The Dromex footwear range has been dynamically developed as a solution to assist all industries and environments. From entry-level warehouse applications to specialised products, Dromex Footwear is engineered to last, providing the wearer with durable, comfortable and suitable foot protection.
UNDERSTANDING FOOTWEAR CERTIFICATIONS & STANDARDS
EN ISO 20345 is the recognized local and international standard for general purpose Safety Footwear. This standard was recently updated in June 2022 to ensure the highest level of clarity, performance and user safety.
Footwear Categories
|
Category |
Description |
|
SB |
Basic safety requirements (toe protection only) |
|
S1 |
SB + closed heal + antistatic (A) + energy absorbtion (E) + fuel/oil resistant outsole (FO) |
|
S1P |
S1 + penetration resistant midsole |
|
S2 |
S1 + water penetration and absorption resistant upper (WRA) |
|
S3 |
S2 + cleated outsole + penetration resistance |
|
S4 |
SB + waterproof footwear made from polymer/rubber + A + E + O |
|
S5 |
S4 + cleated outsole + penetration resistance |
|
S6 |
S2 + waterproof membrane (WR) |
|
S7 |
S3 + waterproof membrane (WR) |
KEY ELEMENTS OF THE ISO 20345:2022 STANDARD
Slip Resistance
– Slip resistance is now always tested as part of the footwear standard and is no longer optional
– The HSE (Health and Safety Executive) Grip test method is used,
which better reflects real-life slipping risks.
– SR slip resistance is tested on a ceramic surface using Glycerol with a specific coefficient of friction.
– Condition A (Forward heel slip) ≥ 0.31
– Condition B (Backward forepart slip) ≥ 0.36
Puncture Resistance
– Puncture resistant footwear features designated markings based on
whether they have a metallic or non-metallic midsole.
P = Midsole only
PL/L = Non-metallic midsole, tested with a 4.5mm nail
PS/S = Non-metallic midsole, tested with a 3.0mm nail
Fuel & Oil Resistance
– If a footwear product is deemed to pass the test for fuel and PIL resistance, those products are marked FO.
LEARN ABOUT LEATHERS
Dromex Footwear, and almost all safety footwear, are manufactured using varying types of leather. It is understanding the nature, variances and limitations of these leathers that will ensure you are procuring a product suitable to the environment in which you work.
Full-Grain Leather:
This is the highest quality of leather used, retaining the natural grain of the animal hide (outside grain layer). It is known for its durability, strength and ability to develop a unique coating over time.
Dromex offerings: Bolt Boot, Flash Tread, Ulteco Shoe, Ulteco Plus Boot, Nobuhle Ladies Boot, Chelsea Boots
Inner Layer or Genuine Leather:
This Leather has been sanded and refinished during the production process, making it slightly less durable than full grain but more pliable and comfortable.
Dromex Offerings: Ulteco Boot
Split Leather (PU):
Split leather is derived from the middle layers of a hide and is a versatile material that can be further split and finished with a PU layer and embossed grain to resemble higher-quality leather or used to create suede. While not as durable as full-grain leather, split leather is a cost-effective option for various products.
Dromex Offerings: Ulteco Boot
Please note the following considerations with leather:
- Maintenance:
Leather footwear requires regular maintenance, including cleaning and conditioning, to maintain its protective qualities and appearance.
- Water Resistance:
While leather offers some natural water resistance, additional waterproofing measures may be necessary for extremely wet conditions. Leather is a natural fiber that will react to water exposure and absorption and it should not be considered water resistant unless stated (S2).
- Breathability:
Leather is a breathable material, which helps to regulate temperature and manage perspiration.
- Durability:
Leather is a strong and durable material, capable of withstanding various workplace hazards.
FIT AND CARE OF YOUR DROMEX SAFETY BOOTS
While our boots are designed to last, it’s vital that you care for them to help prolong their lifespan.
FITTING:
- Try on new boots at midday for the best fit. Feet normally swell during the day.
- Walk in the new footwear to ensure it is comfortable.
- The boots should have ample room (toes should be about 12.5mm from the front). Do not expect footwear to stretch with wear.
- Make allowances for extra socks or special arch supports when buying boots and check with the manufacturer if adding inserts affects your level of protection.
- Boots should fit snugly around the heel and ankle when laced.
- Lace up boots fully during fitting.
- Note that high cut boots provide support against ankle injury.
CARE:
- Ensure your feet are washed and thoroughly dried before putting them into your boots.
- Use a clean pair of socks each day. This helps to prevent odour and other hygiene issues.
- After each wear, use a soft brush or damp cloth to clean any dirt, mud or contaminants from your boots. Wash with mild soap and warm water, be sure to rinse all soap to avoid leftover residue.
- Do not leave chemical residue on leather for prolonged periods. Clean chemical residue from leather as soon as possible, or at least at the end of each shift, by rinsing with clean water.
- Always dry your boots naturally at room temperature. Never dry your boots near an open fire or artificial heat source, as this will cause the leather to harden, shrink, crack and cause the leather to pull away from the sole.
- When taking off your boots always undo the laces first. Taking off boots that are still laced is by pushing them off with the heel of the other foot can lead to separation of the sole from the upper.
- Use polish to enhance and lengthen the lifespan of your boots.
- Always store your boots in a well-ventilated, cool place.
- Inspect footwear regularly for damage (e.g. cracks in soles, breaks in leather, or exposed toecap).
Replace worn or defective footwear, for maximum safety and protection.
Dromex provides a warranty for manufacturing defects but does not cover wear and tear caused by general use, improper use, extreme conditions, or lack of proper care. For questions regarding footwear performance, correct application or replacement needs, contact our Dromex customer support team.
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