
Insight
Risk Assessment Template
Download SMI’s FREE risk assessment template to identify hazards and ensure workplace safety. Includes an example for office environments and guidance for various tasks.
4 minute read
Safety boot ratings show the varying levels of protection offered by work shoes.
Sourcing the right protective footwear for your team is easier when you know what each label and rating means.
Not sure of the difference between an SB safety boot and an S7 shoe? Don’t worry, we’re here to help.
Here’s our guide to what safety boot ratings mean, and how to pick the right pair for the job.
In the UK and Europe, all protective footwear must meet the same EN ISO 20345:2022+A1:2024 safety standard.
Compliant footwear protects your team and helps you stay on the right side of HSE regulations, avoiding fines or legal action.
The safety footwear standard includes essential features, with options for extra protection. All protective footwear must pass a basic slip-resistance test, but ladder grip isn’t always required.
The EN ISO 20345:2022+A1:2024 standard sets out the basic and optional requirements for safety footwear. It replaces the previous 2011 version.
Introduced in 2022, the latest standard includes new safety ratings, updated testing, and more labelling options.
Key updates include:
TOP TIP: Footwear certified to the EN ISO 20345:2011 standard remains valid until its expiry date, but newer styles may offer improved protection and performance.
Safety boot ratings help you match your team's footwear to the risks on site.
This helps keep your business compliant and protects your workforce from avoidable injuries.
Here’s a quick overview of safety boot ratings:
From basic protection to advanced safety, find the right footwear for your workforce in the SMI shop.
In addition to their main safety rating, many boots include extra safety features, shown by a two-letter code.
This labelling system takes the guesswork out of choosing your workforce’s footwear.
Your team’s safety relies on being provided with the right PPE for the job.
Now you know more about safety boot ratings, it’s time to decide which shoes best suit your employees’ needs.
Different industry workers are at risk of different hazards. For example, lightweight, slip-resistant shoes are a good choice for warehouse operatives.
Construction workers on the other hand will often need boots that provide puncture and metatarsal protection.
You need to think about:
Finding the most appropriate footwear is easier once you know how much protection your workforce needs.
Explore the SMI protective footwear range today.
With a single-source PPE supplier, finding the right fit and protection is a walk in the park.
We partner with trusted footwear brands like ROKWEAR® and V12.
Get in touch with our team and provide your workforce with protective footwear built to last.
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