Overview
EN ISO 22568-3:2019 (ISO 22568-3:2019) specifies requirements and test methods for metallic perforation resistant inserts used as components in PPE footwear (e.g., footwear defined in ISO 20345, ISO 20346 and ISO 20347). Prepared by ISO/TC 94 in collaboration with CEN/TC 161, the standard enables manufacturers, test laboratories and purchasers to demonstrate and verify the perforation, flexing and corrosion performance of metallic inserts before they are incorporated into safety, protective or occupational shoes.
Key topics and requirements
- Perforation resistance
- Inserts are tested according to the method in clause 5.1; reported results shall be ≥ 1 100 N (resistance to nail perforation).
- Flexing resistance
- Inserts must show no visible cracking, delamination or disintegration after 1 × 10^6 (one million) flexion cycles (see clause 5.2).
- Corrosion resistance
- Before and after the specified corrosion test (clause 5.3), inserts shall have no more than three corrosion areas, each not exceeding 2 mm in any direction.
- Design constraints
- Inserts may be flat or bent; up to three holes ≤ 3 mm are allowed, but no holes are permitted in the area between 10% and 52% of the overall length measured from the top.
- Sampling and test quantities
- The standard defines sample numbers per test (e.g., one sample for perforation on metallic material/plate, two different sizes for flexing of ready-shaped inserts) - see Table 1 in the standard.
- Measurement uncertainty
- The document requires evaluation of measurement uncertainty using accepted approaches (e.g., ISO 5725-2, ISO/IEC Guide 98-3/98-4, JCGM 100:2008).
- Marking and test reporting
- Clause 6 and clause 5 include marking and reporting requirements for traceability and conformity evidence.
Applications and users
Who uses EN ISO 22568-3:2019:
- Footwear component manufacturers (metallic insert designers and suppliers)
- Safety and work boot manufacturers integrating perforation-resistant inserts
- Independent testing laboratories and conformity assessment bodies
- Procurement specialists, safety managers and quality engineers specifying PPE footwear components
Practical applications include certifying metal inserts to meet footwear safety classes, supporting product declarations, and ensuring consistent performance for construction, manufacturing, utilities and other industries requiring puncture-resistant footwear.
Related standards
Keywords: EN ISO 22568-3:2019, ISO 22568-3, metallic perforation resistant inserts, footwear components, perforation resistance, flexing resistance, corrosion resistance, PPE footwear, test methods.