The safety shoes They are a type of industrial footwear that protects workers' feet from possible injuries caused by heavy, sharp, piercing or electrical objects.
These shoes are classified into certain groups according to the EN ISO 20345 standard, represented with an "S" and a letter or number that identifies them, these being the footwear SB, S1, S2 and S3.
Each type and group of safety footwear has its characteristics, advantages, disadvantages and must be used for specific occupations depending on the type of work activity and the level of risk to which the worker is exposed.
Below, we will explain the different types of safety shoes available, their characteristics and when you should use them.
SB Safety Shoes
SB safety shoes are a type of footwear that meets the minimum protection requirements (basic security) for workers who perform activities that involve risks to their feet.
Among the main features of SB safety shoes we can highlight:
- Impact resistance: They have a reinforced steel, aluminum or plastic toe cap, which can withstand an impact of at least 200 joules.
- Slip resistance: Also, these shoes have a non-slip sole that improves grip on the ground and prevents slipping or falling.
- Comfort and ergonomicsSB safety shoes also offer comfort and ergonomics to workers, as they adapt to the shape of the foot and facilitate perspiration.
In addition, they have anatomical insoles, interior padding and adjustable closure systems, such as laces, Velcro or zippers.
Sectors and jobs you can do with SB footwear
SB safety shoes are an option Ideal for people who do not work under specific risks requiring greater protection.
For example, they can be used in warehouses, workshops, offices or shops. These shoes are lighter and more comfortable than other types of safety footwear, which improves the mobility and comfort of the worker.
However, SB safety shoes are not sufficient to protect feet in situations where there is a risk of cuts, punctures, burns, electric shocks or exposure to chemicals.
In these cases, safety shoes with other categories such as S1, S2 and S3 should be used, which offer greater resistance and insulation.
S1 safety shoes
S1 safety shoes are a type of safety footwear that are Aimed at protecting workers' feet in dry environments.
These shoes have the following characteristics:
- Reinforced toe cap: This tip resists impacts of up to 200 joules, preventing fingers from being crushed.
- Antistatic sole: This dissipates static electricity and prevents electric shocks.
- Non-slip sole: which offers good adhesion on smooth or wet surfaces, reducing the risk of falls or slips.
- Chemical resistant sole: This prevents deterioration or corrosion of the footwear.
- Energy absorption in the heel: cushions impact and relieves pressure on the foot.
Sectors and jobs you can do with S1 footwear
S1 safety shoes are suitable for working in sectors such as industry, construction, logistics, transport, hospitality or commerce, where basic foot protection against knocks, cuts or burns is required.
However, these shoes are not suitable for working in wet environments, where greater waterproofing of the footwear is required, or in environments with a risk of sole perforation, where greater resistance to penetration is required.
S2 safety shoes
S2 safety shoes are a type of work footwear that offers protection against mechanical, electrical, thermal and chemical risks, and are primarily designed to work in humid environments.
Among the features that stand out in S2 safety shoes are:
- Steel or composite toe cap that resists impacts of up to 200 joules (same as S1 footwear).
- Non-slip sole prevents slipping and falling on slippery surfaces.
- Antistatic insole that dissipates static electricity and prevents electric shocks.
- Closed heel that supports the foot and prevents twists or sprains.
- Padded upper that cushions impacts and friction with objects or surfaces.
- Breathable material that facilitates ventilation and foot comfort.
Additionally, these additional properties include water resistance for at least 60 minutes, energy absorption in the heel, and chemical resistance.
Sectors and jobs you can do with S2 footwear
This type of shoes is recommended for workers who work in humid sectors and environments, such as outdoor construction, cargo transportation, among others.
In addition, this type of footwear provides protection against construction or mechanical risks, provided that specific protection against heat, cold and electricity is not required.
S3 safety shoes
S3 safety shoes are a type of footwear that has all the characteristics of the S2 category, but also, offers superior resistance in the sole to prevent punctures.
S3 safety footwear is therefore the most complete and versatile of all types of safety footwear, offering complete foot protection in different working conditions.
Sectors and jobs you can do with S3 footwear
S3 safety shoes are suitable for workers who carry out activities in sectors such as construction, industry, agriculture, logistics, hospitality or transport.
These shoes are much more durable than the SB, S1 and S2, as in addition to having all their safety features, they also protect the feet from possible cuts, burns, electric shocks or exposure to hazardous substances.
Differences between safety shoe types SB, S1, S2 and S3
Below we summarize the main differences and characteristics of each of the groups of safety footwear:
| Characteristics | SB Footwear | S1 Footwear | S2 Footwear | S3 Footwear |
| Reinforced tip | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Non-slip sole | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Ergonomic insoles | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Protection against chemicals | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Antistatic sole (electricity) | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Energy absorption in the heel | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Waterproofing against water | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Puncture resistance | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
As you can see, the types of safety footwear range from less to more resistant, where the following differences can be highlighted in each one:
- SB footwear only has impact and slip resistant toe caps, without any other additional protection.
- S1 footwear has an impact-resistant toe cap, anti-slip and anti-static sole, but does not have spike or water protection.
- S2 footwear has the same features as S1, but is also a type of waterproof footwear.
- S3 footwear is similar to S2, but is designed to offer greater resistance to punctures and cuts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below we will answer some of the most common questions our clients usually ask us:
What is the EN ISO 20345 standard?
The EN ISO 20345 standard is the European regulations on safety footwear.
Normally, for safety footwear to be certified according to the EN ISO 20345 standard, it must have the necessary safety features to belong to any of the safety footwear groups.
How many kilograms of impact can safety shoes withstand?
As we have mentioned, safety shoes can receive up to 200 joules of impact.
That is to say, by expressing this in kilograms, it would be equivalent to a weight of 20 kg of an object falling from a height of 1.5 meters.
Why are safety shoes so important?
Safety shoes are important because they help prevent workplace accidents that can cause serious or permanent foot injuries.
They also contribute to improving the health and well-being of workers by reducing fatigue and stress. It is therefore essential to choose the right safety footwear for each activity and to follow the rules for the prevention of occupational risks.
Where can I buy Safety Shoes?
As you can see, it is of utmost importance to choose the safety footwear suitable for each job and keep it in good condition to ensure the user's protection and comfort.
Therefore, in Mr. Zapas, you can find a wide range of safety shoes, both for men and women, with different models and quality brands. ✅
And if you wish, you can complement your safety footwear with other personal protective equipment such as gloves, helmets or glasses.
Safety shoes, whatever the type, are an investment in your health and safety at work. So,Don't hesitate to check out our online catalogue to choose the footwear that best suits your needs! 😉