Safety footwear: S1, S1P, S2 and S3 explained for professionals

Safety footwear protects your feet against falling objects, sole penetration, slipping and sometimes water or cold. The codes S1, S1P, S2 and S3 give an indication of the protection a shoe offers. In this blog we explain them in outline, so you choose a shoe that suits your workplace.

👷 This is an explanation in outline and not legal advice. Which protection is needed follows from your risk inventory and the requirements of your client or employer. In doubt, consult your own VCA or safety officer. You can find more information in our blog on choosing safety shoes.

What do the codes mean?

Safety shoes are tested according to the European standard for safety footwear (EN ISO 20345). The codes indicate which properties a shoe has:

• S1: closed heel, antistatic, energy absorption in the heel and an oil- and fuel-resistant sole. Suitable for dry, clean workplaces.
• S1P: as S1, but with a penetration-resistant midsole. Useful where you can step on nails or sharp objects.
• S2: as S1, with water penetration and absorption resistance of the upper.
• S3: as S2, but with a penetration-resistant midsole and a cleated sole. Often chosen for building sites and outdoor work.
• S5: as S3, in a waterproof rubber or polymer version, for example for wet environments.
• O1: work shoe under a separate standard (EN ISO 20347) without toe protection; suitable where no heavy objects can fall.

Check the marking in the shoe and the accompanying instructions; the standard and codes can be supplemented with extra properties for specific uses.

Which shoe suits which workplace?

• Dry indoor workplace or workshop: O1 work shoe or S1 safety shoe.
• Building site or environment where you can step on sharp objects: S1P safety shoe, low leather S3 safety shoe or high leather S3 safety boot.
• Wet work or outdoors: S5 rubber safety boot for a fully waterproof solution.
• Warm weather and light conditions: S1 leather safety sandal can be an option if your risk inventory allows it.
• Comfort: Flexgel insoles for extra cushioning and support on long days on site.

You can find more options at safety shoe.

What to look for when choosing

• Fit and size: the shoe should not pinch and should leave enough room for your toes. Try shoes on at the end of the day.
• Sole: slip resistance and tread suited to the ground.
• Material: leather is robust and breathable; rubber or plastic is waterproof.
• Height: a high shoe gives extra ankle support on uneven ground.
• Care: cleaning and drying extend service life. Replace shoes that are damaged or no longer close properly.

Additional PPE

Safety shoes belong in a set with other PPE. Think of a safety helmet, cut-resistant gloves, impact-protection goggles and Raimondi knee pads with gel. You can read more in our blog on safe working on the construction site and our blog on thermal work underwear.

Frequently asked questions

Is S3 always better than S1?

Not always. S3 offers more protection, but is not necessary for every workplace. Choose on the basis of your risk inventory.

How long do safety shoes last?

That depends on use, care and conditions. Check regularly for wear, loose soles or damaged toe caps.

Must I wear safety shoes?

That follows from your risk inventory and agreements with your employer or client.

Do DIYers benefit from safety shoes too?

Yes, for heavy or risky work. A good shoe prevents injury from falling objects or slipping.

Where can I find more information?

Read our blog on choosing safety shoes for practical tips.

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Read also: Safety helmets for professionals: choosing and using them professionally

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Where can you find everything for this job?

At Saniso, the online store for DIYers and professionals, you will find tools, materials and personal protective equipment for your job.

• Browse our construction tools and our workwear and safety.
• Create a customer account and order easily.
• Working on a bigger project or want to hand over the job? Request a project quote.
• Book a showroom visit, at least 24 hours in advance.
• Not sure which material suits your job? Get in touch with us.

In doubt about the approach? Feel free to call in a professional.

Saniso – Build your home with Saniso.