Winter can turn familiar walkways into slip risks. Frost in the yard, meltwater at the dock door and condensation on smooth concrete all reduce traction, and wet or contaminated floors are a leading cause of slips. Gritting and matting help, but the last line of defence is what your team wear on their feet.
Check the slip rating, not just the safety rating
Safety footwear in the UK is typically marked to EN ISO 20345. Look for the slip resistance codes:
- SRA: tested on ceramic tile with a soapy water solution
- SRB: tested on steel with glycerol, a slippery oily contaminant
- SRC: passes both tests, and is the sensible baseline for mixed wet and oily environments
One caution: these tests don't cover ice. If your team works in open yards or at dock doors in freezing conditions, look for footwear with a sole specifically designed and tested for icy surfaces.
Look at the sole, not just the label
Tread pattern and rubber compound do the real work. Deep, multi-directional lugs move water away from the contact area, while softer compounds stay flexible in the cold. Hard, stiff soles lose grip as temperatures drop. Also check the heel, where many slips start, and make sure it has a defined edge.
Get the fit right for winter
Thermal socks change how a boot fits. Too tight and circulation suffers, leaving feet colder. Too loose and the foot moves inside the boot, affecting balance. Encourage staff to try boots on with the socks they actually wear at work. Wearer trials are a good way to test this before committing to a large order.
Maintain what you've got
Even the best sole is only as good as its condition. Clogged treads trapped grit and worn heels cut grip significantly. Build simple habits into the routine:
- Clean soles before entering the building and at break times
- Inspect tread depth and heel wear regularly
- Replace footwear when the pattern is smoothed or the sole is cracking
Footwear is one layer of protection
No boot is slip-proof. The best results come from combining the right footwear with entrance matting, prompt spill clean-up, good lighting, and a culture where people slow down and report hazards. This winter, check what your staff are wearing, not just what's on the floor.
We're here to help.
iSB Group supplies safety footwear and workplace safety solutions to the UK logistics, warehousing and distribution sector. Visit isb-group.com or get in touch to talk through the right winter footwear for your site.
Posted 19 Oct 2026
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