Standards and requirements applicable to overshoes
Professional overshoes are subject to several standards according to their use:
- EN ISO 20345: requirements for safety overshoes, protection against impact and slipping.
- EN ISO 20347: covers overshoes without a protective toecap, used in medical and food environments.
- EN 13832: applicable to overshoes resistant to chemicals, for laboratories and the chemical industry.
- EN 15090: for models intended for rescue and firefighting interventions.
Meeting these standards ensures protection suited to every environment and guides product choice according to the hazards encountered.
Overview of overshoes and suitable uses by sector
The overshoes category includes several sub-types, each designed to meet precise professional constraints. Disposable models are used in food processing and the medical sector to guarantee hygiene. Non-slip overshoes are ideal for wet or slippery environments, such as kitchens or laboratories. Safety overshoes are recommended on building sites, in industry or in logistics, where protection against impact and puncture is essential. For healthcare professionals, see our dedicated page on professional medical footwear. Every type of overshoe meets specific needs, from mechanical hazard prevention to protection against chemical agents.
Maintenance and replacement advice
To guarantee the performance of overshoes, it is essential to adopt good maintenance practices. Regularly clean reusable models with suitable products and leave them to air dry in a dry place. Store them away from moisture and excessive heat. Replace overshoes as soon as signs of wear appear, such as tears, loss of grip or punctures. Disposable models should be discarded after each use to preserve hygiene and limit the risk of contamination. Frequent inspection helps ensure the safety and compliance of equipment.
Technical criteria and selection specifics
Choosing overshoes depends on several technical and contextual criteria. It is important to check compatibility with other PPE, resistance to abrasion, chemicals or moisture, and non-slip capability. For site overshoes, favour robust, easy-to-put-on models. In medical or food environments, choose antibacterial properties and strict compliance with hygiene standards. Lifespan and frequency of use should also be taken into account to guarantee optimal protection suited to every professional environment.