Overview
ISO 20345:2021/Amd 1:2024 is the latest amendment to the International Standard for personal protective equipment, specifically focusing on safety footwear. This amendment updates the third edition of ISO 20345:2021, reinforcing the requirements and testing procedures for safety footwear intended to protect workers in various industrial environments. Developed by ISO Technical Committee ISO/TC 94 and in collaboration with CEN/TC 161, it aligns with global efforts to enhance foot protection through rigorous, internationally recognized standards.
The amendment aims to ensure safety footwear meets heightened durability, protective capabilities, and comfort standards, addressing materials, design features, and performance test methods to efficiently support workplace safety.
Key Topics
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Updated Normative References
The amendment revises references to related standards such as “ISO 20344:2021+Amd.1:2024” for testing methods and refines titles of related standards including chemical protection footwear standards (EN 13832-3:2018).
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Material and Construction Enhancements
Requirements related to upper materials have been updated, including tear strength, water vapour permeability, and water vapour coefficient to ensure breathability and durability. Chromium VI content limits in leather parts are enforced to enhance chemical safety.
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Non-Metallic Toecap Testing
Clarifications specify impact-clearance values and integrity criteria to prevent sharp edges or cracks. The protocol includes provisions for perforated non-metallic toecaps.
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Water Vapour Permeability Standards
New criteria for water vapour permeability and coefficient ensure improved comfort by managing moisture, with specific percentage allowances of non-permeable materials, enhancing breathability without compromising protection.
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Performance Testing Revisions
Updates to flex resistance, bond strength of multi-layer outsoles, and scuff cap durability focus on extending footwear life under strenuous working conditions. Additional ergonomic testing requirements are introduced.
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Electrical Properties and Antistatic Footwear Guidance
Expands on electrical resistance standards for antistatic footwear, detailing usage scenarios, limitations, and maintenance recommendations to minimize electrostatic hazards in environments with flammable substances or electrical equipment.
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Scope Clarifications
This amendment explicitly excludes electrically insulating footwear covered by other standards (EN 50321-1:2018).
Applications
ISO 20345:2021/Amd 1:2024 applies to safety footwear used across a wide range of industries such as:
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Manufacturing and Industrial Plants
Providing protection against mechanical risks including impacts, compression, and punctures.
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Chemical Handling and Laboratories
Enhanced resistance to chemicals and better water vapour management protect workers in environments with chemical exposure risks.
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Construction and Mining
Improved durability and scuff resistance support safety in rough terrains and heavy-duty use.
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Electrical and Electronics Industry
Clear guidance on antistatic footwear ensures safety around electrical hazards, preventing electrostatic discharge and spark ignition.
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General Occupational Safety
Footwear meeting this standard offers general protection in any workplace requiring certified personal protective equipment.
Related Standards
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ISO 20344:2021+Amd.1:2024
Specifies test methods for safety footwear properties such as impact resistance, penetration resistance, and material testing.
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EN 13832-3:2018
Footwear protecting against chemicals, detailing requirements for prolonged chemical contact resistance.
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EN 50321-1:2018
Covers electrically insulating footwear for live working conditions, complementing ISO 20345 by addressing electrical insulation requirements.
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ISO 22568:2019
Provides toecap clearance requirements relevant to non-metallic components tested within the amendment.
Implementers, manufacturers, and safety officers are encouraged to consult these standards in conjunction with ISO 20345:2021/Amd 1:2024 to ensure comprehensive safety footwear compliance.
Keywords: ISO 20345 amendment, safety footwear standard, personal protective equipment, protective footwear testing, non-metallic toecaps, water vapour permeability, antistatic footwear, industrial safety shoes, chemical resistant footwear, workplace foot protection.