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ZHSafety footwear testing
Slip resistance
Good slip resistance is an essential feature of footwear in industrial and other work environments. As well as carrying out standard tests to ensure conformity with safety legislation we can assess and evaluate footwear on a diverse range of surfaces treated with various contaminants, and on ice and frost.
Comfort
Safety footwear should not only protect the wearer but it should also be comfortable. SATRA is at the forefront of footwear comfort research and the assessment of materials, components and whole product.
Durability
Safety footwear should withstand many types of environment. Wear life is important and premature wear could compromise protective features. SATRA has developed accurate biomechanical footwear abrasion testing and has the experts to help you interpret results and suggest product improvement where needed.
Toe cap strength
Toe cap strength, both under impact and compression is the key feature of most protective footwear. Not only does SATRA carry out tests to a number of protective footwear standards but can also advise on results and how to improve designs to ensure conformity.
Breathability
Safety footwear is often worn for extended periods of time, therefore, breathability will be an important factor in user comfort. Comfort itself can be a factor in helping to maintain safety by minimising foot fatigue. SATRA can perform a wide range of whole shoe tests to determine the performance thresholds of both materials and construction.
Special protection
We have expertise in specialist areas such as chainsaw, foundry, and motorcycle protective footwear.
Thermal rating
Safety footwear is often used in extreme environments so the wearer’s feet need to be kept at a comfortable temperature. SATRA’s Cold Rating assessment gives an insulation rating for footwear for use in a wide range of climates. As well as measuring the cold rating of the footwear we can compare the effects of different components such as footbeds, linings and even the wearer’s socks.
Ergonomics
To be practical and, of course, safe, protective footwear must be ergonomically acceptable. Anything that makes it difficult for the wearer to carry out their job properly will inhibit their safety and might even discourage wear altogether. International standards usually contain a basic ergonomic assessment. SATRA’s Fitting Service includes fitting trials on new footwear ranges, help in developing products to fit specific populations, assistance with sizing systems and conversions and a comprehensive last assessment service.