BS EN ISO 20349-1:2017+A1:2020 - Personal Protective Equipment for Foundries and Welding

In the demanding environments of foundries and welding operations, safety is paramount. The BS EN ISO 20349-1:2017+A1:2020 standard is your comprehensive guide to ensuring that your footwear meets the rigorous requirements necessary to protect against the unique risks present in these industries.

Overview of the Standard

This standard, officially titled Personal protective equipment. Footwear protecting against risks in foundries and welding Requirements and test methods for protection against risks in foundries, is a critical document for manufacturers, safety officers, and procurement specialists who are responsible for the safety of workers in high-risk environments. Released on November 18, 2020, this document is the latest update, incorporating amendments that reflect the most current safety practices and technological advancements.

Key Features

• Standard Number: BS EN ISO 20349-1:2017+A1:2020
• Pages: 26
• ISBN: 978 0 539 04572 7
• Status: Standard

Why This Standard is Essential

Working in foundries and welding environments exposes individuals to a variety of hazards, including extreme heat, molten metal splashes, and sharp objects. The BS EN ISO 20349-1:2017+A1:2020 standard provides detailed requirements and test methods to ensure that footwear can withstand these conditions, offering maximum protection to the wearer.

Protection Against Heat and Molten Metal

The standard outlines specific criteria for footwear to resist high temperatures and molten metal splashes. This includes testing for heat insulation, resistance to molten metal penetration, and durability under extreme conditions. By adhering to these guidelines, manufacturers can produce footwear that significantly reduces the risk of burns and other heat-related injuries.

Durability and Comfort

While protection is the primary focus, the standard also emphasizes the importance of comfort and durability. Footwear that meets these standards is designed to withstand the rigors of daily use in harsh environments while providing the wearer with the comfort needed to perform their duties effectively. This includes considerations for ergonomic design, breathability, and support.

Comprehensive Testing Methods

The BS EN ISO 20349-1:2017+A1:2020 standard includes a range of test methods to evaluate the performance of protective footwear. These tests are designed to simulate real-world conditions and ensure that the footwear can provide reliable protection. Key tests include:

• Heat Resistance Tests: Assess the footwear's ability to withstand high temperatures without degrading.
• Molten Metal Splash Tests: Evaluate the footwear's resistance to penetration by molten metal.
• Durability Tests: Ensure the footwear can endure prolonged use in demanding environments.

Who Should Use This Standard?

This standard is essential for a variety of stakeholders in the foundry and welding industries, including:

• Manufacturers: To design and produce footwear that meets the highest safety standards.
• Safety Officers: To ensure that the protective equipment used in their facilities complies with the latest safety regulations.
• Procurement Specialists: To make informed decisions when purchasing protective footwear for their workforce.

Conclusion

The BS EN ISO 20349-1:2017+A1:2020 standard is an indispensable resource for anyone involved in the safety and protection of workers in foundries and welding environments. By adhering to this standard, you can ensure that your footwear provides the necessary protection against the unique risks of these industries, safeguarding the health and well-being of your workforce.

Invest in safety and quality with the BS EN ISO 20349-1:2017+A1:2020 standard, and ensure that your protective footwear meets the highest standards of performance and reliability.

BS EN ISO 20349-1:2017+A1:2020

This standard BS EN ISO 20349-1:2017+A1:2020 Personal protective equipment. Footwear protecting against risks in foundries and welding is classified in these ICS categories:

• 13.340.50 Leg and foot protection

This document specifies requirements and test methods for footwear protecting users against risks, such as those encountered in foundries.

Footwear complying with this document also offers other protection as defined in ISO 20345.

NOTE Gaiters over boot and clothing intended to provide protection to the feet and legs against molten metal are addressed by ISO 11612.