What aspects of the EN ISO 20347 standard should be considered when choosing hospitality footwear?

Employment in the hospitality sector experienced notable growth during the second quarter of 2025, reaching 1,880,500 workers, 180,000 more people than in the previous quarter. To ensure that all these professionals can carry out their work in optimal conditions, it is essential to guarantee safe and healthy working environments. This not only affects their well-being, but also helps improve productivity and reduce turnover in areas such as catering or waiter work, where staff shortages are an increasingly common issue. 

Among the factors that influence the satisfaction of hospitality workers, professional footwear is a fundamental pillar. With long shifts, constant movement and work areas with slippery surfaces, it is essential that the features of the shoes ensure the professional's comfort, protection and freedom of movement.

To make it easier to choose appropriate footwear, the international EN ISO 20347 standard provides a framework that establishes the requirements that work footwear must meet in environments such as hospitality. We outline the main aspects of this standard and its application in the sector.

What is the EN ISO 20347 standard and how does it relate to hospitality footwear?

The EN ISO 20347 standard, whose most recent version is UNE-EN ISO 20347:2022+/A1:2024,  sets out the requirements for work footwear that is not exposed to direct mechanical risks, such as impacts or crushing at the toe. It is therefore particularly suitable for sectors such as hospitality, where the priority is safety on slippery surfaces, exposure to liquids and reducing the physical wear caused by prolonged exertion. The standard includes all types of footwear that do not require a safety toe cap. 

Footwear categories according to EN ISO 20347

EN ISO 20347 classifies footwear according to levels and types of protection. The different categories are determined by specific features. 

• OB. Shoes in this category meet the basic requirements, including slip resistance.  
• O1. In addition to the above conditions, this includes a closed heel, energy absorption in the heel and antistatic properties.
• O2. Includes the features of O1, as well as resistance to water penetration and absorption.
• O3. Also incorporates a puncture-resistant midsole designed to improve grip.

 Choosing footwear based on these categories makes it possible to adapt it to the specific requirements of the activity in kitchens, bars, restaurants or service areas, among others.

Which EN ISO 20347 aspects are most relevant to hospitality?

The purpose of all standards is to prioritise effectiveness, safety and well-being. In the case of a hospitality business, choosing shoes certified under EN ISO 20347 provides additional protection for its workers and helps create a more positive working environment. But which of its main aspects are especially relevant to professionals in this sector? We explain them below. 

1. Manufacturing with materials suitable for hospitality environments

The materials used must be durable, easy to clean and not retain unpleasant odours. For this reason, breathable fabrics are particularly recommended. In hospitality, where liquid spills and constant exposure to moisture are frequent, shoes that repel water and are easy to sanitise increase durability and benefit worker health.

2. Fit and ergonomics

Footwear should provide good arch support, a secure fit and sufficient ventilation. A poorly fitting or non-breathable shoe can cause blisters and lead to injuries, especially to the feet, back and knees. 

3. Slip-resistant soles that prevent slips

Slips on wet, damp or greasy surfaces are one of the main occupational risks in hospitality and catering. For this reason, EN ISO 20347 establishes strict requirements for the slip-resistant sole of shoes, which must pass specific tests for different types of surfaces commonly found in kitchens and bars. Choosing a model with slip-resistance certification promotes everyday safety.

4. Features that improve worker comfort and hygiene

Cushioned and removable insoles, lightweight construction and footwear flexibility improve workers' everyday comfort and reduce fatigue in an activity that requires standing for many hours. Shoes For Crews hospitality shoes bring together all these features.

5. Antistatic properties and energy-absorbing heel

The ability to cushion heel impact helps reduce fatigue and joint pain after long working days. In addition, footwear with antistatic properties prevents the build-up of static electricity, which can be uncomfortable and poses a risk in certain environments.

Professional hospitality shoes that comply with the requirements of the EN ISO 20347 standard promote safer, more comfortable and more productive working environments, increasing worker satisfaction. At Shoes For Crews, we offer a wide range of footwear that meets these requirements. Contact us and we will help you choose the most suitable model for your business.