Safety footwear is crucial for protecting workers in various industries from potential hazards. Understanding the different safety ratings can be challenging, but it is essential for selecting the right footwear. This comprehensive guide delves into the key standards and ratings, including EN ISO 20345:2011, and explains the significance of various safety rating codes. From basic protective features to advanced slip resistance, we cover everything you need to know to make an informed decision about your safety footwear needs.

Standard EN ISO 20345:2011

The EN ISO 20345:2011 standard is the benchmark for safety footwear in Europe. It specifies fundamental and additional requirements for this footwear intended for general use. The standard ensures that footwear meets minimum performance criteria, such as resistance to impact and compression. This footwear compliant with this standard must feature a protective toecap that can withstand a 200-joule impact, ensuring robust protection against workplace hazards.

Safety Rating Abbreviations and Codes

These footwear ratings are often indicated by abbreviations and codes that summarise the protective features of the footwear. Common abbreviations include SB, S1, S2, S3, S4, and S5, each denoting different levels of protection and additional safety features. Understanding these codes helps in identifying the right footwear that meets specific safety requirements in various work environments.

What Do The Safety Rating Codes Mean?

Safety rating codes provide a quick reference to the protective capabilities of the footwear. Each code encompasses specific features such as toecap protection, anti-static properties, water resistance, and slip resistance. Deciphering these codes helps in selecting safety footwear that offers the necessary protection for the specific hazards present in your workplace.

Anti-Slip Footwear Ratings

Anti-slip ratings, such as SRA, SRB, and SRC, indicate the level of slip resistance a footwear provides on different surfaces. SRA-rated footwear is tested on ceramic tiles with soapy water, SRB-rated footwear is tested on steel floors with glycerol, and SRC-rated safety footwear meets the requirements of both SRA and SRB. It offers superior slip resistance in diverse conditions.

What Safety Footwear is Right For You?

Introducing a range of robust and reliable safety footwear solutions from Blackrock®. Each meticulously designed model combines essential safety features with durable materials. It helps to ensure maximum protection and comfort in demanding work environments.

Blackrock® Atlas Leather Composite Work Safety Shoe S3 SRC

Key Features

• Metal-Free and Lightweight: The shoe is entirely metal-free, which makes it significantly lighter and more comfortable to wear over long periods.

• Composite High Resistance Toe Cap: The shoe features a composite toe cap that provides robust protection against impacts and compression. 

• Protective Composite Midsole: The midsole is also made from composite material, offering excellent resistance to punctures and sharp objects.

• Double-Density PU Shock Absorbent Sole: The sole is crafted from double-density polyurethane (PU), which is designed to absorb shocks effectively. 

• Water-Resistant Leather with Padded Collar: The upper part of the shoe is made from water-resistant leather, keeping your feet dry in wet conditions.

• Fully Moulded and Removable Insole: The shoe includes a fully moulded insole that is removable for easy cleaning or replacement.

Buy Now: Blackrock® Atlas Leather Composite Work Safety Shoe S3 SRC

Blackrock® Avenger Waterproof/HRO Boot S3 WR HRO SRC - Steel Toe - Heat Resistant

Key Features

• Waterproof Design: Crafted with a waterproof leather upper, this safety footwear keeps your feet dry and comfortable in wet and rainy conditions. It ensures you stay focused on the job.

• Heat Resistant Outsole: The boot features a heat-resistant outsole that provides protection against high temperatures, making it suitable for environments where heat exposure is a concern.

• Steel Toe Cap and Midsole: Equipped with a steel toe cap for impact protection and a steel midsole for underfoot puncture resistance, ensuring comprehensive safety against workplace hazards.

• PU/Rubber Sole: This sole offers excellent grip and durability, providing stability and traction on various surfaces. It enhances comfort with shock-absorbing properties, reducing fatigue during long shifts.

• Fully Moulded and Removable Insole: Includes a fully moulded insole that can be easily removed for cleaning or replacement, offering customised comfort and support.

Buy Now: Blackrock® Avenger Waterproof/HRO Boot S3 WR HRO SRC - Steel Toe - Heat Resistant

Blackrock® Brogue Black Leather S1-P SRC Safety Shoe

Key Features

• Steel Toe Cap: Provides robust protection against impacts and compressions, meeting safety standards for various industrial environments.

• Protective Steel Midsole: Offers underfoot puncture resistance, ensuring safety from sharp objects such as nails or debris.

• Smooth Leather Traditional Design: Features a timeless brogue design crafted from smooth leather, providing a sophisticated appearance suitable for formal workplaces.

So, among these shoes, you can choose Blackrock® footwear for unparalleled safety and durability, tailored to meet the rigorous demands of your workplace.

Buy Now: Blackrock® Brogue Black Leather S1-P SRC Safety Shoe

Can I buy second-hand safety footwear? 

Absolutely NEVER buy second-hand safety footwear. The risks far outweigh any potential savings. Safety equipment, especially footwear with crucial protective features like toe caps designed to withstand 200 joules, must be bought new to ensure reliability. Second-hand items may have compromised integrity from previous use, potentially failing under stress and causing serious injury. With a wide range of footwear available at varying price points, there's no excuse to compromise on safety by purchasing second-hand. Protect yourself—always opt for new, certified safety footwear.

Care for Your Footwear for Long-Lasting Protection

Look after your footwear, and it will look after you. Just like all your personal protective equipment (PPE), your foot protection has limits. Proper care extends their lifespan, saving you money in the long run. Clean muddy boots, dry them naturally when wet, and use laces correctly to prevent damage. Store them securely to avoid unnecessary wear, and invest in products like Dubbin for leather maintenance. 

Most importantly, regularly inspect your footwear for any signs of wear or damage that could compromise safety. If unsure, replace them immediately to maintain optimal protection. For a range of durable and reliable safety footwear, visit Bulkworkwear.co.uk today.