Standards applicable to welding and heat-resistant shoes
To guarantee suitable protection, several European and international standards apply to this category:
- EN ISO 20345: general requirements for safety footwear, including impact protection and slip resistance.
- EN ISO 20349-1: specifics for protection against thermal hazards, molten metal splashes and welding or foundry operations.
- HI: heat insulation, essential for environments exposed to high temperatures.
- HRO: sole resistance to direct contact with hot surfaces up to 300°C.
- WG, AL, FE: markings for footwear suited to welding, resistant to aluminium or molten iron.
Meeting these standards helps ensure an informed choice and optimal safety according to the working environment.
The different models of welding and heat-resistant shoes
The range includes several types of footwear, each meeting precise needs: welding boots for foundry work, heat-resistant shoes for metalworking or reinforced boots for construction. Some models feature protection against molten metal splashes, others favour resistance to contact heat or thermal insulation. For complete protection, it is advisable to pair this footwear with heat-resistant and welding gloves, essential for trades exposed to thermal and mechanical hazards.
Maintenance advice for welding and heat-resistant shoes
Thorough maintenance extends the lifespan and effectiveness of welding and heat-resistant shoes. After each use, carefully clean the surfaces to remove metal residue, dust or splashes. Air dry them, away from any direct heat source, to avoid any deformation of the materials. Store your shoes in a dry, ventilated place. Regularly check the condition of the sole, for cracks, loss of grip or worn seams. Replace your shoes as soon as signs of advanced wear or loss of thermal protection appear. Frequent visual checks guarantee optimal everyday safety.
Specifics to consider when choosing
Choosing heat-resistant shoes or welding shoes should be based on an analysis of the hazards present in the working environment: exposure to intense heat, molten metal splashes, moisture or the need for enhanced thermal insulation. It is essential to check compatibility with other PPE, such as heat-resistant gloves, and to favour suitable materials (full-grain leather, microfibre, HRO sole). Lifespan depends on frequency of use and compliance with maintenance instructions. Select models certified to current standards to guarantee safety and comfort.