ISO 20347 Occupational Footwear Slip Resistance Testing
The ISO 20347 standard is a critical benchmark for ensuring that occupational footwear provides the necessary slip resistance to protect workers in high-risk environments. This service focuses on the rigorous testing procedures outlined by this international standard, which is essential for manufacturers and safety professionals aiming to ensure their products meet stringent requirements.
Occupational footwear plays a pivotal role in safeguarding workers from slips, trips, and falls, particularly in industries such as construction, manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare. The ISO 20347 standard ensures that the footwear has adequate slip resistance on various surfaces under different conditions, which is crucial for preventing accidents.
The testing process involves subjecting samples of occupational footwear to a series of standardized procedures designed to simulate real-world scenarios. This includes wet and dry walking conditions on controlled surfaces like glass, steel, or ceramic tiles. The objective is to determine the coefficient of friction (CoF) between the sole of the shoe and these surfaces.
The CoF value is crucial as it directly correlates with slip resistance performance. Higher values indicate better slip resistance, which enhances safety in hazardous environments. For this testing, we use high-precision instruments such as a pendulum tester or a dynamic friction test machine to measure the force required for the shoe to start slipping.
Preparation of samples is critical; it involves selecting representative pairs of shoes from each production batch and ensuring they are in good condition before undergoing testing. This ensures that the results accurately reflect the performance of the footwear as a whole. After testing, we provide detailed reports that include raw data, calculated CoF values, and graphical representations to help manufacturers understand their product’s performance.
Our laboratory adheres strictly to ISO 20347:2018 standards to ensure accurate and reliable results. We employ experienced technicians who are well-versed in the nuances of this testing method. The process also involves maintaining controlled environmental conditions, such as temperature and humidity, which can significantly impact the outcome.
By offering this service, we help clients meet regulatory requirements and improve worker safety. For instance, employers must ensure that their employees wear appropriate footwear to prevent injuries from slips and falls. This testing ensures compliance with these regulations while also enhancing workplace safety.
Why It Matters
The importance of slip resistance in occupational footwear cannot be overstated, especially in industries where workers are exposed to wet or slippery conditions. Slips and falls can lead to severe injuries, including broken bones, head trauma, and even death.
In sectors like construction and manufacturing, the risk is particularly high due to the presence of water, oils, and other substances that can make surfaces treacherous. Compliance with ISO 20347 ensures that footwear manufacturers produce products that meet these stringent safety standards, thereby protecting workers in potentially hazardous environments.
The standard not only benefits employers by reducing workplace injuries but also enhances their reputation as a safe and responsible company. Additionally, it helps in maintaining worker morale and satisfaction, knowing they are equipped with safety gear that meets international standards.
Benefits
- Enhanced Safety: Ensures workers are protected from slips, trips, and falls in hazardous environments.
- Compliance: Meets regulatory requirements for occupational safety and health standards.
- Reputation: Demonstrates a commitment to worker safety and compliance with international standards.
- Product Quality: Guarantees that the footwear meets rigorous performance criteria, enhancing product quality.
Industry Applications
| Industry | PPE Type | Tested Surface | Slip Resistance Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Construction | Steel-toe boots, safety shoes | Ceramic tiles, wet surfaces | CoF ≥ 0.6 on dry and wet surfaces |
| Manufacturing | Safety shoes, steel-toe boots | Steel plates, concrete floors | CoF ≥ 0.5 on dry and wet surfaces |
| Healthcare | Micro-suede safety shoes, steel-toe boots | Glass, wet terrazzo floors | CoF ≥ 0.5 on dry and wet surfaces |
