EN ISO 20349 Standard – Protection for Welding and Foundry Work in Safety Footwear

EN ISO 20349:2017+A1:2020 defines enhanced safety requirements for footwear used in high-temperature environments such as welding operations and metal foundries.

What is EN ISO 20349

EN ISO 20349 is part of the EN ISO 2034x family of standards for protective footwear. It applies specifically to boots and shoes worn in environments with thermal hazards, including molten iron, aluminum, and welding sparks.

The standard is split into two parts:

  • Part 1 (20349-1): Footwear for foundries
  • Part 2 (20349-2): Footwear for welding

Both parts of EN ISO 20349 expand on the foundational requirements of EN ISO 20345 by introducing specialized protection for high-heat environments. They add certified resistance to molten metal splashes, flame exposure, and contact heat, along with stricter design constraints and enhanced material durability to withstand extreme thermal conditions.

Key Requirements of EN ISO 20349

Footwear certified to EN ISO 20349 must meet all mandatory EN ISO 20345 criteria plus additional thermal protection features:

  • Protective toecaps (200 J impact resistance)
  • Resistance to molten metal splashes (Fe or Al marking)
  • Flame-resistant upper materials
  • Heat-resistant soles (HRO)
  • Design B or higher (low-cut shoes not permitted)
  • No exposed seams or fastenings that trap molten metal

Thermal Resistance Markings

Symbol Description
Fe Protection against molten iron (approx. 1400°C / 2552°F)
Al Protection against molten aluminum (approx. 700°C / 1292°F)
WG Welding protection (flame, sparks, contact heat)

Who needs EN ISO 20349 Footwear

Jalas Certified Safety Footwear for Welding and Foundries

5 of 5

JALAS® 1228W

Mid-cut boot with hidden BOA® Fit System

Our most comfortable and durable welding boot with the best possible protection.

JALAS® GRAN PREMIO 1898W WINTER KING

A high-cut, triple-lined winter safety boot with highest protection for very cold environments.

JALAS® GRAN PREMIO 1678W

Welding boot with Thinsulate™ lining

Durable and comfortable with PTC-textile nail penetration insert.

JALAS® GRAN PREMIO 1868W KING

High boot for hot work

Wide fit, heat-resistant upper and outsole, perfect for welders.

JALAS® GRAN PREMIO 1668W

Welding boot with many features

Durable and comfortable with steel nail penetration insert.

5 of 5

Get More Knowledge

Explore All JALAS® Safety Standards

JALAS® Safety Footwear is built to meet a wide range of certified standards from impact and slip resistance to nail penetration protection and ESD. Learn how each standard keeps you safe.