Protection classes and standards
Protection classes, product markings and technical documentation: basic information for choosing the right product.
Understanding Protection Class
Protection class indicates which technical requirements the product meets. Consider the class code together with the standard version on the shoe's label and technical sheet.
Check the applicable standard edition and the A1:2024 amendment, if applicable, on the product label and conformity documents.
| Class | Main features |
|---|---|
| S1 | Basic safety requirements, closed heel, antistatic properties and energy absorption in the heel area. |
| S1P | In addition to S1 features, puncture resistance (P) provided by a metal midsole. |
| S1PS | In addition to S1 features, puncture resistance provided by a non-metallic midsole (PS; 3,0 mm test nail). |
| S2 | In addition to S1 features, resistance to water penetration and absorption in the upper material (WPA). |
| S3 | In addition to S2 features, puncture resistance (P) provided by a metal midsole, plus a treaded outsole. |
| S3S | In addition to S2 features, puncture resistance (PS) provided by a non-metallic midsole, plus a treaded outsole. |
Read the signs together
- WPA and WR are different. WPA refers to the water resistance of the upper material, WR refers to the water resistance of the shoe as a whole. S2 or S3 alone does not mean that the entire shoe is waterproof.
- P, PL and PS are not the same. In the 2022 edition, P denotes metallic puncture-resistant midsoles; PL and PS denote non-metallic puncture-resistant midsoles. A 4.5 mm test nail is used for PL and a 3.0 mm test nail for PS.
- The standard year is important. The P marking in the 2011 edition and the P marking in the 2022 edition must not be interpreted as having the same scope. FO is a separately specified feature in the 2022 edition; it cannot be inferred from the S classification alone.
General classification information is not a substitute for the product certificate. The protection class and additional markings should be assessed together with the product label and the technical documents for the model.
ESD — Electrostatic Discharge
ESD refers to features for controlled removal of electrostatic charge. Shoes, user and work surface are evaluated together.
ESD does not constitute insulation against electric shock. For electrical hazards, protective equipment should be selected in accordance with the risk assessment of the workplace.
Product TechnologiesTechnical Sheet and User Manual
The technical data sheet explains the materials, product construction, protection class and size range. The user manual contains instructions for the correct use, care and storage of the shoes.
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