Industrial footwear should always be worn in the industrial workplace. Wearing the appropriate industrial footwear reduces the risk of your feet being crushed when using heavy lifting equipment such as pallet and fork-lift trucks, sole punctures from sharp objects, nails, screws and broken glass, chemical spills and the elements such as fire, water and extreme heat and the cold.

Some work boots also provide protection against static and electrical hazards.

Choosing the right foot protection

• Choose the right boot/shoe for the job
• Assess the risk from falling heavy objects, chemicals, heat and cold etc.
• Always ensure your boots/shoes fit comfortably – not too tight and not too loose
• Always check for damage to soles and reinforced areas prior to wearing

EN 345 – Safety Footwear for Professional Use

This European Standard specifies minimum requirements for footwear incorporating protective features designed to protect the wearer from injuries that could arise through accidents in the working sectors. They are generally fitted with toecaps designed to give protection against impact when tested at an energy level of 200J.

Areas such as the design, construction, toe protection and materials used for all parts of the footwear are considered in this standard. If a type of footwear is especially intended for a particular application (i.e. anti-static), further appropriate requirements have to be met.

The standard ensures consistency and minimum requirements are met in the following: (amongst other things)

• Impact and compression resistance for toe protection
• Thickness, tear-strength and flexing resistance of the upper
• Abrasion resistance and water vapour permeability of the linings
• Strength and resistance to fuel oil of the sole

Other relevant standards include:

EN 345-2 Safety Footwear for Professional Use Part 2. Additional specifications

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