Whether in the laboratory, on the construction site or doing DIY: safety shoes reliably protect you from injuries. The abbreviations S1 to S7 indicate which protective functions a model offers – from anti-static to waterproof. With EN ISO 20345:2022, the classes have been modernized, expanded and defined more clearly. Here you get an understandable overview.
The basics of EN ISO 20345:2022
EN ISO 20345 specifies throughout Europe when a shoe is considered a certified safety shoe. All models must have a protective toe cap and meet additional requirements depending on the protection class. With the standard version of 2022, the specifications for penetration protection in particular have been updated:
- Marking of the penetration protection material used (metallic / non-metallic)
- Indication of the test nail diameter (4.5 mm or 3 mm)
- More transparency for areas of application and resilience
Important: The 2011 and 2022 versions apply in parallel. Many currently available models are still certified according to the older standard.
Protection classes at a glance – S1 to S7
| Class | New labelling | Typical areas of application | Characteristics |
| S1 | S1 / S1P / S1PL / S1PS | Dry interiors, laboratory, workshop | Toe protection, anti-static, energy absorption in the heel area. Variants with P/PL/PS = penetration protection. |
| S2 | S2 / S2P / S2PL / S2PS | Care, food area, damp interiors | Like S1 + water-repellent upper (WRU). |
| S3 | S3 / S3S / S3L | Construction, Assembly, Crafts, Warehouse | Same as S2 + profiled sole + penetration protection (P = metallic 4.5 mm, PL = non-metallic 4.5 mm, PS = non-metallic 3 mm). |
| S4 | S4 | Agriculture, Industry, Wet Areas | Like S1, but completely waterproof (polymer or rubber boots). |
| S5 | S5 / S5PL / S5PS | Highly Used Environments, Construction, Industry | Such as S4+ anti-penetration. |
| S6 | S6 | Outdoor areas, permanently humid environments | Same as S2+ full waterproofing (WR through membrane). |
| S7 | S7 / S7S / S7L | Civil engineering, road construction, agriculture | Same as S3 + WR. |
Additional markings – simply explained
- CI – Cold insulation
- HRO – Heat-resistant sole up to 300°C
- WRU – Water-resistant upper material (older marking)
- WR – Permanently waterproof (new)
- ESD – Protection against electrostatic discharge
- SR – New anti-slip marking (replaces SRA/SRB/SRC)
Note: The previous slip resistance SRA, SRB and SRC are no longer valid.
Orthopaedic adjustments & individual insoles
In order for a safety shoe to remain compliant with the standard despite being adapted, it must be certified according to DGUV Rule 112-191 or EN ISO 20345:2022 Annex A. Only such models may be orthopedically modified or used with special insoles.
Practical examples – which protection class suits your job?
- Food industry: S2 or S3L – hygienic, non-slip, easy to clean
- Care & Health: S1 or S2 – light, comfortable, hygienic
- Construction & Crafts: S3 / S3L – robust, stable, durable
- Agriculture / Outdoor: S4 or S5 – waterproof and cold-insulating
- DIY & Hobby: S1P or S3L – good all-round protection in everyday life
Tip: Pay attention to the fit, sole material, cushioning and the width. Many manufacturers offer models in extra wide or orthopedically adaptable.
Lifespan, care & sustainability
High-quality safety shoes last longer and are more sustainable in use. For a long service life:
- Store shoes in a dry place – not on the heater
- Clean regularly and check soles
- Replace insoles for hygiene and cushioning
- Repairs only by certified specialist companies
Result
If you know the protection classes, you will find exactly the shoe that suits your application. Pay attention to comfort, fit and the current EN ISO 20345:2022.
Protect yourself. Love you.
