New standards for safety footwear 2026

What does EN ISO 20345:2022 imply?

For many years, EN ISO 20345:2011 was the standard for safety footwear, but from 2026 onwards, the new EN ISO 20345:2022 will come into effect. This standard introduces new requirements in terms of safety, sustainability, and labeling. The biggest change is in the categorization of safety footwear: from the familiar S1-S5 categories to a more comprehensive classification from S1 to S7.

The new S classification

Each new class includes specific technical and practical requirements for shock absorption, slip resistance, penetration resistance, and comfort, among other things. In addition, the testing methods have also been tightened to ensure that employers comply with the latest safety guidelines.

Overview of S1-S7 according to EN ISO 20345:2022

• S1 models have a safety toe cap, closed heel, are antistatic, and have an energy-absorbing heel, but do not offer water or penetration protection.
• S2 models build on this by offering additional resistance to water penetration and absorption in the upper material.
• S3 models combine these properties with a penetration-resistant sole and tread, making them ideal for workplaces with nails and sharp objects.
• S4 and S5 models are made entirely of plastic, PU, or rubber: S4 models are waterproof and have a safety toe cap. S5 models feature a penetration-resistant sole and are generally calf- or knee-high boots.
• S6 and S7 models are the most comprehensive variant and combine all the properties of S2 and S3, with additional requirements for waterproofing.

Please Note: Keep in mind that the new S codes partially replace the old symbols – important for future purchasing and PPE policy.

New rules for puncture protection: better protection against sharp objects

A nail piercing through your sole is a risk you would rather avoid. The new standard therefore makes a clearer distinction between different types of anti-puncture soles:

• P stands for a traditional metal midsole
• PL stands for a non-metal variant that has been tested with a 4.5 mm nail
• PS stands for a non-metal sole that goes one step further and is tested with an even thinner, 3 mm nail.

A shoe with a PS classification offers better protection against glass, nails, and other sharp materials, as many sharp objects are smaller than 4.5 mm.

New slip resistance category: SR replaces SRC

The familiar slip classifications SRA, SRB, and SR are being phased out completely and replaced by a new category:

• SR, which is tested on ceramic tiles with glycerol—an extremely slippery test surface.

Because this test is more rigorous than previous methods, shoes with an SR label offer demonstrably better grip on wet, greasy, or otherwise slippery floors.

Additional markings for extra protection

The revised standard introduces several additional symbols to more clearly indicate specific safety features:

• LG – provides ladder grip and increases stability when using ladders
• WPA – features a water-repellent upper designed specifically to repel water
• SC – Additional protection of the toe against abrasion through the Scuff Cap test
• AN – Protection for the ankle area
• CI/HI – Indicates that the shoe provides cold or heat insulation

Why this change?

Poorly fitting or unsuitable safety shoes increase the risk of injury. The new EN ISO 20345:2022 standard places greater emphasis on realistic testing methods and clearer classifications. In addition, there is also more focus on proper fit and accurate sizing, as this is essential for reliable protection.

Manufacturers must also label their products more clearly, and various tests have been further tightened. Durability is also given greater weight: if shoes perform poorly within six months, they will be rejected more quickly.

What does this mean for your organization?

It is important to consider not only the correct S class, but also the additional symbols. Every job has its own risks: a warehouse worker has different needs than a construction professional or a technician who works with heat. Regular evaluation of the PPE policy therefore remains essential.

Checklist for 2026:

• Check your current PPE stock: will these shoes still be valid after 2026?
• Clearly identify the risks for each workplace
• Inform employees about symbols, fit, and the importance of replacement.

Do you need advice on how to best support your customers in choosing safety shoes that comply with the new standard? Feel free to contact us. We are happy to help you find suitable models and standards so that your customers can work safely and in accordance with the latest requirements.