EN ISO 20344:2011

SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-marec-2012
1DGRPHãþD
SIST EN ISO 20344:2004
SIST EN ISO 20344:2004/A1:2007
SIST EN ISO 20344:2004/AC:2006
Osebna varovalna oprema - Metode preskušanja obutve (ISO 20344:2011)
PPersonal protective equipment - Test methods for footwear (ISO 20344:2011)
Persönliche Schutzausrüstung - Prüfverfahren für Schuhe (ISO 20344:2011)
Équipement de protection individuelle - Méthodes d'essais pour les chaussures (ISO
20344:2011)
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: EN ISO 20344:2011
ICS:
13.340.50 Varovanje nog in stopal Leg and foot protection
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.

EUROPEAN STANDARD
EN ISO 20344
NORME EUROPÉENNE
EUROPÄISCHE NORM
December 2011
ICS 13.340.50 Supersedes EN ISO 20344:2004
English Version
Personal protective equipment - Test methods for footwear (ISO
20344:2011)
Équipement de protection individuelle - Méthodes d'essai Persönliche Schutzausrüstung - Prüfverfahren für Schuhe
pour les chaussures (ISO 20344:2011) (ISO 20344:2011)
This European Standard was approved by CEN on 30 November 2011.

CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this European
Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration. Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references concerning such national
standards may be obtained on application to the CEN-CENELEC Management Centre or to any CEN member.

This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language made by translation
under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the CEN-CENELEC Management Centre has the same
status as the official versions.

CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia,
Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland,
Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and United Kingdom.

EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION
COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION

EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG

Management Centre: Avenue Marnix 17, B-1000 Brussels
© 2011 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. EN ISO 20344:2011: E
worldwide for CEN national Members.

Contents Page
Foreword .3
Annex ZA (informative) Relationship between this European Standard and the Essential
Requirements of EU Directive 89/686/EEC .4

Foreword
This document (EN ISO 20344:2011) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 161 “Foot and leg
protectors”, the secretariat of which is held by BSI, in collaboration with Technical Committee ISO/TC 94
"Personal safety - Protective clothing and equipment".
This European Standard shall be given the status of a national standard, either by publication of an identical
text or by endorsement, at the latest by June 2012, and conflicting national standards shall be withdrawn at
the latest by June 2012.
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of patent
rights. CEN [and/or CENELEC] shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
This document supersedes EN ISO 20344:2004.
This document has been prepared under a mandate given to CEN by the European Commission and the
European Free Trade Association, and supports essential requirements of EU Directive.
For relationship with EU Directive, see informative Annex ZA, which is an integral part of this document.
According to the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations, the national standards organizations of the following
countries are bound to implement this European Standard: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech
Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia,
Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain,
Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.
Annex ZA
(informative)
Relationship between this European Standard and the Essential
Requirements of EU Directive 89/686/EEC
This European Standard has been prepared under a mandate given to CEN by the European Commission
and the European Free Trade Association to provide one means of conforming to Essential Requirements of
the EU Directive 89/686/EEC on PPE.
Once this standard is cited in the Official Journal of the European Union under that Directive and has been
implemented as a national standard in at least one Member State, compliance with the clauses of this
standard, together with the relevant requirements given in the product standards, confers within the limits of
the scope of those standards, a presumption of conformity with the corresponding Essential Requirements of
that Directive and associated EFTA regulations.
WARNING — Other requirements and other EU Directives may be applicable to the product(s) falling
within the scope of this standard.

INTERNATIONAL ISO
STANDARD 20344
Second edition
2011-12-01
Personal protective equipment — Test
methods for footwear
Équipement de protection individuelle — Méthodes d’essais pour les
chaussures
Reference number
ISO 20344:2011(E)
©
ISO 2011
ISO 20344:2011(E)
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, no part of this publication may be reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means,
electronic or mechanical, including photocopying and microfilm, without permission in writing from either ISO at the address below or ISO’s
member body in the country of the requester.
ISO copyright office
Case postale 56 • CH-1211 Geneva 20
Tel. + 41 22 749 01 11
Fax + 41 22 749 09 47
E-mail copyright@iso.org
Web www.iso.org
Published in Switzerland
ii © ISO 2011 – All rights reserved

ISO 20344:2011(E)
Contents Page
Foreword . v
1 Scope . 1
2 Normative references . 1
3 Terms and definitions . 2
4 Sampling and conditioning . 2
4.1 Sampling . 2
4.2 Conditioning . 2
4.3 Prerequisites on the testing procedure . 2
5 Test methods for whole footwear . 5
5.1 Specific ergonomic features . 5
5.2 Determination of upper/outsole and sole interlayer bond strength . 6
5.3 Determination of internal toecap length . 11
5.4 Determination of impact resistance .12
5.5 Determination of compression resistance .15
5.6 Behaviour of toecaps and inserts (thermal and chemical) .17
5.7 Determination of leakproofness .18
5.8 Determination of the dimensional conformity of inserts and the penetration resistance
of the sole .18
5.9 Determination of the flex resistance of penetration-resistant inserts .22
5.10 Determination of electrical resistance .22
5.11 Determination of footwear slip resistance .23
5.12 Determination of insulation against heat .26
5.13 Determination of insulation against cold .28
5.14 Determination of energy absorption of the seat region .29
5.15 Determination of resistance to water for whole footwear .31
5.16 Determination of impact resistance of a metatarsal protective device .36
5.17 Determination of the shock absorption capacity of ankle protection materials incorporated into
the upper .40
6 Test methods for upper, lining and tongue .42
6.1 Determination of thickness of upper .42
6.2 Measurement of the height of the upper .42
6.3 Determination of tear strength of the upper, lining and/or tongue .43
6.4 Determination of the tensile properties of the upper material .43
6.5 Determination of upper flexing resistance .44
6.6 Determination of water vapour permeability (WVP) .47
6.7 Determination of water vapour absorption (WVA) .51
6.8 Determination of water vapour coefficient .54
6.9 Determination of pH value .54
6.10 Determination of resistance to hydrolysis of upper .54
6.11 Determination of chromium VI content .54
6.12 Determination of abrasion resistance of lining and insock .54
6.13 Determination of water penetration and water absorption for upper.57
6.14 Determination of resistance of upper to cutting .59
7 Test methods for insole and insock .59
7.1 Determination of insole thickness .59
7.2 Determination of water absorption and desorption of insole and insock .59
7.3 Determination of abrasion resistance of insole .62
8 Test methods for outsole .64
8.1 Determination of outsole thickness .64
8.2 Determination of tear strength of outsole .65
8.3 Determination of outsole abrasion resistance .65
8.4 Determination of flexing resistance of outsole .65
ISO 20344:2011(E)
8.5 Determination of resistance to hydrolysis of outsole .70
8.6 Determination of resistance to fuel oil .70
8.7 Determination of resistance to hot contact .71
Annex A (normative) Procedure for plasticine calibration .74
Annex B (normative) Assessment of footwear by the laboratory during testing of thermal behaviour .76
Annex C (informative) Footwear sizes .77
Bibliography .78
iv © ISO 2011 – All rights reserved

ISO 20344:2011(E)
Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards bodies
(ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out through ISO
technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical committee has been
established has the right to be represented on that committee. International organizations, governmental and
non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work. ISO collaborates closely with the International
Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of electrotechnical standardization.
International Standards are drafted in accordance with the rules given in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
The main task of technical committees is to prepare International Standards. Draft International Standards
adopted by the technical committees are circulated to the member bodies for voting. Publication as an
International Standard requires approval by at least 75 % of the member bodies casting a vote.
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of patent
rights. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
ISO 20344 was prepared by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) Technical Committee CEN/TC
161, Foot and leg protectors, in collaboration with ISO Technical Committee ISO/TC 94, Personal safety —
Protective clothing and equipment, Subcommittee SC 3, Foot protection, in accordance with the Agreement on
technical cooperation between ISO and CEN (Vienna Agreement).
This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition (ISO 20344:2004), which has been technically
revised. It also incorporates the Technical Corrigendum ISO 20344:2004/Cor.1:2005 and the Amendment
ISO 20344:2004/Amd.1:2007.
The main differences between this edition and the 2004 edition are:
— Annex A, inclusion of a new procedure for plasticine calibration;
— Annex C, inclusion of a new table for footwear sizing;
— 4.1, Table 1, clarification of the method for sampling;
— 5.1, clarification on testing of ergonomic features;
— 5.4 and 5.5, inclusion of a reference to EN 12568:2010;
— 5.8.3, different test methods for anti-penetration insoles;
— 5.15.2, inclusion of a new test method for water resistance;
— 6.4.2 and 6.5.2, inclusion of test methods (due to the withdrawal of ISO 2023);
— 6.11, replacement of the method for determination of chromium VI by a reference to ISO 17075;
— withdrawal of 5.11, “Determination of the electrical insulation”.
INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO 20344:2011(E)
Personal protective equipment — Test methods for footwear
1 Scope
This International Standard specifies methods for testing footwear designed as personal protective equipment.
2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document. For dated
references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document
(including any amendments) applies.
ISO 34-1:2010, Rubber, vulcanised or thermoplastic — Determination of tear strength — Part 1: Trouser, angle
and crescent test pieces
ISO 868, Plastics and ebonite — Determination of indentation hardness by means of a durometer (Shore
hardness) (ISO 868:2003)
ISO 1817:2011, Rubber, vulcanised — Determination of the effect of liquids
ISO 3290-1, Rolling bearings — Balls — Dimensions and tolerances
ISO 3376, Leather — Physical and mechanical tests — Determination of tensile strength and percentage
extension
ISO 3377-2, Leather — Physical and mechanical tests — Determination of tear load — Part 2: Double edge
tear
ISO 4045, Leather — Determination of pH
ISO 4643:1992, Moulded plastic footwear — Lined or unlined poly (vinyl chloride) boots for general industrial
use — Specification
ISO 4649:2010, Rubber, vulcanized or thermoplastic — Determination of abrasion resistance using a rotating
cylindrical drum device
ISO 4674-1:2003, Rubber- or plastics-coated fabrics — Determination of tear resistance — Part 1: Constant
rate of tear methods
ISO 5423:1992, Moulded plastic footwear — Lined or unlined polyurethane boots for general industrial use —
Specification
ISO 13287, Personal protective equipment — Footwear — Test method for slip resistance
ISO 17075, Leather — Chemical analysis — Determination of chromium VI
ISO 20345:2011, Personal protective equipment — Safety footwear
ISO 20347, Personal protective equipment — Occupational footwear
ISO 23529:2010, Rubber — General procedures for preparing and conditioning test pieces for physical test
methods
EN 388:2003, Protective gloves against mechanical risks
EN 12568:2010, Foot and leg protectors — Requirements and test methods for toecaps and penetration-
resistant inserts
ISO 20344:2011(E)
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in ISO 20345 and ISO 20347 apply.
4 Sampling and conditioning
4.1 Sampling
The minimum number of samples to be tested in order to check compliance with the requirements specified in
ISO 20345, ISO 20347 and any specific job-related footwear standards (e.g. ISO 17249, Safety footwear with
resistance to chain saw cutting), together with the minimum number of test pieces taken from each sample,
shall be in accordance with Table 1.
Wherever possible and necessary to ensure the essential safety requirements, test pieces shall be taken from
the whole footwear. This paragraph is applicable to all of Table 1.
NOTE 1 If it is not possible to obtain a large enough test piece from the footwear, then a sample of the material from
which the component has been manufactured may be used instead. This should be noted in the test report.
NOTE 2 Footwear sizes are defined in Annex C.
Where samples are required from each of three sizes, these shall comprise the smallest, middle and largest
size of the footwear under test [indicated as (SML) in Table 1].
4.2 Conditioning
All test pieces shall be conditioned in a standard atmosphere of (23 ± 2) °C and (50 ± 5) % RH for a minimum
of 48 h before testing, unless otherwise stated in the test method.
The maximum time which shall elapse between removal from the conditioning atmosphere and the start of
testing shall not be greater than 10 min, unless otherwise stated in the test method.
4.3 Prerequisites on the testing procedure
When several test pieces are tested, at least the worst results per size shall to be reported.
Footwear shall be tested as it is intended to be used, unless otherwise specified in the test method. For
instance, if there is a removable insock, it shall be left in place to perform the tests.
The uncertainty of measurement for each test method described in this International Standard may be assessed.
One of the two following approaches should be used:
— a statistical method, e.g. that given in ISO 5725-2;
— a mathematical method, e.g. that given in ENV 13005.
2 © ISO 2011 – All rights reserved

ISO 20344:2011(E)
Table 1 — Minimum number of samples and test pieces
Test Type and
Property under test Type and
only on Subclause number of test
(B = basic requirement, number
the final reference pieces per
A = additional requirement) of samples
footwear sample
Specific ergonomic features B yes 5.1 1 pair of shoes 1 pair of shoes
in 3 sizes
Upper/outsole and sole interlayer B yes 5.2 1 shoe from 1 test piece
bond strength each of 3 sizes taken from
(SML) the shoe
Internal toecap length B yes 5.3 1 pair of shoes 1 pair of toecaps
from each of
3 sizes (SML)
Impact resistance B yes 5.4 1 pair of shoes 1 pair of shoes
from each of
3 sizes (SML)
Compression resistance B yes 5.5 1 pair of shoes 1 pair of shoes
from each of
3 sizes (SML)
Behaviour of toecaps and inserts B no 5.6
See Tables 3 and 4
(thermal and chemical)
Leakproofness B yes 5.7 2 shoes from 1 shoe
different sizes
Dimensional conformity and A yes 5.8 1 pair of shoes 1 pair of shoes
penetration resistance of inserts from each of
3 sizes (SML)
Flex resistance of penetration- A no 5.9 1 pair of insert 1 pair of inserts
Whole resistant insert from each of
footwear 3 sizes (SML)
Electrical resistance A yes 5.10 1 pair of shoes 1 pair of shoes
from each of
3 sizes (SML)
Slip resistance B yes 5.11 1 shoe from 1 shoe
each of 3 sizes
(SML)
Insulation against heat A yes 5.12 2 shoes from 1 shoe
different sizes
Insulation against cold A yes 5.13 2 shoes from 1 shoe
different sizes
Energy absorption of seat region A yes 5.14 1 pair of shoes 1 pair of shoes
from each of
3 sizes (SML)
Water resistance A yes 5.15 3 pairs of shoes 1 pair of shoes
(minimum
2 different sizes)
Impact resistance metatarsal A yes 5.16 1 pair of shoes 1 pair of shoes
protective device from each of
3 sizes (SML)
Ankle protection A yes 5.17 1 shoe from 2 test pieces
each of 3 sizes
(SML)
ISO 20344:2011(E)
Table 1 (continued)
Test Type and
Property under test Type and
only on Subclause number of test
(B = basic requirement, number
the final reference pieces per
A = additional requirement) of samples
footwear sample
Thickness B yes 6.1 1 shoe from 1 test piece
each of 3 sizes
(SML)
Height of the upper B yes 6.2 1 shoe from 1 shoe
each of 3 sizes
(SML)
Tear strength B yes 6.3 shoes from each 3 test pieces
of 3 sizes (SML) per size
Tensile properties B yes 6.4 shoes from each 3 test pieces
of 3 sizes (SML) per size
Flexing resistance B yes 6.5 1 shoe from 1 test piece
each of 3 sizes
(SML)
Water vapour permeability B yes 6.6 1 shoe from 1 test piece
each of 3 sizes
(SML)
Upper lining
Water vapour absorption B yes 6.7 1 shoe from 1 test piece
and tongue
each of 3 sizes
(SML)
pH value B no 6.9 Each leather 2 test pieces
Hydrolysis B yes 6.10 1 shoe from 1 test piece
each of 3 sizes
(SML)
Chromium VI content B no 6.11 Each leather 2 test pieces
Abrasion resistance of lining B no 6.12 shoes or 6 test pieces,
materials wet
6 test pieces, dry
Water penetration and water A no 6.13 shoes or 3 test pieces
absorption materials
Cut resistance A no 6.14 1 pair of shoes 2 test pieces
from each of
3 sizes (SML)
or material
Thickness of insole B no 7.1 1 shoe from 1 test piece
each of 3 sizes
or material
pH value B no 6.9 Each leather 2 test pieces
Water absorption and desorption B no 7.2 1 shoe from 1 test piece
each of 3 sizes
or material
Insole and
Abrasion resistance of insole B no 7.3 1 shoe from 1 test piece
Insock
each of 3 sizes
or material
Chromium VI content B no 6.11 Each leather 2 test pieces
Abrasion resistance of insock B no 6.12 Shoes or 6 test pieces,
materials wet
6 test pieces, dry
4 © ISO 2011 – All rights reserved

ISO 20344:2011(E)
Table 1 (continued)
Test Type and
Property under test Type and
only on Subclause number of test
(B = basic requirement, number
the final reference pieces per
A = additional requirement) of samples
footwear sample
Thickness B yes 8.1 1 shoe from 1 test piece
each of 3 sizes
(SML)
Tear strength B yes 8.2 1 shoe from 1 test piece
each of 3 sizes
(SML)
Abrasion resistance B yes 8.3 1 shoe from 1 test piece
each of 3 sizes
(SML)
Flexing resistance B yes 8.4 1 shoe from 1 test piece
Outsole each of 3 sizes
(SML)
Hydrolysis B yes 8.5 1 shoe from 1 test piece
each of 3 sizes
(SML)
Resistance to fuel oil B yes 8.6 1 shoe from 2 test pieces
each of 3 sizes
(SML)
Resistance to hot contact A yes 8.7 1 shoe from 1 test piece
each of 3 sizes
(SML)
5 Test methods for whole footwear
5.1 Specific ergonomic features
The specific ergonomic features of the footwear shall be assessed by examining the footwear using wear trials
on three wearers with appropriate foot sizes.
During the trials the wearers, wearing each pair of the correctly fitting footwear, simulate typical tasks likely to
be undertaken in general use.
These tasks are:
— walking normally for 5 min at a speed between 4 and 5 km/h;
— climbing (17 ± 3) stairs and descending (17 ± 3) stairs in 1 min maximum;
— kneeling/crouching down (see Figure 1).
After having completed all tasks, each wearer shall fill in the questionnaire given in Table 2.
ISO 20344:2011(E)
Figure 1 — Position to adopt during the kneel/crouch down test
Table 2 — Questionnaire for the assessment of ergonomic features
1 Is the inside surface of the footwear free from rough, sharp or hard areas that YES NO
caused you irritation or injury (checked by hand)?
2 Is the footwear free of features that you consider make wearing the footwear YES NO
hazardous?
3 Can the fastening be adequately adjusted (if necessary)? YES NO
4 Can the following activities be performed without problems?
4.1 Walking YES NO
4.2 Climbing stairs YES NO
4.3 Kneeling/crouching down YES NO
5.2 Determination of upper/outsole and sole interlayer bond strength
5.2.1 Principle
The force required to separate the upper from the outsole, or to separate adjacent layers of the outsole, or
to cause tear failure of the upper or the sole is measured. The test is not applicable when the bond has been
made by grindery (using e.g. nails or screws) or stitching.
NOTE In all cases the objective should be to test the bond strength nearest to the edge of the assembly.
5.2.2 Apparatus
5.2.2.1 Tensile machine, with a means of continuously recording load, with a jaw separation rate of
(100 ± 20) mm/min and a force range of 0 N to 600 N. The machine shall be fitted with either pincers or flat jaws
(depending on the construction of the test sample, see 5.2.4), (27,5 ± 2,5) mm wide, capable of firmly gripping
the test pieces.
5.2.3 Preparation of test pieces
5.2.3.1 Sole/upper bond strength: construction type a
Take a test piece from either the inner or the outer joint region.
6 © ISO 2011 – All rights reserved

ISO 20344:2011(E)
Make cuts at X-X and Y-Y at right angles to the edge of the sole, insole or outsole to produce a test piece
about 25 mm wide. The length of the upper and sole shall be about 15 mm measured from the feather line (see
Figure 3). Remove the insole.
NOTE See Figure 2.
5.2.3.2 Sole/upper bond strength: construction types b, c, d and e
Take a test piece from either the inner or outer joint region.
Cut the upper and sole at X-X and Y-Y to produce a test piece with a width of about 10 mm and a length of not
less than 50 mm. Remove the insole.
Separate the upper from the sole for a length of about 10 mm by inserting a hot knife in the adhesive layer (see
Figure 4).
It is considered that a construction is c or d when the distance from X-X to the upper face of the insole is at
least 8 mm.
NOTE See Figure 2.
5.2.3.3 Interlayer bond strength: construction types f and g
Take a test piece from either the inner or the outer joint region.
Remove the upper by cutting along the feather line at X-X. Remove the insole if present. Cut a strip parallel to
and including the sole edge at Y-Y to produce a test piece about 15 mm wide and at least 50 mm long. Separate
the sole layers for a length of about 10 mm by inserting a hot knife into the adhesive layer (see Figure 4).
NOTE See Figure 2.
Type a Type b
Figure 2 (continued)
ISO 20344:2011(E)
Type c Type d
Type e Type f
Type g
Key
Type a conventional lasting, cemented or moulded outsole having an extended range
Type b conventional lasting, close trimmed outsole
Type c conventional lasting, direct injected or vulcanised outsole or cemented dished outsole
Type d Strobel stitched, cemented dished outsole or direct injected or vulcanised outsole
Type e conventional lasting or Strobel stitched with rubber mudguard and cemented outsole
Type f machine sewn or welted where the outsole is bonded to the throughsole
Type g multilayered sole, e.g. moulded-on sole, a moulded unit or a built unit
Figure 2 — Types of construction showing position for preparation of the test piece for
bond strength
8 © ISO 2011 – All rights reserved

ISO 20344:2011(E)
Dimensions in millimetres
Key
1 insole (removed)
2 feather line
3 outsole
Figure 3 — Cross section of test piece
Dimensions in millimetres
Figure 4 — Prepared test piece
ISO 20344:2011(E)
Key
1 pincer jaw for sole edge
2 upper
3 sole
Figure 5 — Pincer jaw showing position of test piece
Key
1 peeling force, expressed in newtons
2 average
3 deformation
Figure 6 — Example of load/deformation graph
5.2.4 Measurement of bond strength
Before carrying out the test, measure the width of the test piece to the nearest mm at several points using a
calibrated steel rule and calculate the average value to the nearest mm. Then measure the bond strength on a
minimum length of 30 mm in one of the following ways.
— For sole/upper bond strength (construction type a): clamp the test piece into the jaws of the tensile machine,
using a pincer jaw to grip the short edge of the sole (see Figure 5), and record the load/deformation graph
(see Figure 6) at a jaw separation speed of (100 ± 20) mm/min.
— For sole/upper bond strength (construction types b, c, d and e) and sole interlayer bond strength
(construction types f and g): clamp the separated ends of the test piece in the flat jaws and record the
load/deformation graph (see Figure 6) at a jaw separation speed of (100 ± 20) mm/min.
10 © ISO 2011 – All rights reserved

ISO 20344:2011(E)
5.2.5 Calculation and expression of results
Determine, from the load/deformation graph, the average peeling load in newtons and divide by the average
width (calculated in 5.2.4) to give the bond strength in N/mm.
5.3 Determination of internal toecap length
5.3.1 Preparation of test piece
Carefully extract the toecaps from an untested pair of footwear and remove all foreign materials adhering to
them, or take a new pair of identical toecaps.
NOTE Preconditioning of the test piece is unnecessary.
5.3.2 Determination of the test axis
Position the left toecap with its rear edge in line with a base line and draw its outline. Repeat the exercise with
the right toecap of the pair. Position the outlines in such a manner that the outlines at both the toe end of the
toecaps and the base lines coincide (see Figure 7).
Key
1 test axis
2 right cap
3 left cap
Figure 7 — Determination of the test axis
Mark the four points A, B, C and D where the outlines of the left and right toecaps intersect on the base line.
Erect the perpendicular from the base line at the midpoint of A-B or C-D. This constitutes the test axis of the
toecap.
5.3.3 Test procedure
Place the toecap, open side down, on a flat surface. Using an appropriate gauge, measure the internal length,
l, along the test axis from the toe to the back edge at a distance between 3 mm and 10 mm above and parallel
to the surface upon which the toecap rests (see Figure 8). l is the maximum length which can be measured.
ISO 20344:2011(E)
Dimensions in millimetres
l
Key
1 test axis
l internal length
Figure 8 — Measurement of internal toecap length
5.4 Determination of impact resistance
5.4.1 Apparatus
5.4.1.1 Impact apparatus, as described in EN 12568:2010, 5.2.2.1.1.
5.4.1.2 Clamping device, consisting of a smooth steel plate at least 19 mm thick and 150 mm × 150 mm, of
minimum hardness 60 HRC, with a screw clamp for clamping the forepart of the insole/insock of the toe-end
of the footwear under test to the plate in a way which will not restrict lateral expansion of the toecap during the
impact test (see Figure 9).
12 © ISO 2011 – All rights reserved

ISO 20344:2011(E)
Dimensions in millimetres
Key
1 adjusting screw
2 clamping screw
3 striker
4 modelling clay cylinder
5 stabilizing fork
6 base plate
7 thickness = 10 mm
NOTE The dimensions given in this figure are illustrative only. Smaller stabilizing forks of the same proportions may
be used for smaller toecaps.
Figure 9 — Example of footwear clamp
The stabilizing fork, which is to be introduced into the front part of the footwear, shall be adjusted by means of
the adjusting screw to rest on the insole, parallel to the base plate. The clamping screw (M8 thread) shall be
tightened by applying a torque of (3 ± 1) N·m.
ISO 20344:2011(E)
5.4.1.3 Cylinders, of modelling clay of diameter (25 ± 2) mm and of height (20 ± 2) mm for footwear up to and
including size 40 (French) and of height (25 ± 2) mm for footwear above size 40. The flat ends of the cylinder
shall be covered with aluminium foil to prevent them sticking to either the test piece or the test equipment.
The modelling clay shall fulfil the requirement given in Annex A.
5.4.1.4 Dial gauge, with a hemispherical foot of (3,0 ± 0,2) mm radius and a hemispherical anvil of (15 ± 2) mm
radius exerting a force not greater than 250 mN.
5.4.2 Procedure
5.4.2.1 Determination of the test axis (see Figure 10)
Locate the testing axis by placing the footwear on a horizontal surface and against a vertical plane so that it
touches the edge of the sole at points A and B on the inner side of the footwear. Construct two further vertical
planes at right angles to the first vertical plane so that they meet the sole at points X and Y, the toe point
and heel point respectively. Draw a line through X and Y. This constitutes the test axis for the forepart of the
footwear.
Figure 10 — Test axis for footwear
5.4.2.2 Preparation of the test piece
Prepare the forepart of the footwear by cutting off the toe end 30 mm behind the rear edge of the toecap. Then
remove the complete upper assembly flush with the rear edge of the toecap. Do not remove the upper and
lining in the toecap area. If the footwear has been supplied with a removable insock, carry out the test with it
in place.
NOTE Preconditioning of the test piece is unnecessary.
5.4.2.3 Test procedure
Position a cylinder (5.4.1.3) on one of its ends inside the test piece as shown in Figure 11.
14 © ISO 2011 – All rights reserved

ISO 20344:2011(E)
d/3
d
Key
1 toecap
2 modelling clay cylinder
Text axis XY
Figure 11 — Position of cylinder for the impact or compression test of footwear
Position the test piece in the impact apparatus (5.4.1.1) so that when the striker hits it, the striker shall project
over the back and the front of the toecap. Adjust the clamping device (5.4.1.2).
Allow the striker to drop on to the test axis from the appropriate height to give an impact energy of (200 ± 4) J
for safety footwear.
With the measuring device (5.4.1.4), measure the lowest height to which the cylinder has been compressed to
the nearest 0,5 mm. This value is the clearance at the moment of impact.
5.5 Determination of compression resistance
5.5.1 Apparatus
5.5.1.1 Compression testing machine, as described in EN 12568:2010, 5.1.3.1.1.
5.5.1.2 Cylinders, as described in 5.4.1.3.
5.5.1.3 Dial gauge, as described in 5.4.1.4.
ISO 20344:2011(E)
5.5.1.4 Clamping device, as described in 5.4.1.2.
5.5.2 Procedure
5.5.2.1 Determination of the test axis
Determine the test axis as described in 5.4.2.1.
5.5.2.2 Preparation of the test piece
Prepare the test piece as described in 5.4.2.2.
NOTE Preconditioning of the test piece is unnecessary.
5.5.3 Test procedure
Position a cylinder (5.5.1.2) on one of its ends inside the test piece as shown in Figure 11. Place the test piece
in the clamping device (5.5.1.4) and adjust.
Position the clamping device and test piece between the plates of the compression machine (5.5.1.1) and
compress the test piece until the load of (15 ± 0,1) kN for safety footwear (see Figure 12) has been reached.
Key
1 upper plate
2 modelling clay cylinder
3 clamping device
4 lower plate
Figure 12 — Apparatus for compression resistance
Reduce the load, remove the cylinder and, with the measuring device (5.5.1.3), measure the lowest height to
which the cylinder has been compressed to the nearest 0,5 mm. This value is the compression clearance.
16 © ISO 2011 – All rights reserved

ISO 20344:2011(E)
5.6 Behaviour of toecaps and inserts (thermal and chemical)
5.6.1 Test method for metallic toecaps and metallic inserts in class II footwear
5.6.1.1 Preparation of the test piece
See Tables 3 and 4.
NOTE Preconditioning of the test piece is unnecessary.
5.6.1.2 Test solution
Use a mass fraction of 1 % aqueous solution of sodium chloride.
5.6.1.3 Procedure
Pour sufficient test solution into a test piece to fill it up in order to be sure that the toecap/insert is under the
level of the solution. Cover the top of the footwear with e.g. a polyethylene cover, to minimise evaporation.
Leave for 7 days and then discard the test solution.
Remove the toecap/insert from the footwear and examine for any evidence of corrosion. When present,
measure the longest distance across each area of corrosion and note the number of such areas.
5.6.2 Behaviour of toecaps (thermal and chemical)
Toecaps shall be tested in accordance with Table 3.
Table 3 — Minimum number of samples and test pieces and test methods for toecaps
Footwear Type and number Type and number Test only on Test method
of sample of test pieces the final footwear
per sample
Class I metal toecap 1 toecap in 2 sizes 1 toecap No, only new EN 12568:2010, 5.3
toecaps can be
tested
Class II metal toecap 1 shoe in 2 sizes 1 shoe Yes ISO 20344:2011, 5.6.1
Class I and II non-metal 5 pairs of toecaps 1 pair of toecap No, only new EN 12568:2010, 5.4
toecap for each of the toecaps can be
5 treatments tested
5.6.3 Behaviour of inserts (thermal and chemical)
Inserts shall be tested in accordance with Table 4.
ISO 20344:2011(E)
Table 4 — Minimum number of samples and test pieces and test methods for inserts
Footwear Type and number Type and number Test only on Test method
of sample of test pieces the final footwear
per sample
Class I metal insert 1 insert in 2 sizes 2 test pieces No, only new EN 12568:2010, 7.3
inserts can be
tested
Class II metal insert 1 shoe in 2 sizes 1 shoe Yes EN ISO 20344:2011,
5.6.1
Class I and II non-metal 1 insert for each 1 insert for each No, only new EN 12568:2010, 7.4
insert of the 5 treatments of the 5 treatments inserts can be
(2 penetration tests tested
on each test piece)
5.7 Determination of leakproofness
5.7.1 Apparatus
5.7.1.1 Waterbath.
5.7.1.2 Supply of compressed air.
5.7.2 Preparation of the test piece
Take the entire item of footwear as the test piece.
5.7.3 Procedure
Carry out the test at a temperature of (23 ± 2) °C.
Seal the top edge of the test piece, e.g. with a rubber collar through which compressed air may be fed via
appropriate connections. Immerse the test piece in a waterbath up to the edge and apply a constant internal
pressure of (30 ± 5) kPa for 30 s. Observe the test piece throughout the test and determine whether there is a
continued formation of air bubbles, indicating leakage of air.
5.8 Determination of the dimensional conformity of inserts and the penetration resistance
of the sole
5.8.1 Dimensional conformity of inserts
Measure L, the length of the inside of the bottom of the footwear. Draw as in Figure 13 the shaded areas
1 and 2.
Section the footwear and measure the distances X and Y (see Figure 13) being the distances between the
edge of the insert and the line left by the feather edge of the last, to the nearest 0,5 mm.
18 © ISO 2011 – All rights reserved
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