Safety footwear ratings explained: SB, S1, S1P, S3 and more
Updated · Workwear Global
EN ISO 20345 safety footwear always has a 200-joule toe cap. SB is the basic level; S1 adds an antistatic, closed, energy-absorbing heel; S1P adds a penetration-resistant midsole; S3 adds water resistance, a penetration-resistant midsole and a cleated outsole — making it the usual choice for construction sites.
Common ratings at a glance
The 2022 revision of EN ISO 20345 also introduced S6 and S7 (adding whole-footwear water resistance) and distinguishes midsole types (P, PL, PS). Check the label against your risk assessment.
| Code | What it adds | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| SB | 200 J toe protection | Basic protection |
| S1 | SB + closed heel, antistatic, heel energy absorption | Dry indoor environments, warehouses |
| S1P | S1 + penetration-resistant midsole | Warehousing, logistics, light trades |
| S2 | S1 + water penetration resistance | Damp indoor work, food production |
| S3 | S2 + penetration-resistant midsole + cleated outsole | Construction sites, outdoor trades |
Extra markings worth knowing
- SR — slip resistance on ceramic tile with glycerine (the 2022 slip test)
- HRO — heat-resistant outsole
- WR — water-resistant footwear
- M — metatarsal protection
- CI / HI — cold and heat insulation
Common questions
- Are composite toe caps as safe as steel?
- Yes — to carry an EN ISO 20345 marking both must withstand the same 200-joule impact test. Composite is lighter and non-metallic.