What is ISO 22568‑4 about?
PPE footwear needs to offer higher protection than every day-use footwear. ISO 22568‑4 is the fourth part of a multi-series on foot and leg protectors. ISO 22568‑4 specifies requirements and test methods for the non-metallic inserts with resistance against mechanical perforation, intended to function as components of PPE footwear.
Who is ISO 22568‑4 for?
ISO 22568‑4 on inserts for PPE footwear is used by:
- Footwear manufacturers
- Footwear component manufacturers
- PPE kit manufacturers and suppliers
- Product designers
- Quality testing agencies/authorities
Why should you use ISO 22568‑4?
ISO 22568‑4 on safety, protective and occupational footwear defines the performance and required properties of the footwear.
Non-metallic inserts for PPE footwear add comfort while also providing similar protection. ISO 22568‑4 provides requirements and test methods for footwear components to allow you to demonstrate the type of perforation resistant inserts before being inserted into the footwear.
What’s changed since the last update?
BS EN ISO 22568‑4:2021 supersedes EN ISO 22568‑4:2019, which is withdrawn. BS EN ISO 22568‑4:2021 includes some technical changes with respect to EN ISO 22568‑4:2019. These include:
- Changes in the type names from X and Y to PL and PS, new requirements (“tent effect” and minimum value of 950 N)
- Test nail for perforation resistance test added
- New definition added
- Figure B.3 new dimension of the nail
- Annex C and the reference material have been deleted

