A Simple Guide to EN ISO 20345:2022 – The New Safety Shoes Standard

In the ever-evolving world of workplace safety, staying up to date with the latest standards is crucial. For businesses and workers alike, understanding Safety Shoes Singapore Regulations is vital to ensure optimal protection and compliance with safety standards. One of the most important safety footwear standards globally is the EN ISO 20345 standard.

In 2022, a new update, EN ISO 20345:2022, was introduced, bringing with it key changes and enhancements aimed at improving safety in the workplace. But what exactly does this new standard mean for you?

Let’s break it down in this simple guide to EN ISO 20345:2022.

What is EN ISO 20345:2022?

EN ISO 20345:2022 is an international standard that defines the basic and additional requirements for Safety Shoes in Singapore that are designed for use in professional environments. These Safety Shoes are specifically designed to protect the feet from a range of workplace hazards, including impact, compression, punctures, and exposure to various chemicals and electrical risks.

The EN ISO 20345:2022 standard is the updated version of its predecessor, EN ISO 20345:2011. This new update introduces modifications to enhance safety features and reflect changes in workplace environments, technology, and materials.

Most of the basic requirements for Safety Shoes are the same for EN ISO 20345:2011 and EN ISO 20345:2022:

• Minimum requirements for the toe cap:

  • Drop test at 200 joules of test energy (20 kg from a height of approx. one metre)

  • Static pressure test at 15 kilonewtons (approx. 1,500 kg of pressure)

  • Inside length depending on Safety Shoe size (e.g. 39 mm in sizes 41-42)

• Corrosion resistance for steel toe caps, behaviour test for non-metallic toe caps when exposed to heat and chemicals

• Resistance, non-toxicity and properties of the materials used in the sole and shoe upper

• Height, ergonomics and comfort of the shoe

However, EN ISO 20345:2022 includes several key changes to help health & safety professionals ensure they are purchasing Safety Shoes they need.

Key Changes in EN ISO 20345:2022

1. Puncture resistance of the perforation-resistant insert In the previous standard, all perforation-resistant insert, or nail guards, are marked with the symbol P. The test is carried out with a 4.5 mm nail.

   In the new standard, the testing and protection classes for Safety Shoes with steel nail guard remain unchanged. For non-metal perforation-resistant insert, the markings change and the protection class is differentiated according to the diameter of the test nail:
   

   PS = nail used in the test Ø 3.0 mm (Small)

   PL = nail used in the test Ø 4.5 mm (Large)
   

   The protection markings for perforation-resistant insert can be, for example: S3S, S3L, S1P, S1PS, S1PL.

   
   

2. Slip resistance In the previous standard, slip resistance was marked as follows: SRA, SRB and SRC.
   

   In the new standard, slip resistance no longer has a separate letter symbol in the certificate as it is a basic requirement. The test is equivalent to the former SRA test carried out on a ceramic tile coated in a soap solution.
   

   An additional feature is a test carried out on a ceramic tile with a glycerol solution. This is marked with SR (= Slip Resistance) in the certificate. The additional feature is not obligatory.
   

   If it is not possible to carry out the slip resistance tests on Safety Shoes (e.g. Safety Shoes with integrated studs), they are marked with the symbol Ø (= not tested).
   

   Resistance to fuel oil (FO) will be an additional feature, but Sievi will test and require this feature in all its safety and occupational footwear.

   
   

3. Waterproof and water resistant In the previous standard, water resistance of the upper material was marked with the symbol WRU (Water Repellent Upper).
   

   In the new standard, water resistance of the upper material is marked with the symbol WPA (Water Penetration and Absorption). The waterproof feature is marked with WR (Water Resistance). There are also two new protection classes, S6 and S7, for waterproof footwear.
   

   S6 = the Safety Shoes meets the requirements of class S2 and is also waterproof (WR).

   S7 = the Safety Shoes meets the requirements of class S3 and is also waterproof (WR).

4. New additional features The new additional features in the standard include the previously mentioned FO (resistance to fuel oil), which was previously a basic requirement of the standard, and SR (slip resistance). Other new features include:
   

   SC (Scuff Cap) = abrasion resistance of the impact protection/toe cap. All materials used by Sievi in impact protection and toecaps meet this requirement.
   

   LG (Ladder Grip) = Testing of the additional features is not mandatory.

   
   

5. Orthopaedic Safety Shoes The new standard divides orthopaedic Safety Shoes into three types:
   

   -        Type 1: Safety Shoes fitted with orthopaedic insoles

   -        Type 2: Safety Shoes with an adapted outsole

   -        Type 3: Custom-made Safety Shoes

   
   

The Updated Table According to the New Standard EN ISO 20345:2022

EN ISO 20345:2022 covers a broad spectrum of requirements that Safety Shoes must meet:

• Toe Protection: Safety Shoes must feature protective toe caps capable of withstanding a minimum impact of 200 joules and compression forces of 15 kN (kilonewtons).

• Sole Protection: The sole must offer resistance to punctures, slips, and provide durability against wear and tear in various environments.

• Waterproofing: The standard includes tests to ensure that the Safety Shoes is resistant to water penetration, keeping the feet dry in wet working conditions.

• Electrical Insulation: Safety Shoes may also need to provide electrical insulation for workers exposed to electrical hazards, ensuring safety from electrical shocks.

• Comfort and Fit: Proper fit, breathability, and support are key factors that the new standard addresses, promoting health and well-being for the wearer over extended periods.

Who Does the EN ISO 20345:2022 Apply To?

The updated standard applies to all manufacturers of Safety Shoes and to businesses and individuals in industries where there is a risk of foot injuries. These include, but are not limited to:

• Construction

• Manufacturing

• Warehousing and logistics

• Oil and gas

• Agriculture

• Transportation

Why is EN ISO 20345:2022 Important?

For businesses, compliance with EN ISO 20345:2022 means ensuring the safety and protection of workers while minimizing the risk of injuries. Not only does it safeguard employees from common foot injuries, but it also ensures that the business remains compliant with legal and regulatory standards.

For workers, this updated standard means improved protection, comfort, and overall safety during their daily tasks. By wearing Safety Shoes that meets the highest standards of protection, they can focus on their work with confidence, knowing they are adequately shielded from potential hazards.

Conclusion

In summary, the EN ISO 20345:2022 is a significant update to the Safety Shoes standards, ensuring that both employers and employees benefit from enhanced protection, comfort, and durability. Whether you are an employer looking to comply with the latest regulations or a worker seeking the best Safety Shoes for your job, understanding this standard is essential. By choosing Safety Shoes that meets EN ISO 20345:2022, you’re investing in your own safety and well-being – and that’s something that should never be overlooked.

Stay safe, stay compliant, and make sure your feet are always protected with the latest Safety Shoes standards.

Want to Learn More About EN ISO 20345:2022?

Feel free to contact us for more information on the latest in Safety Shoes standards, or explore our range of compliant, high-quality footwear options tailored to your specific workplace needs.

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