If you are looking for more details, kindly visit our website.
Did you know that the National Safety Council reports an annual total of over 53,000 foot injuries followed by a staggering 44.5 million injuries in the workplace caused by slips, trips and falls in the USA alone?
Each one of these statistics stands for a person whose life is affected, and it surely serves as a reminder of the importance of providing workers with the right safety footwear.
That being said, we know how challenging it can be to sift through the multitude of options available, decoding safety standards, and determining which materials are best suited for your unique work environment.
So, if you&#;re grappling with the challenge of selecting the ideal safety footwear for your workers, this guide will provide you with valuable insights into the factors to consider and the options available, ensuring that you make an informed and confident choice.
Here are the topics we will cover:
- Understanding Safety Shoes Standards In The EU
- What Are Safety Shoes Made Of and Why?
- How to Choose the Right Model
- What Size Safety Shoes Should I Buy?
- Is There A Difference Between Men&#;s And Women&#;s Work Shoes?
- Where Do You Need to Wear Protective Footwear?
- Maintenance And Disposal
- Best Safety Shoes Suppliers in Europe
The National Safety Council reports an annual total of over 53,000 foot injuries in the USA alone.
Understanding Safety Shoes Standards In The EU
In Europe, the EN ISO : standard establishes the guidelines for safety shoes based on the required protection levels.
According to this classification, safety shoes are categorized into different classes, each offering distinct safety features:
- SB (Safety Base): These shoes feature a toe guard made of steel, composite, or aluminium. They provide protection against falling objects and have a dent resistance of at least 200 Joules. The heel shock absorption is also at least 200 Joules.
- S1 class: This class of shoes is antistatic and absorbs energy in the heel.
- S2 class: In addition to the features of the S1 class, these shoes offer higher waterproofing.
- S3 class: Incorporating the properties of the S2 class, these shoes have a hardened midsole and an antislip tread.
- S1P class: These shoes, similar to S1 class, feature a steel or steel-free midsole to prevent penetration by nails or other sharp objects.
- S4 class: These shoes have the properties of the S3 class but are entirely made of plastic, making them waterproof.
- S5 class: These shoes, similar to the S4 class, have a hard midsole and an antislip tread.
Apart from these, safety shoe ratings also extend to the following protective attributes:
CodeAttributePPuncture resistance
CElectrical resistance (non-conductive)
AElectrical resistance (anti-static)
EEnergy-absorbing heel
HIHeat insulation
CICold insulation
WRUWater-repellent uppers
HROHeat-resistant outsole
For example, if your workers are operating in an environment where there is a risk of falling objects or foot impacts, then SB class shoes with a steel or composite toe cap would be appropriate. For those working in wet conditions or where there is a risk of electrocution, the waterproof and electrically resistant properties of S4 or S5 class shoes would be more suitable.
You can refer to the following table for more examples of use cases and the level of protection required. Please keep in mind that these are general guidelines. If you have doubts about the best safety class for your use cases, we warmly recommend getting in touch with our experts for a personal consultation.
What Are Safety Shoes Made Of And Why?
Safety shoes are crafted from a range of materials, each selected for specific protective properties such as durability, impact resistance, and comfort.
Leather, known for its breathability and adaptability, is a go-to material. For instance, carpenters working in semi-controlled environments might opt for leather boots, benefiting from their form-fitting nature over time. Meanwhile, synthetic materials such as nylon or synthetic leather are lighter and more resistant to water and chemicals. Workers in chemical plants might prefer these, valuing the resistance against potential chemical spills.
Diving into protective elements, steel toe caps remain a top choice in industrial settings like construction sites where the risk of heavy objects falling is frequent. Composite toe caps, utilizing materials like carbon fibre, are preferred in electrical environments because they don&#;t conduct electricity. Meanwhile, warehouse workers, who need protection but also desire lightweight footwear for easy mobility, might lean towards aluminium toe caps.
When it comes to midsoles, EVA&#;s cushioning properties make it ideal for healthcare workers who stand for long shifts, offering them comfort throughout. Polyurethane (PU) is durable and absorbs shocks well, making it suitable for dock workers who handle heavy cargo and navigate uneven surfaces.
Concerning outsole materials, rubber&#;s excellent grip is invaluable for factory workers, especially if they deal with oil-based machinery, given its resistance to oil. TPU, due to its combined resilience and strength, is especially favoured in rough terrains, such as on mining sites.
Lining materials cater to specific environments. Textile linings, with their breathable nature, are suitable for office settings with air-conditioning, ensuring comfort throughout the day. In contrast, forestry workers might opt for GORE-TEX® boots, appreciating its waterproof properties during rainy conditions.
For insoles, memory foam is a popular choice among retail workers. Spending hours on their feet, they benefit from the foam adapting to their foot shape. On the other hand, factory workers, who tread on hard concrete floors, might find gel insoles more comfortable due to their enhanced shock absorption.
Please notice that these are general recommendations, but we warmly recommend getting in touch with our experts to find the best options for your unique settings.
How to Choose the Right Model
The key to selecting the right safety footwear is understanding the specific hazards faced by your workers, and this is done by conducting a thorough risk assessment, especially if your company employs a large number of employees working in diverse settings.
You (or your designated professional) can start with an on-site inspection to identify potential dangers. These can be:
- Falling objects and/or heavy machinery
- Wet and slippery floors
- Build-up of static electricity
- Chemical or metal splashes
- Sharp objects like blades and nails
- Burning objects like molten metal or sparks
After successfully identifying all potential hazards your employees might encounter, you can run an audit of your current safety footwear selection to ensure that it is both appropriate and that it complies with the latest safety standards.
Based on your findings, you might have to source new models that include the needed safety standards, while also taking into account your specific work needs and workers&#; preferences.
While you&#;re gathering your workers&#; feedback, also inquire about their preferred shoe cut. High-cut options (like work boots) offer added support around the ankle and Achilles tendon, making them well-suited for roles that require stability. Conversely, low-cut styles afford more ankle flexibility, ideal for jobs requiring frequent kneeling or bending. However, it&#;s worth mentioning that low-cut shoes offer less Achilles tendon protection.
As a last consideration, make sure you buy the correct size as ill-fitting shoes can cause discomfort and impair work efficiency. Always opt for safety shoes that don&#;t constrict your workers&#; feet or press against their toes, especially around the toe caps. Also, keep in mind that feet can swell over long work hours, so a little extra room is generally a good idea. For this, we recommend initiating shoe fittings for a small group of employees and making the necessary size adjustments if needed.
More of this in the next section.
In Europe, the EN ISO : standard outlines the criteria for safety shoes according to the necessary protection.
What Size Safety Shoes Should I Buy?
Selecting the right size is almost as important as selecting the right level of protection. After all, ill-fitting footwear will cause discomfort and in some cases, it can also lead to accidents, reduced productivity, and long-term health issues.
Here are some key points to help you make the right decision:
- Between Sizes: If you can&#;t decide between two sizes, it&#;s generally better to go with the larger size. This will give your workers&#; feet some room to breathe and accommodate for any swelling that may occur during a long day of work.
- Seasonal Changes: The right size may vary with the seasons. In cold weather, your workers may be wearing thicker socks or even double socks to keep their feet warm. Similarly, some safety shoes come with insulating lining for cold weather. Make sure there is enough room to accommodate these additions without making the shoe too tight. On the other hand, in warm weather, your workers&#; feet may tend to swell more, so it&#;s important to have shoes that won&#;t become too tight.
- Try-On: If possible, always select a small group of workers for a try-on before purchasing. Ask them to walk around and get a feel for the fit. Uncomfortable shoes can cause distraction and discomfort, and on a job site, that can be dangerous.
- Work Socks: When trying on safety shoes, ask your workers to wear the same type of socks that they would typically wear to work. This will give them a more accurate feel for how the shoes will fit during their workday.
Is There A Difference Between Men&#;s And Women&#;s Work Shoes?
Men&#;s and women&#;s feet can greatly differ in shape, width, and size. This is why the right choice of safety footwear isn&#;t just a matter of size but of overall fit.
Generally speaking, women&#;s shoes are designed with a narrower heel and a wider forefoot compared to men&#;s shoes. Imagine a woman who typically wears a size 42 in men&#;s shoes. Even if you provide her with a men&#;s safety shoe, the fit won&#;t be ideal if the heel is too wide, causing her foot to slip out, or the forefoot is too narrow, causing discomfort. This woman might actually need a 41 in women&#;s sizes due to these differences in foot shape.
When it comes to sourcing, you should always make sure that the work shoes are available in sizes and widths suitable for both genders. This might mean sourcing from different suppliers. For example, you might need to order from a supplier that offers a specific line of safety shoes designed for women, in addition to the regular order of men&#;s safety shoes.
Jianlida supply professional and honest service.
Where Do You Need to Wear Safety Footwear?
Different workplace environments come with specific hazards that require specialized protection.
Here are some examples of distinct workplace situations and the corresponding safety footwear features that you should consider:
- Electric Shock: In industries like electronics manufacturing or electrical repairs, workers handle devices that carry electrical currents. For instance, an electrician working on power lines would require work shoes with anti-static and electrical resistance properties to protect against accidental electrocution.
- Sharp Objects: Construction workers or carpenters often find themselves in environments with nails, shards of glass, and other sharp objects. In these situations, puncture-resistant boots are a must. A construction worker stepping on a nail would benefit from a shoe with a puncture-resistant sole, preventing the nail from penetrating through.
- Falling Objects: In industries like warehousing or factories, heavy objects such as tools or machinery parts can fall from shelves or workbenches. An industrial worker in a factory, for example, would benefit from wearing workshoes with steel or composite toe caps, which provide protection against impacts.
- Explosive or Electrostatic Discharge: In environments like pharmaceutical manufacturing or grain processing, there&#;s a risk of flammable materials igniting due to static electricity. Workers in these settings should wear footwear with anti-static or electrostatic dissipative properties to mitigate the risk of sparks igniting volatile substances.
- Exposure to Water, Heat, or Cold: Specific industries like fishing or metal smelting expose workers to water, extreme heat, or cold. For instance, a fisherman working on a trawler would need work boots with insulation against cold and water-repellent uppers to keep their feet dry and warm.
- Welding Spray, Molten Metal, or Corrosive Liquids: Workers in metal fabrication or chemical processing are often exposed to welding spray, molten metal, or corrosive liquids. A welder dealing with sparks and molten metal would need footwear with fire-retardant properties and resistance to molten metal.
- Uneven Ground: In outdoor environments like construction sites or hiking trails, the ground is often uneven and poses a risk of sprains or injuries. For example, a surveyor working in rugged terrain would benefit from shoes with ankle support to prevent injuries.
Maintenance And Disposal
Taking care of work shoes is a must to ensure their protective features last. However, no matter how well they&#;re looked after, even the best safety shoes on the market will reach a point where they need to be replaced.
Here are some indicators that it&#;s time to get a new pair:
- Visible Protective Components: If you notice a protective element such as a reinforced toe, steel midsole, steel shank, or metatarsal guard starting to show through, replace the boots immediately.
- Dented Toe Caps: Steel toe caps can dent and fail to spring back after a significant impact or puncture. Composite toe caps might not show visible damage as easily, so it&#;s important to keep track of major incidents that could compromise the integrity of the safety features.
- Separation of Parts or Seams: Safety boots made of rubber or PVC materials may exhibit visible separation of parts or seams as they wear out. If you notice any separation, it&#;s time to get a new pair.
- Worn Outsoles: Pay attention to the tread of your shoes. When the tread becomes smooth, the shoes will no longer offer adequate slip resistance.
- Leakage: If your job involves working in damp environments or exposure to hazardous chemicals or other corrosive materials, any sign of leakage in your shoes should be a signal to replace them.
In conclusion, routinely checking and caring for your work shoes helps them offer the best protection over their lifespan. If you observe signs of wear and tear, it&#;s time to get a new pair to stay safe and healthy on the job.
Best Safety Shoes Suppliers in Europe
When looking for reliable industrial safety footwear suppliers in Europe, you should always consider factors such as product specs and fit, compliance with European safety regulations, and pricing. After all, procuring the best safety shoes for your use cases shouldn&#;t always break the bank.
This is where a wholesale marketplace like Droppe can make a difference.
Droppe&#;s catalogue includes 150,000 industrial SKUs from 100+ vetted European suppliers and it makes it easier than ever for you to compare their product selection, price, delivery time, and much more.
So, rather than spending countless hours negotiating with different work shoe suppliers, you now have their selections and offers in one single place. Plus, there are no geographical limitations, so your supplier pool will expand throughout Europe.
Additionally, as we know how hard it is to include multiple product specs and safety classes in your search, we&#;ve created user-friendly search filters to help you quickly locate all the relevant products in a few clicks &#; so, no time is wasted sourcing through the wrong shoe models.
Try Droppe today to find all the best work shoes from top-rated suppliers in Europe, or get in touch with our product experts for a custom quote tailored to your needs.
Different workplace environments come with specific hazards that require specialized protection.
Conclusion
Choosing the best safety shoes for your workers is a decisive factor in safeguarding the well-being, health, and comfort of workers in diverse sectors. Given the myriad options available, it&#;s important to thoroughly assess your workplace&#;s unique needs, such as the hazards present and the duties of your staff.
Think about the height of the shoe cut, the sizing, and the protective features needed for your work setting. Verify that the selected safety shoes adhere to applicable safety standards, like the EN ISO norm in Europe. Regularly check and care for your work shoes to extend their lifespan and maximize their protective capabilities. When wear and tear become evident, replace the shoes.
Next, you can check our complete selection of safety shoes sourced from vetted European suppliers, or get in touch with our experts for a free consultation.
Safety Shoes ISI mark- What To Look For When Buying Safety Shoes
Safety shoes are one of the most important personal protective equipment for any industrial environment. They help protect workers from slips-trip- falls, punctures, cuts, falling object and electrical hazards while working in a factory or on a construction site. These shoes are made with a combination of leather, rubber, synthetic materials, and canvas that helps them provide maximum protection while you&#;re on your feet all day long.
The best industrial safety shoes are designed to keep you safe and comfortable while you&#;re working in places where there could be hazardous materials or chemicals. They come with features such as slip-resistant soles and thick uppers that help prevent slipping on slippery surfaces. Let us have a look at the minimum requirements to get Safety shoes ISI mark and compare it with EN standards.
Safety Shoes ISI mark: Classification and Markings
In India safety shoes ISI code is IS Part 2 : which specifies basic and additional (optional) requirements for safety footwear. As per this standard safety footwear is classified into two categories
Classification I : Footwear made from leather and other materials, excluding all-rubber or all-polymeric footwear
Classification II: All-rubber (i.e. entirely vulcanized) or all-polymeric (i.e. entirely moulded) footwear
Further it is named In the following types as per safety shoes IS code
- Low shoe
- Ankle boot
- Knee-height boot
- Half-knee boot
- Thigh boot
All safety shoes which are BIS certified shall comply with the minimum requirements such as tear strength, tensile properties, permeability, abrasion resistance etc as prescribed by IS .
Shoes that claim additional properties shall provide appropriate symbols for marking as below or appropriate category such as SB, S1, S2, S3, S4 or S5 (Refer table &#; 16 of IS )
RequirementMarkingPenetration resistancePConductive footwearCAntistatic footwearAElectrically insulating footwearIHeat insulation of sole complexHICold insulation of sole complexCIEnergy absorption of seat regionEWater resistanceWRMetatarsal protectionMAnkle protectionANWater penetration and water absorption (Upper)WRUCut resistanceCRResistance to hot contactHRO
EN ISO ::European Standard for Safety Shoes
EN ISO : issued by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) sets more rigorous minimum requirements for safety footwear. It specifies basic and additional (optional) requirements for safety footwear used for general purposes. It includes, for example, mechanical risks, slip resistance, thermal risks, and ergonomic behaviour. Special risks are covered by complementary job-related standards (e.g., footwear for firefighters, electrical insulating footwear, protection against chain saw injuries, protection against chemicals and molten metal splash)
EN ISO : divides safety footwear into two categories, depending on the material that the footwear was made from.
Class 1 &#; Leather Upper
It is further divided into different types based on features with following markings
SB (Safety Basic) = safety toe cap
SBP = safety toe cap + pierce resistant midsole
S1 = safety toe cap
S1P = safety toe cap + pierce resistant midsole
S2 = safety toe cap + water repellent upper
S3 = safety toe cap + pierce resistant midsole + water repellent upper
All S1, S1P, S2, S3 footwear have to have the following features:
- Anti-Static &#; Footwear with anti-static properties will prevent static build-up. Useful for areas where electrostatic discharge can have catastrophic results.
- Shock Absorbing Heel &#; Designed to absorb/reduce the shock impact on the heel produced by walking or landing. Having the boot with a shock-absorbing heel lowers the risk of potential injury significantly.
- Anti-Slip &#; Slip-Resistant footwear is specially designed to give you the most amount of grip on different surfaces. It is being tested and divided into 3 ways.
&#; SRA: Slip resistance on ceramic tile floors with sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS)
&#; SRB: Slip resistance on steel floors with glycerol
&#; SRC: Includes all characteristics of SRA + SRB - Oil & Acid Resistant Soles &#; Footwear with sole designed to resist oil and/or acid. Must-have properties when working in an area where potential spills of oil or acid could happen.
Click here to explore Class 1 safety shoes from our collection
Class 2 &#; Rubber/PVC/PU upper
&#; S4 = Class 2 footwear with a safety toe cap
&#; S5 = Class 2 footwear with a safety toe cap and a pierce resistant midsole
Additional Safety Features
- Water Repellent Upper (WRU)
- Waterproof &#; The product keeps the wearer dry in extremely wet conditions
- Metal Free &#; 100% free of metal parts. Suitable for work in security, aviation and general environments. Usually, the toe cap is made from composite material and the pierce resistant midsole of Kevlar
- Metatarsal Guard &#; New internal guard technology that adds a layer of protection to the metatarsal bone area of the wearer&#;s foot
- Heat Resistant Outsole (HRO) &#; an outsole which must be able to resist 300°C for 60 seconds
Understanding the requirements of safety shoe standards will help you in fair evaluation of products while making a purchase decision. It is important to compare products with similar specifications instead of blindly following the standard.
Things To Look Out For When You Buy Safety Shoes
If you&#;re looking for industrial-use shoes, you have many options. The best shoes for your situation will depend on your job and work requirements. Here are some considerations to keep in mind when shopping for shoes:
Material Quality: When purchasing a pair of shoes, look for one that is made with high-quality materials. The material used in these shoes will have to withstand intense use over time without falling apart on you.
Density of the Sole: Ensure the sole is of single or double density when purchasing a shoe. A double-density sole provides both great grip and durability, as well as shock absorption features to keep your feet comfortable while you&#;re on them all day.
Good Fit: Make sure your safety shoes fit you well. A good fit means that the shoes should be able to protect your feet without pinching or movement. Safety shoes with a wide toe helps to avoid pressure while wearing them ensuring maximum comfort.
Toe protection: You can choose steel toe or composite toe as your toe protection. Steel toes weigh more than composite and may be uncomfortable for long wear. But composite is more expensive than steel.
Brand Value: When you&#;re looking for safety shoes, you should buy them from a reputable brand. Experience counts: the more experience a company has in the industry, the better its options will be.
Appropriate for your Job: As explained above ISI or EN marking on safety shoe only guarantee you the minimum requirements. However, depending on the place of use, additional features are to be selected carefully. Always evaluate whether a particular model offers these and make sure it is marked on the product.
If you&#;re having trouble finding the right safety shoes for your job, don&#;t hesitate to contact us at [ protected] or call us at .
Share
For more information, please visit Model Sole Safety Shoes.
Comments
0