Don’t Be Caught Out – New PPE Footwear Standard Now In Force

Footwear standards for safety shoes worn for commercial use are changing from today, 8 April.

The standard EN ISO 20345 defines both the basic and additional requirements for personal protective equipment (PPE) safety shoes for commercial use.

Footwear in accordance with EN ISO 20345 is intended to protect the wearer from bumps, crushing, falling or rolling objects, from walking into sharp or pointed objects, heat or cold, and hot substances.

General Safety Footwear is classed as Category 2 and EN ISO 20347 specifies basic and additional (optional) requirements for occupational footwear that is not exposed to any mechanical risks, such as impact or compression.

Up until today, the below standards were accepted:

• EN ISO 20345:2011
• EN ISO 20347:2012
• EN ISO 20345:2022 + A1:2024
• EN ISO 20347:2022 + A1:2024

From 8 April 2026 only the 2024 standards will be accepted.

Meeting the Standards

For any product to be certified to EN ISO 20345 (or 23047), they must meet a set of basic requirements to ensure the footwear is of a professional standard. Parts of the shoe or boot that should be tested are:

• Whole footwear
• Upper
• Lining
• Tongue
• Outsole
• Insole
• Inlay sole
• Slip resistance (added in 2022 revision)

What Do the New Standards Cover?

Key Takeaways

On 8 April, PPE footwear standards are changing to the updated EN ISO 20345:2022 + A1:2024 or EN ISO 20347:2022 + A1:2024 standards.

Now the deadline has passed, the responsibility falls on employers to audit their current PPE procurement processes.

A spokesperson from HAIX, a functional footwear specialist, said: “Transitioning to the 2024 standards is not merely a regulatory hurdle, but a vital step in mitigating hidden workplace risks. By insisting on clear documentation, verifying declarations of conformity, and sourcing from transparent manufacturers, you ensure that your team is not just ‘wearing boots’ but is genuinely protected by footwear that is proven to be fit for purpose.”

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