EN 345 / EN ISO 20345 is the relevant standard. The basic SB rating covers steel-toecap impact protection. S1 adds antistatic and oil-resistant outsole. S1P adds penetration-resistant midsole (steel or composite plate against nail-through). S3 adds water-resistant upper and cleated outsole — the typical workshop-and-yard standard. For wet, oily, or chemically-exposed bays, S3 is the recommended minimum. Check the rating mark on the boot tongue or sole.
Safety glasses cover impact-only protection (chips, dust, light splash) — comfortable for all-day workshop use. Goggles seal against the face for splash and dust protection — used for grinding, chemical handling, and dusty work where particles could enter from the side. Face shields cover the full face — used for grinding and cut-off work where larger debris could strike the face, or as secondary protection over safety glasses. Match the protection level to the hazard; for grinding operations, both safety glasses and a face shield are the workshop-standard combination.
SNR (single number rating) gives the dB attenuation provided by the protector. For typical workshop noise (impact wrenches, grinders, compressors at 85-95 dB), SNR 25-30 dB is adequate. For heavier noise (paving breakers, plant operation, sustained power-tool work at 95-105 dB), SNR 30-35 dB. Over-protecting (SNR much higher than needed) creates communication problems and can be counter-productive. The workplace noise survey gives the L_EX,8h figure that drives the protection requirement.
Disposable particulate masks (FFP1, FFP2, FFP3 to EN 149) are single-shift items — replace at the end of the working shift, or sooner if breathing resistance noticeably increases or the mask becomes damaged or contaminated. For half-face and full-face respirators with replaceable cartridges, the cartridge service life depends on the contaminant and workplace concentration — check the cartridge product page. The respirator body is typically replaced annually under heavy use or when damaged.
Returns are accepted within 30 days of purchase, in original packaging, on orders delivered within the United Kingdom. For damaged-on-arrival items, report within 24 hours with photographs to [email protected] — we will typically arrange collection and replacement at no cost to you. For parts that don't fit your machine, the Fit Guarantee covers a hassle-free return at no cost. For buyer's remorse — you've changed your mind or ordered the wrong item, email us first to obtain a Return Merchandise Number; a restocking fee may apply. Refunds are issued to the original payment method once the return is inspected.
Delivery time depends on the product, your destination, and availability — the estimated time for any item appears on the product page, and 'Check where we deliver' confirms coverage for your postcode before you order. Next-day delivery is available on most products; the option appears at checkout when applicable. We deliver across the UK, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Use the country selector at checkout to confirm coverage and delivery options for your destination.