuring the supplier displays an SR marking. If old codes are displayed (‘SRA’, ‘SRB’ or ‘SRC’) this means a less stringent test was used.
A Step Ahead – Scuff Caps
Scuff caps aren’t just for show; when the job demands constant movement, their durability becomes paramount. The introduction of a new scuff cap test is designed to make sure footwear provides the protection you need. This test subjects the scuff cap to 8,000 abrasion cycles, rigorously assessing its ability to withstand wear and tear. On passing this, the footwear earns the ‘SC’ symbol.
Secure from Toe to Sole – Puncture Resistance
Every step counts when potential hazards lurk underfoot. Puncture resistance, a term replacing penetration resistance in older standards, tests footwear against nails. Look for the ‘PS’ marking on products, indicating they’ve undergone rigorous testing, including facing a 3mm nail challenge. This specialised test, absent in previous standards, highlights thorough testing in realistic work environments.
Happy Feet, Happy Life – Comfort
Sore soles can be a pain in the foot when a job means always being on your feet. It’s crucial to prioritise comfort and support when selecting footwear for your team. Sore soles aren’t just uncomfortable; they can also lead to decreased productivity and increased risk of injury. Look out for features like comfort soles and padded ankle protection when shopping for work footwear. These elements can make all the difference, providing cushioning and stability to keep your employees comfortable and focused throughout the day.
For full details on the new standard, check out our page on the 20345:2022 changes by clicking the button below or have a look on the HSE website.
