A Guide to MOM-Approved Safety Shoes in Singapore

person wearing black safety shoes

When it comes to workplace safety, the right footwear isn’t just a matter of comfort — it’s a legal and practical necessity. In Singapore, many jobs require MOM-approved safety shoes to meet the Ministry of Manpower’s standards for personal protective equipment (PPE).

Whether you’re a site manager, warehouse staff, or simply shopping for MOM-approved safety shoes, this guide breaks down what you need to know to stay safe and compliant.

Table of Contents
  1. A Guide to MOM-Approved Safety Shoes in Singapore
    1. What are MOM-Approved Safety Shoes?
      1. SS 513 & EN ISO 20345 Safety Standards Explained
        1. EN ISO 20345 Safety Ratings Comparison*
    2. Why are MOM-Approved Safety Shoes Important?
    3. How to Choose the Right Pair for Your Job?
    4. Where to Find MOM-Approved Safety Shoes in Singapore?
    5. FAQs About MOM-Approved Safety Shoes

What are MOM-Approved Safety Shoes?

MOM-approved safety shoes are protective footwear that complies with the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) guidelines in Singapore. These shoes are designed to reduce the risk of foot injuries in workplaces where hazards like heavy machinery, sharp objects, slippery floors, or electrical risks are present.

To be considered MOM-compliant, safety footwear must meet the following standards:

      • SS 513 (Singapore Standard) or
      • EN ISO 20345 (European Standard)

These standards ensure the shoes are tested for features like:

      • Steel or composite toe caps (impact protection)
      • Slip resistance
      • Puncture-resistant midsoles
      • Electrical hazard protection (if required)
      • Water and chemical resistance (for relevant industries)

SS 513 & EN ISO 20345 Safety Standards Explained

safety footwear standard comparison banner

Feature / Criteria

SS 513 (Singapore)

EN ISO 20345 (European)

Country of Origin

Singapore

Europe (Internationally adopted)

Toe Cap Protection

200-joule impact resistance

Puncture Resistance

Yes (in S1P, S3 and above)

Slip Resistance

Required

Required (SRC standard)

Antistatic / Electrical Properties

Optional (Depends on job hazard)

Optional (Depends on shoe rating)*

Water Resistance

Optional (Depends on job hazard)

Included in S2/S3 and above

Energy Absorption (Heel)

Required

Label Marking

SS 513 marking label

CE mark + S1/S2/S3 rating code

CE mark

MOM Acceptance

✅ Yes

Common in

Singapore-based brands/suppliers

Global and widely used in Singapore

EN ISO 20345 Safety Ratings Comparison*

Feature

SB

S1

S1P

S2

S3

S4

S5

200J Toe Cap

✅

✅

✅

✅

✅

✅

✅

Enclosed Heel

❌

✅

✅

✅

✅

✅

✅

Energy Absorption (Heel)

❌

✅

✅

✅

✅

✅

✅

Antistatic Properties

❌

✅

✅

✅

✅

✅

✅

Water-Resistant Upper

❌

❌

❌

✅

✅

✅

✅

Puncture-Resistant Midsole

❌

❌

✅

❌

✅

❌

✅

Footwear Material Class*

I

I

I

I

I

II

II

Typical Usage

Low-risk indoor

Dry indoor area

Warehouses, light industrial

Light outdoor

Construction, landscaping

Wet areas, agriculture

Construction, waste management

*Class I → Leather or textile uppers
**Class II → Rubber/polymer (fully waterproof boots)

For detailed information on acceptable PPE standards in Singapore, refer to the official standard SS 513:2024, available in the Singapore Standards eShop*.
*Note that the full document is a paid publication and must be purchased to access all technical details.

Why are MOM-Approved Safety Shoes Important?

Workplace accidents involving feet are more common than many think, from crushing injuries to slips and falls. MOM-approved safety shoes ensure:

      • Compliance with local workplace regulations
      • Protection from common hazards like falling objects or sharp debris
      • Confidence for workers and employers that safety isn’t being compromised
      • Durability in high-risk work environments, improving long-term safety and value

Failing to wear proper PPE, including certified safety shoes, can result in fines, injuries, or even legal issues for employers under Singapore’s Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Act.

How to Choose the Right Pair for Your Job?

Choosing the right pair of safety shoes isn’t just about ticking a compliance box — it’s about making sure your footwear actually protects against the specific hazards of your workplace.

Here’s how to evaluate what’s best for your role:

brown safety shoes

1. Check the certification label
Only shoes certified under SS 513, EN ISO 20345, or ASTM F2413 meet MOM’s safety standards. Look for the rating (e.g., S1, S3, S5) on the label, packaging, or product specs to ensure compliance.

2. Purchase shoes based on your work environment
Some companies may have stricter PPE policies depending on their risk assessment. Check if your role requires:

      • Slip-resistant soles (SRC-rated)
      • Chemical or heat resistance
      • Anti-static or ESD protection

3. Prioritise fit and comfort
Safety shoes should feel secure and supportive, especially during long hours on your feet. Look for features like cushioned insoles, proper arch support and breathable materials. Lightweight safety shoes can also improve overall comfort and reduce fatigue.

Where to Find MOM-Approved Safety Shoes in Singapore?

MOM-compliant safety footwear is widely available in Singapore. Look for trusted industrial safety brands such as Safety Jogger, Uvex, or Caterpillar — all of which offer certified footwear that meets local and international safety standards.

FAQs About MOM-Approved Safety Shoes

What is the MOM-approved safety standard in Singapore?

The most widely accepted standards are SS 513, EN ISO 20345, and
ASTM F2413.
Shoes certified under any of these may be considered MOM-approved, depending on the specific job’s risk assessment.

Do all jobs require MOM-approved safety shoes?

No, only roles where foot injuries are a potential hazard require certified footwear. Employers must assess risks and provide appropriate PPE accordingly.

Are safety shoes suitable for ladies?

Yes, many manufacturers now offer safety shoes for women, featuring smaller sizing and ergonomic designs without sacrificing protection.