Safety shoes

What is a safety shoe and when is it necessary?

Safety shoes are now an integral part of protective work clothing. A protective cap made of metal or reinforced plastic is built into the front part of the shoe to protect the toes. In most cases, the upper material is made of leather or synthetic fabric. The main difference between normal work shoes and safety shoes is the built-in protective toecaps, which must comply with safety regulations.

Safety shoes protect the feet from falling or toppling heavy objects, from the penetration of pointed or sharp objects through the sole, from chemical liquids, from fire or even from machines and heavy tools that are improperly lowered quickly. They can therefore protect people from bruises, contusions, fractures, burns, chemical burns and puncture wounds to the feet.

They are used wherever these hazards are real. Many workers in industry, trade, construction, horticulture, the emergency services and the police are protected during their working hours thanks to safety footwear.

Which safety classes do we offer?

The SB safety shoe has an open heel area, which makes it much easier to put on and take off. It has a protective toe cap that can withstand a load of up to 200 joules. They are mainly used by people who work in kitchens, laboratories or hospitals.

The S1 safety shoe has a closed, protected heel area. These shoes also have a protective toe cap that can withstand a load of up to 200 joules. The recommended area of application is the logistics sector or warehouse management. However, this shoe is unsuitable for outdoor areas as it does not have adequate water protection.

The S1P safety shoe is comparable to the S1 shoe. The suffix "P" in the name indicates a penetration resistance in the sole. Otherwise, the properties are identical to the S1 shoe.

The S2 safety shoe has a non-slip, puncture-resistant sole, which is complemented by a protective toe cap and closed heel protection. The S2 version also has liquid protection. This means that the soles of the shoes are also resistant to oil and petrol.

The S3 safety shoe has all the features required for working outdoors. From increased toe protection, a puncture-resistant sole and closed heel protection to liquid protection, everything is included. This type of footwear is usually fastened with laces.

Class S5 safety shoes are reminiscent of ordinary wellington boots, which enclose the foot over the ankle up to the knee. In contrast to ordinary wellington boots, these have toe protection, a puncture-resistant sole, heel protection and complete liquid protection. This shoe offers the wearer a high level of protection, especially when working outdoors.

Safety shoes are also compared with each other by the type of protective toe cap. There are three variants here. The S safety shoe has a 200 joule tested toe cap. This means that the S safety shoe can withstand a pressure of up to 200 joules. The P safety shoe, on the other hand, has only 100 joules and the O work shoes have no toe cap.

Does SFS also offer accessories for safety shoes?

In our range you will find a wide range of products for safety shoes and their care. We offer a varied selection of insoles with different properties that can improve comfort and foot support. In addition, we also stock individual laces and heel shock absorbers that allow you to customise your shoes to ensure optimum support.

In addition, we offer a specially developed cleaning foam for safety footwear that allows you to effectively remove dirt, dust and other contaminants to improve the appearance and hygiene of your footwear. This foam is easy to apply and leaves your shoes clean and fresh.

To optimally protect the shoes and increase their durability, we recommend our high-quality waterproofing spray. This spray forms an invisible protective layer on the upper material of the shoes, protecting them from moisture, dirt and stains. By regularly applying the waterproofing spray, your shoes will stay in good condition for longer and retain their functionality.

We also offer a shoe deodorant that neutralises unpleasant odours in your safety shoes. It effectively combats bacteria and fungi that can cause odours and leaves your shoes smelling pleasant. This shoe deodorant is easy to use and ensures that your shoes remain fresh and odour-free, even after a long day at work.

We are happy to offer you not only high-quality safety shoes, but also the right care products to extend the life of your shoes and maximise your comfort. With our wide range of products, you will find everything you need to keep your safety shoes in top condition.

How to choose the right safety footwear?

When choosing safety footwear, there are a few aspects to consider to ensure it meets individual requirements:

  1. Ventilation: if the working environment has high temperatures or high humidity, good ventilation in safety footwear is important to ensure comfort and foot health. Footwear with ventilation openings or breathable materials can help to reduce perspiration and unpleasant odours.
  2. Antibacterial treatment: In work areas where hygiene is of great importance or where the foot spends long periods of time in closed shoes, antibacterial treatment of the shoes can be useful. This treatment inhibits the growth of bacteria and fungi and helps to prevent infections and odours.
  3. External influences: Depending on the working environment, safety shoes may also be protected against certain external influences. For example, shoes with water-repellent properties or chemical-resistant materials may be required to protect the foot from moisture, chemicals or other substances with which it could come into contact.
  4. Thermal protection: In environments with high temperatures, hot surfaces or welding work, safety shoes with special heat-resistant properties may be required to prevent burns or heat damage.
  5. Standards and certifications: When selecting safety footwear, it is important to ensure that it complies with the relevant standards and certifications. These standards vary by country and industry, and they ensure that the footwear fulfils certain safety standards.

By considering these aspects alongside protection and comfort, you can choose the most suitable safety footwear for your specific work requirements and thus improve your safety and health in the workplace.

What else should be considered?

Just like work equipment, safety shoes also need to be cared for regularly and carefully. After wearing, the condition of the shoes should be checked and any foreign objects that have become lodged in the shoes and could damage them should be removed. You should remove loose soles and clean your shoes regularly to prevent the growth of bacteria. If your safety shoes are too worn, you should replace them - it's about your safety


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Safety shoes: Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

  • Are safety shoes considered workwear?

    Yes, safety shoes are considered an integral part of workwear. Their main function is to protect workers' feet from potential injuries and hazards in the workplace. In numerous sectors and occupational fields, particularly in areas such as construction, industry, logistics and the trades, safety footwear is mandatory and must be worn in accordance with health and safety regulations.

  • When is it mandatory to wear safety shoes?

    The obligation to wear safety footwear applies in certain working environments and situations. It is crucial to observe the specific regulations and requirements of the respective workplace or industry to ensure that safety footwear is worn properly and in accordance with the applicable legal requirements.

  • What do the S1, S2 and S3 markings mean for safety footwear?

    The S1, S2 and S3 markings on safety footwear refer to different levels of protection in accordance with the European standard EN ISO 20345. S1 offers basic protection, S2 includes additional water-repellent properties and S3 includes a penetration-resistant midsole. The choice depends on the specific requirements of the workplace.

  • What qualifies a shoe as a safety shoe?

    Safety shoes are specially designed shoes that aim to protect the foot from potential injuries and hazards in the workplace. They are equipped with protective elements such as reinforced toe caps and non-slip soles. The exact features may vary depending on the working environment, but must comply with the applicable standards and regulations.

  • What types of safety footwear are available?

    There are various types of safety footwear available, including those with steel or composite toecaps, puncture-resistant soles, anti-static or waterproof properties and heat-resistant options. The choice depends on the specific requirements of the working environment and the applicable regulations.

  • What type of safety footwear do I need?

    The choice of suitable safety footwear depends on the working environment and the specific requirements. It is crucial to analyse the risks and comply with applicable regulations in order to select the appropriate safety footwear.

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