Download
Muat Turun
Choose the right shoes
When picking the right shoe size, it’s helpful to understand the UK sizing system. UK sizes are based on “barleycorns,” a unit that measures the shoe length. Each size is about one-third of an inch longer than the last, which means a UK size 6 is a bit bigger than a size 5.
It’s important to remember that UK sizes differ from those in the US or Europe. A conversion chart can help you understand the differences. Also, it’s wise to measure both feet, as one may be slightly larger than the other. Different types of shoes, like boots or sneakers, might fit differently, even if they’re the same size.
If you’re uncertain about the fit, it’s best to try shoes on first. Many stores offer easy returns, so you can exchange them if needed.
Malaysia SIRIM standard(Standards and Industrial Research Institute of Malaysia)
Sirim plays a crucial role in ensuring that safety footwear meets high standards for quality and performance. SIRIM’s safety specifications are designed to provide guidelines that manufacturers must follow to ensure their products offer the necessary protection and durability.
Safety shoes that comply with SIRIM standards are tested for various factors such as impact resistance, slip resistance, and durability. For example, shoes are tested for their ability to withstand heavy impacts, puncture resistance, and how well they perform in different work environments. The SIRIM logo on a pair of shoes indicates that they have passed these rigorous tests and are safe to use in hazardous settings, such as construction sites, factories, and other high-risk environments.
By adhering to SIRIM’s safety specifications, both manufacturers and consumers can be confident that the shoes provide the level of protection needed to reduce the risk of injury while maintaining comfort. Therefore, when choosing safety footwear, it’s essential to look for products that carry the SIRIM mark to ensure the shoes are up to standard.
"Standard" dan "Klasifikasi":
When choosing safety footwear, it’s essential to consider the different EN standards to ensure proper protection and performance. EN S1, S2, and S3 are specific safety classifications, each providing varying levels of protection depending on the work environment. S1 shoes are designed for dry, indoor settings, offering basic protection, while S2 offers additional water resistance, making them suitable for slightly more challenging environments. On the other hand, S3 footwear provides the highest level of protection, making it perfect for outdoor and wet conditions. Additionally, the SB and SBP standards focus on key safety features, such as protective toe caps and anti-static properties, enhancing overall safety. By understanding these standards, you can confidently select footwear that meets your specific needs, ensuring both comfort and reliability in your daily tasks. Therefore, always consider the standards carefully to find the best safety shoes for your work environment.


The Idea of Best Safety Shoes
Looking for the best safety shoes that balance protection and comfort? Oscar Malaysia offers top-quality footwear that is built to last and designed to keep you safe. Our boots use advanced techniques to withstand tough work environments, and all our products are SIRIM-certified. This means they meet high safety standards, so you can have confidence knowing you’re well protected on the job.
Comfort and Durability in Every Step
Oscar boots are crafted to handle the demands of tough work sites. Made with durable materials, they provide both lasting protection and all-day comfort. Whether you’re in construction, manufacturing, or another high-risk industry, you can trust that our footwear will keep you safe and comfortable.
Why Oscar is the Right Choice for You
Choosing Oscar means investing in more than just shoes; it’s about choosing long-term safety and comfort. Our safety shoes are perfect for those who need durability and confidence in their footwear. Trust Oscar for reliable, high-quality safety shoes that get the job done.
Maximize the Lifespan of Your Boots with Proper Care
Buying high-quality boots is just the first step. To get the most out of your investment, it’s important to care for them properly. Regular cleaning and correct storage are key to ensuring they last longer. By doing this, you’ll keep your boots in top condition, allowing them to provide the protection and comfort you need, day after day.
Ensiklopedia Kasut Keselamatan
Falsafah Reka Bentuk Kasut Oscar
Dalam setiap reka bentuk baru, kami memberi tumpuan kepada memastikan keselesaan dan ketahanan yang optimum. Beberapa faktor penting yang kami pertimbangkan termasuk ketinggian kasut, kawasan tempat duduk, pembinaan, dan kekuatan ikatan komponen. Dengan mempertimbangkan semua elemen ini, kami bertujuan untuk menghasilkan kasut yang tidak hanya berkualiti tinggi tetapi juga memenuhi piawaian prestasi yang ketat.
Kulit adalah bahan semula jadi yang terkenal dengan kekuatan, fleksibiliti, dan ketahanannya. Dalam pembuatan kasut keselamatan, kulit lembu biasanya digunakan dengan ketebalan 1.6 hingga 2.0 mm, sementara kulit kerbau yang lebih tebal, sekitar 1.8 hingga 2.2 mm, memberikan ketahanan ekstra. Kedua-duanya menawarkan perlindungan yang sangat baik dalam persekitaran yang mencabar.
Kelebihan Kulit
Kulit tidak hanya melindungi dari hujan dan angin, tetapi juga tahan koyakan dan bernafas. Sifat bernafasnya penting kerana ia membantu menjaga kaki tetap kering, meningkatkan keselesaan dalam pelbagai keadaan kerja. Tambahan pula, kulit boleh menyerap dan melepaskan kelembapan, yang membantu mengawal suhu dan kelembapan dalam kasut, menjaga kaki pekerja agar tetap selesa sepanjang hari.
Kemudahan dengan Kunci dan Cangkuk
Reka bentuk kasut keselamatan ini memudahkan proses mengikat dan membuka kasut dengan menggunakan kunci dan cangkuk. Pemakai boleh dengan mudah memakai atau menanggalkan kasut, menjimatkan masa dan tenaga.
Fleksibiliti untuk Kesesuaian yang Selesa
Selain itu, ciri-ciri ini memberikan fleksibiliti, membolehkan pemakai mengikat kasut mengikut keselesaan peribadi. Ini memastikan kasut lebih selesa dan sesuai dengan setiap pemakai.
Sokongan Pergelangan Kaki dan Pemeliharaan Bentuk Contra
Bahan ini membantu mengekalkan bentuk asal dan juga menyokong pergerakan semula jadi pergelangan kaki. Oleh itu, ia bukan sahaja memberikan perlindungan daripada terseliuh, tetapi juga meningkatkan kestabilan dan keselesaan secara keseluruhan.
Ankle Support and Shape Retention
This material helps maintain its original shape while also supporting the natural movement of the ankle. As a result, it not only protects against sprains but also enhances stability and comfort overall.
Fungsi Insole dan Kelebihan Bahan
Insole berfungsi sebagai "tulang belakang" kasut, dengan ketebalan yang sesuai penting untuk menyambung bahagian atas dan tapak kasut. Oscar menggunakan insole bukan tenunan atau insole fleksibel yang diperbuat daripada fabrik sintetik, yang mempunyai kelebihan tersendiri.
Kelebihan Kebolehtelapan dan Pengeringan Cepat
Selain itu, insole ini mudah menyerap kelembapan dari kaki sambil membolehkan udara masuk, mencipta iklim kaki yang selesa. Dengan itu, insole ini juga cepat kering, membolehkan ia kering hampir dalam semalam.
Standard Perlindungan Jari Kaki
Kasut keselamatan ini menyediakan perlindungan terhadap impak jari kaki sekurang-kurangnya 200 joule dan beban tekanan sekurang-kurangnya 15 kN. Tahap perlindungan ini membentuk asas keselamatan penting untuk setiap pemakai, memastikan pertahanan yang boleh dipercayai terhadap bahaya yang berpotensi di tempat kerja.
Standard Foot Protection
These safety shoes provide protection against toe impacts of at least 200 joules and pressure loads of at least 15 kN. This level of protection forms the essential safety foundation for every wearer, ensuring reliable defense against potential hazards in the workplace.
Kelebihan Insole Poliuretana
Insole poliuretana, dilaminasi dengan lapisan fabrik berus bukan tenunan, memberikan penyerapan kelembapan yang sangat baik. Bahan PU ini sangat kuat dan ringan, menawarkan kedua-dua penyerapan kejutan dan kestabilan semasa berjalan. Selain itu, ia meningkatkan keseluruhan keselesaan pemakai, menjadikannya pilihan ideal untuk kasut tahan lama.
Advantages of Polyurethane Insoles
Polyurethane insoles, laminated with a non-woven fabric brush layer, offer excellent moisture absorption. This PU material is both strong and lightweight, providing shock absorption and stability while walking. Additionally, it enhances overall comfort for the wearer, making it the ideal choice for durable footwear.
Ia adalah sistem sokongan pusat kaki. Midsole suntikan langsung memberikan penyesuaian individu kepada kaki yang bergerak. Ini menghasilkan bentuk kesesuaian yang optimum antara kaki dan kasut, serta meningkatkan kualiti pergerakan kaki. PU juga memberikan penyerapan hentakan yang tinggi pada seluruh kaki dan tumit untuk melegakan otot dan ligamen.
It serves as the central support system for the foot. The direct injection midsole offers individual adjustment to the moving foot. As a result, it creates an optimal fit between the foot and the shoe, enhancing foot movement quality. Moreover, PU provides high shock absorption across the entire foot and heel, relieving muscles and ligaments.
Tapak Getah yang Tidak Menandakan
Kasut keselamatan dengan tapak getah tradisional boleh meninggalkan kesan pada permukaan lantai dan tanah. Walau bagaimanapun, OSCAR menggunakan getah NBR, yang direka untuk tidak meninggalkan tanda, walaupun di persekitaran sensitif seperti bilik bersih syarikat elektronik. Ciri ini memastikan bahawa kasut anda kekal bersih sementara memberikan perlindungan yang boleh dipercayai.
Non-Marking Rubber Outsole
Traditional safety shoes with rubber outsoles can leave marks on floor surfaces and ground. However, OSCAR uses NBR rubber, specifically designed to leave no marks, even in sensitive environments like clean rooms in electronics companies. This feature ensures that your shoes remain clean while still providing reliable protection.
Non-Marking Rubber Outsole
Traditional safety shoes with rubber outsoles often leave marks on floors and ground. However, OSCAR uses NBR rubber, which is specifically designed to prevent any marking, even in sensitive environments like clean rooms in electronics companies. As a result, this feature ensures that your shoes stay clean while still offering reliable protection.
Ketahanan Terhadap Potongan untuk Keselamatan yang Lebih Tinggi
Ketahanan terhadap potongan pada tapak kasut menunjukkan keupayaannya untuk menahan objek tajam dan zarah, seperti logam dan kaca. Secara khusus, tapak PU, getah nitril yang dilekatkan, tapak TPU, tapak getah nitril, tapak suntikan PU/getah, dan tapak getah nitril vulkanisasi masing-masing menyediakan tahap ketahanan potongan yang tinggi. Selain itu, bahan-bahan ini meningkatkan ketahanan dan perlindungan, menawarkan keselamatan tambahan kepada pemakai di pelbagai persekitaran kerja.
Cut Resistance for Enhanced Safety
Cut resistance in the sole of the shoe indicates its ability to withstand sharp objects and particles, such as metal and glass. Specifically, PU soles, bonded nitrile rubber soles, TPU soles, nitrile rubber soles, PU/rubber injection soles, and vulcanized nitrile rubber soles each provide a high level of cut resistance. Additionally, these materials enhance durability and protection, offering extra safety to the wearer in various work environments.
Bahan Berprestasi Tinggi untuk Keselesaan Maksimum
Bahan berprestasi tinggi ini menggabungkan kelembutan dan keselesaan, sambil berkesan menyerap kelembapan untuk memastikan kaki kekal sejuk, kering, dan selesa. Selain itu, bahan ini meningkatkan peredaran udara, membolehkan pertukaran udara yang lebih efisien antara dalam dan luar kasut.
Ketahanan dan Daya Tahan yang Luar Biasa
Dengan ketahanan haus yang tinggi, bahan bukan tenunan ini direka untuk menahan keausan harian, sekaligus meningkatkan daya tahan keseluruhan. Lapisan fabrik bernafas yang lembut pada kulit turut membantu menyerap dan melepaskan peluh, meningkatkan kawalan iklim dalam kasut.
Pengalaman Selesa Sepanjang Hari
Dengan keupayaan untuk mengawal suhu dan kelembapan, bahan ini memastikan pengalaman yang segar serta selesa sepanjang hari, menjadikan setiap langkah lebih menyenangkan.
Kolar Getah Busa Terbungkus
Busa getah terbungkus pada kolar kasut, atau kawasan pergelangan kaki, bukan sahaja meningkatkan keselesaan, tetapi juga memberikan sokongan yang lembut dan padat. Dengan ini, kaki akan terasa lebih selesa sepanjang hari. Selain itu, bahan ini menyediakan kestabilan yang lebih baik, sekaligus memastikan sokongan yang teguh. Oleh itu, kasut dengan kolar getah busa terbungkus memberikan pengalaman yang lebih selamat dan menyenangkan, membolehkan pengguna bergerak dengan lebih yakin dan selesa.
The foam rubber wrapped around the shoe collar, or ankle area, not only enhances comfort but also provides soft yet firm support. As a result, your feet will feel more comfortable throughout the day. Moreover, this material offers better stability, ensuring solid support. Therefore, shoes with foam rubber-wrapped collars provide a safer and more enjoyable experience, allowing users to move with greater confidence and comfort.
Tapak Suntikan Langsung
Julat Produk: Dura Series, Dura Plus Series, Sport Series, Sport Max Series
Oscar memanfaatkan teknologi Jerman yang maju dengan menggunakan mesin DESMA, digabungkan dengan bahan yang diformulasikan khas, untuk memastikan produk yang berkualiti tinggi. Dalam proses ini, tapak suntikan langsung mempunyai pembinaan ketumpatan dua, seperti PU/PU, PU/TPU, atau PU/NBR. Sebagai permulaan, poliuretana yang dicairkan disuntik terus ke dalam acuan midsole, dengan itu mencipta ikatan tanpa sambungan dengan lapisan kedua pada tapak luar. Akibatnya, teknik ini membentuk sambungan yang kuat dan tahan lama antara bahagian atas kulit dan tapak bawah. Selain itu, pendekatan ini meningkatkan kedua-dua ketahanan dan kebolehpercayaan, akhirnya memastikan prestasi tahan lama walaupun dalam persekitaran yang mencabar.
Sebagai hasil komitmen Oscar terhadap kualiti, reka bentuk tapak suntikan langsung menawarkan pemakai gabungan kekuatan dan keselesaan, dengan itu memenuhi piawaian tinggi untuk pelbagai aplikasi. Secara ringkasnya, teknik maju ini menyumbang kepada reputasi Oscar untuk kecemerlangan dan kebolehpercayaan.
Tapak Dilekatkan Semen
Julat Produk: Angel Series, Multipurpose Series, Executive Series
Untuk tapak dilekatkan semen, khususnya dalam julat produk ini, tapak siap dibina dilekatkan pada kasut menggunakan kaedah perekat semen langsung. Melalui pendekatan ini, sambungan yang kukuh diwujudkan, menjadikannya ideal untuk aplikasi pelbagai guna. Selain itu, teknik ini memastikan prestasi yang boleh dipercayai walaupun dalam keadaan mencabar, akhirnya memberikan keyakinan kepada pemakai dalam pelbagai tetapan. Tambahan lagi, reka bentuk tapak dilekatkan semen menyumbang kepada ketahanan dan kestabilan yang dipertingkatkan, yang penting untuk kualiti yang konsisten.
Sebagai hasilnya, tapak dilekatkan semen Oscar dipercayai di pelbagai persekitaran, dengan itu memenuhi keperluan profesional yang memerlukan kasut yang boleh dipercayai. Secara ringkasnya, kaedah pembinaan ini memainkan peranan penting dalam prestasi keseluruhan dan kesesuaian julat Angel, Multipurpose, dan Executive Series.
Are you searching for safety shoes that offer both protection and comfort? Oscar safety footwear provides a perfect blend of durability and safety, making it an ideal choice for those working in demanding environments. Crafted with advanced techniques, each pair ensures long-lasting protection and comfort. Moreover, all Oscar shoes are SIRIM-certified, meeting strict safety standards, so you can trust that they will keep you safe on the job.
Why Choose Oscar Safety Footwear?
Oscar safety shoes are designed to withstand the toughest conditions while ensuring you remain comfortable throughout the day. The materials used in the construction of each pair are carefully selected for their durability and strength. Furthermore, the boots go through extensive quality checks to ensure they meet the highest standards. As a result, when you choose Oscar, you’re making an investment in footwear that will perform well and stand the test of time.
To get the most out of your Oscar safety shoes, it’s essential to maintain them properly. Regular cleaning and proper storage are key steps in keeping your footwear in top condition. Additionally, following these simple care tips will help ensure your shoes stay comfortable and durable for a longer period. As a result, they will continue to offer excellent protection throughout their lifespan.
Why Choose Oscar Safety Footwear?
In conclusion, Oscar is a brand you can trust for high-quality, long-lasting safety footwear. Our commitment to safety, comfort, and performance makes our shoes an essential tool for workers across various industries. Whether you’re in construction, manufacturing, or another high-risk field, Oscar has the perfect pair of safety shoes to keep you protected and comfortable all day long. Therefore, choosing Oscar means choosing reliable footwear that meets your needs while ensuring safety at every step.
Encyclopedia of Materials in Safety Footwear
When selecting safety footwear, understanding the materials used in their construction is crucial for making an informed decision. Different materials offer varying levels of protection, comfort, and durability. Below, we will explore the key materials commonly found in safety shoes and their benefits to ensure you are well-equipped with knowledge.
1. Leather: Durability and Comfort
Leather is a popular choice for the uppers of safety shoes. It’s not only flexible and durable but also provides excellent breathability. This means leather helps keep your feet dry and comfortable, even during long working hours. Additionally, full-grain leather is particularly strong and resistant to wear, making it ideal for tough environments.
2. Rubber: Excellent Grip and Durability
Rubber is often used for the outsoles of safety footwear. Known for its excellent slip resistance, rubber ensures a firm grip, especially in wet or slippery conditions. Furthermore, rubber is highly resistant to abrasion, contributing to its durability. Therefore, shoes with rubber outsoles offer long-lasting protection and stability in various work environments.
3. Polyurethane (PU): Lightweight and Strong
Polyurethane (PU) is commonly used for both the midsoles and outsoles in safety shoes. PU is lightweight yet strong, offering essential support and durability. Additionally, it absorbs shock to reduce foot fatigue and is resistant to chemicals and abrasions. As a result, safety footwear made from PU is perfect for industrial environments where protection and comfort are essential.
Direct Injection Outsole
Product Range: Dura Series, Dura Plus Series, Sport Series, Sport Max Series
Oscar offers a wide range of footwear, including the Dura Series, Dura Plus Series, Sport Series, and Sport Max Series. These products are made using advanced German technology and DESMA machines. Moreover, specially formulated materials are used to ensure both high quality and long-lasting performance.
Direct Injection Outsole: Durability and Comfort
The direct injection outsole process uses a two-density construction, such as PU/PU, PU/TPU, or PU/NBR. First, melted polyurethane is injected into the midsole mold, which forms a strong bond with the second layer of the outsole. As a result, this method creates a seamless connection between the upper and outsole, improving both durability and reliability. Furthermore, footwear made using this technique performs well in harsh conditions, lasting longer even under pressure.
Quality Commitment: Strength Meets Comfort
Thanks to this process, Oscar’s direct injection outsole design delivers both strength and comfort. This combination ensures the footwear meets high standards for various applications. Additionally, by focusing on quality, Oscar has built a strong reputation for providing reliable, high-performing footwear. In short, this method reinforces the company’s commitment to excellence.
Cemented Outsole
Product Range: Angel Series, Multipurpose Series, Executive Series
In the Angel, Multipurpose, and Executive Series, the cemented outsole is attached to the shoe using a direct cement adhesive method. This process creates a strong bond, making it perfect for a variety of applications. Additionally, the technique guarantees reliable performance even in tough conditions, giving wearers confidence in any setting. Moreover, the cemented outsole design enhances durability and stability, both of which are crucial for maintaining consistent quality.
Cemented Outsoles: Durability and Stability
As a result, Oscar’s cemented outsoles are trusted across various environments, meeting the needs of professionals who rely on dependable footwear. Furthermore, this construction method is key to the overall performance and comfort of the Angel, Multipurpose, and Executive Series. In short, it plays a critical role in the fit and quality of the shoes.
Steel Toe Cap: Ultimate Protection
Steel is commonly used in the toe caps and midsoles of safety footwear because it provides excellent protection against heavy impacts and punctures. However, while it offers maximum safety, steel does add extra weight. This can affect comfort, especially during long shifts. For jobs that require the highest level of protection, though, steel is still a top choice.
Composite Toe Cap
Non-metallic alternatives to steel, such as fiberglass and carbon fiber, are commonly used in safety footwear. These composite materials offer similar protection but are much lighter, ensuring comfort throughout the day. Additionally, they do not conduct heat or cold, which makes them a better option in extreme temperatures. For workers who require both protection and comfort, composite footwear is a great choice.
EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate): Cushioning and Comfort
EVA is a flexible, lightweight material often used in midsoles. It provides excellent cushioning, helping to reduce foot pressure and absorb shock. The material also keeps its shape over time, ensuring comfort lasts longer. Because of these qualities, EVA is a great choice for safety shoes, especially for jobs that require long hours of standing or walking.
Nylon and Mesh Fabrics: Breathability and Flexibility
Nylon and mesh are lightweight, breathable materials that help keep feet cool and dry. Although they are not as durable as leather, they offer flexibility and comfort. These materials are ideal for workers who need freedom of movement and don’t require heavy protection. Footwear made from nylon and mesh is especially useful in environments where breathability is key.
Gel and Memory Foam: Personalized Support
Gel and memory foam are often used in insoles to enhance comfort. Gel absorbs shock, helping to reduce foot pressure, while memory foam molds to the shape of your foot, providing custom support. These materials are found in many high-quality safety shoes, where comfort is a priority. For workers who stand or walk for long periods, gel and memory foam offer essential relief.
Kevlar: Cut and Abrasion Resistance
Kevlar is a synthetic fiber known for its excellent resistance to cuts and abrasions. Commonly used in safety footwear, it offers protection without adding extra weight. Typically, Kevlar is found in linings or midsoles, making it an ideal choice for workers in industries where cutting hazards are a concern. This material provides both flexibility and superior protection, keeping your feet safe from potential harm.
Choosing the Right Materials
ASTM Standards for Safety Shoes: Ensuring Protection and Durability
The ASTM standards for safety footwear are divided into specific categories based on the level of protection they offer. The primary ASTM standard for safety footwear is ASTM F2413, which sets the criteria for protective shoes designed to withstand workplace hazards. The shoes that meet this standard are tested for several essential factors, such as impact resistance, compression resistance, electrical hazard protection, and slip resistance.
Overview of ASTM Safety Footwear Standards
The ASTM standards for safety footwear are divided into specific categories based on the level of protection they offer. The primary ASTM standard for safety footwear is ASTM F2413, which sets the criteria for protective shoes designed to withstand workplace hazards. The shoes that meet this standard are tested for several essential factors, such as impact resistance, compression resistance, electrical hazard protection, and slip resistance.
Key ASTM F2413-18 Requirements
Impact and Compression Resistance
Safety shoes need to protect the toes from falling or rolling objects. ASTM F2413 requires shoes to resist impacts of at least 75 pounds and compression forces of at least 2,500 pounds. These rules make sure the shoes can handle heavy pressure, which is important for jobs in construction and manufacturing.
Electrical Hazard Protection
The EH rating shows that the shoes protect against electrical shocks. ASTM F2413-certified shoes help reduce the risk of electrical accidents by keeping the wearer safe from live circuits. This feature is vital for workers who deal with electricity, like electricians or machine operators.
Slip Resistance
The ASTM slip resistance test checks that safety shoes grip well on different surfaces. This helps prevent slips on slippery or uneven floors, such as wet or oily ones. ASTM tests measure the shoe’s friction to make sure it gives enough grip.
Puncture Resistance
In many workplaces, workers may face hazards such as nails or glass shards on the ground. Puncture-resistant insoles in ASTM-certified shoes help prevent these sharp objects from piercing through the sole. As a result, workers in industries like construction and manufacturing are offered essential protection in environments where sharp objects are common.
Metatarsal Protection
Additionally, for those working in high-risk environments, ASTM standards allow for metatarsal guards. These guards provide extra protection for the upper foot against falling debris or heavy impacts. Workers in construction or industries where falling objects are frequent can significantly benefit from this additional layer of protection.
ASTM Safety Shoe Markings
When safety shoes meet ASTM standards, they are clearly marked with symbols that indicate their protective features. For example, I/75 represents Impact Resistance, while C/75 indicates Compression Resistance. Additionally, the EH marking shows that the shoes are safe against electrical hazards. These markings help workers quickly identify the level of protection their shoes provide.
Conclusion: Why ASTM Standards Matter
ASTM F2413 standards are crucial for ensuring workplace safety. Shoes that meet these requirements offer the necessary protection for a variety of hazards. Whether you need protection against impacts, electrical hazards, or slippery surfaces, ASTM-certified footwear guarantees safety and comfort. By choosing shoes that meet ASTM standards, workers can confidently face the challenges of their jobs while reducing the risk of injury.
Protection Features
ANSI-certified shoes offer protection against various risks, such as impact, compression, and slips. These shoes must meet certain strength and safety tests, like resisting a 75-pound impact and a 2500-pound compression. This ensures the shoes protect the feet in challenging environments.
Durability and Comfort
ANSI standards also ensure that shoes are durable and comfortable for long shifts. The shoes must withstand wear and tear while keeping the feet safe from injuries. They also must provide comfort for workers who are on their feet all day.
ANSI Standards for Safety Footwear
The ANSI (American National Standards Institute) sets safety standards for shoes used in workplaces. These standards ensure that the shoes meet certain requirements to protect workers from different hazards. Shoes that meet ANSI standards are important in environments where safety is a top priority, like construction sites, factories, and other workplaces with high risks.
Protection Features
ANSI-certified safety shoes are tested for impact and compression resistance. This means the shoes can handle:
Impact Protection: The shoes must protect your toes from falling or rolling objects. They need to resist impacts of at least 75 pounds.
Compression Protection: The shoes should withstand a minimum of 2,500 pounds of pressure to protect against heavy objects.
These features ensure that the shoes can protect feet from serious injuries, such as broken toes or crushed feet, when working in dangerous areas.
Slip Resistance
The shoes must also provide slip resistance. This means the soles are designed to grip surfaces properly, reducing the chance of slipping. In places with wet floors, oil spills, or other slippery areas, slip-resistant shoes can prevent falls, which are common accidents in many workplaces. ANSI tests the shoes for traction to ensure they won’t slip easily.
Durability and Comfort
Safety shoes need to be strong enough to last in tough environments, but they should also be comfortable. ANSI standards require that the shoes are built to last, but also have features like padding or flexible soles to keep your feet comfortable during long work shifts. Workers who stand or walk for extended periods need shoes that don’t cause foot fatigue.
EN Safety Shoes Standards
The EN (European Norm) standards are important for ensuring safety in the workplace, especially in Europe. These standards are similar to the SIRIM standards in Malaysia. They ensure safety shoes meet certain criteria for protection, comfort, and durability in hazardous environments.
Key EN Safety Standards
The EN ISO 20345 is the primary European standard for safety footwear. It defines the necessary features that safety shoes must have. This is very similar to the SIRIM standards in Malaysia, as both ensure that shoes provide reliable protection against workplace hazards.
Protection Features Similar to SIRIM
Toe Protection: Like the SIRIM standards, EN safety shoes require toe protection. These shoes must resist impacts and compression from heavy objects, helping to prevent foot injuries.
Slip Resistance: EN standards also require slip-resistant shoes. This feature is essential for avoiding slips, especially in wet or slippery work environments. Similarly, SIRIM standards focus on this important protection.
Water Resistance: Another key requirement of EN safety shoes is water resistance. Some shoes need to be waterproof for workers in wet environments, just like SIRIM standards ensure safety in these conditions.
Additional Protection Features
Metatarsal Protection: For extra safety, EN standards include metatarsal protection to guard the upper foot from falling objects. This added protection is similar to the high-level protection that SIRIM standards offer for workers in risky industries.
Electrical Hazard Protection: EN standards also require shoes to protect workers from electrical hazards. This is crucial for workers exposed to electricity, just like SIRIM standards offer protection for similar work conditions.
Comfort and Durability
In addition to protection, EN standards also focus on comfort and durability. The shoes must be comfortable for workers who are on their feet all day, ensuring they can perform safely. Similarly, SIRIM standards prioritize the durability of shoes to ensure they last longer and withstand tough work conditions.
Safety Footwear Outsole Flexing Test & Compression Resistant Testing Method
The outsole flexing test checks the durability and flexibility of the shoe’s outsole. This test measures how well the outsole bends during normal use without cracking or breaking.
Prepare the Sample: Choose a pair of shoes that meet the required safety standards.
Testing Machine: Place the shoe in a flexing machine. The machine holds the shoe and bends the outsole back and forth at a specific angle.
Flexing Action: The shoe undergoes several flexing cycles, typically 30,000 to 60,000 cycles, simulating walking movements.
Assessment: After the test, check the outsole for cracks or damage. The outsole must pass the test without breaking or significant wear.
This test ensures the outsole can handle repeated bending without losing strength, making the shoe suitable for long-term use.
Method of Toe Cap Compression Test
The toe cap compression test checks the shoe’s toe protection against heavy objects. This test simulates the pressure from falling or rolling objects in the workplace.
Prepare the Sample: Choose a pair of shoes with a protective toe cap, made from materials like steel or composite.
Testing Machine: Place the shoe in a compression testing machine that applies force on the toe cap.
Apply Pressure: The machine gradually compresses the toe cap, usually applying 2,500 Newtons (about 250 kg) of pressure.
Assessment: Check if the toe cap maintains its shape and protects the toes under pressure.
Pass or Fail: The shoe passes if the toe cap doesn’t deform and protects the toes. If it fails, the shoe doesn’t meet safety standards.
This test ensures the toe area of the shoe offers protection against impact and compression risks in the workplace.
Slip Resistance Test Methods: SRA, SRB, and SR
Slip Resistance Tests: Ensuring Safety on Slippery Surfaces
Slip resistance tests are vital for assessing how well safety shoes perform on slippery surfaces. These tests are categorized based on the type of surface and the testing method used. The three main types of slip resistance tests are SRA, SRB, and SR. Let’s take a closer look at each:
SRA – Slip Resistance on Ceramic Tile with Soap Solution
Prepare the Sample: First, take a pair of safety shoes with a flat, clean sole.
Test Surface: Then, use a ceramic tile floor that has been treated with a soapy solution. This simulates a wet, slippery environment commonly encountered in kitchens or bathrooms.
Testing Machine: After that, place the shoe on the testing machine, which applies a specific force to the shoe while moving it across the surface of the tile.
Apply Force: Gradually increase the force applied to the shoe. The test measures the angle at which the shoe begins to slip.
Assessment: If the shoe maintains grip without slipping, it passes the test. Specifically, the shoe must meet a minimum coefficient of friction of 0.28 or higher to be deemed slip-resistant under SRA conditions.
These tests simulate conditions like wet, soapy floors, ensuring the shoes are safe in environments where water or cleaning solutions might make surfaces slippery.
SRB – Slip Resistance on Steel with Glycerol
Prepare the Sample: Begin by placing the safety shoe on a steel plate.
Test Surface: Next, treat the steel plate with glycerol. This slippery substance simulates industrial environments, such as oily or greasy floors.
Testing Machine: Place the shoe on the slip resistance testing machine, which applies force to determine when the shoe starts to slip.
Apply Force: Gradually increase the pressure on the shoe. The machine measures the point at which slipping occurs.
Assessment: To pass the SRB test, the shoe must show a coefficient of friction of 0.13 or higher.
This test is particularly useful for environments where workers face oily or greasy surfaces, such as factories or kitchens. Therefore, it helps ensure that safety shoes provide reliable grip under challenging conditions.
SR – Combined Slip Resistance Test (SRA + SRB)
Prepare the Sample: Choose safety shoes with flat, clean soles.
Test Surface: Test the shoes on both ceramic tiles with soap (SRA) and steel with glycerol (SRB).
Testing Machine: Use the same machine for both tests, applying consistent force as the shoe moves along the surfaces.
Apply Force: The machine gradually increases force, measuring the angle at which slipping begins on both surfaces.
Assessment: To pass the SR test, the shoe must meet the minimum required coefficient of friction for both SRA (0.28) and SRB (0.13) conditions.
By combining the SRA and SRB tests, this method ensures that the shoe provides reliable slip resistance in various work environments, including wet and oily surfaces. Therefore, the SR test guarantees footwear safety across diverse conditions.