Frequently asked questions

A waterproof leather upper with a slip-resistant sole handles Cork's wet ground far better than a standard trainer-style boot. Steel or composite toe protection matters on any site with falling loads, and a puncture-resistant midsole adds cover against nails and loose debris. Our Steelite range covers all three and stands up to wet, uneven Irish sites.

Safety boots often fit larger than a normal shoe because of the toe cap and reinforced lining, so many customers size up by half a size. Wide-fit options exist for tradespeople with broader feet, and heel height varies between brands too. Try a pair on or check the sizing chart on each product page before you order.

EN ISO 20345 sets the benchmark for safety footwear across Ireland and the UK, covering toe protection, slip resistance and sole strength. Codes such as S1P, S3 or SB tell you exactly what extra protection a boot carries, from midsole puncture resistance to water resistance. Check the product code on each COH listing to match the standard to your site's risk level.

Safety workwear builds certified protection into the fabric or design, like flame-resistant trousers, cut-resistant gloves, or hi-vis panels carrying a specific safety class. Everyday workwear focuses on comfort and durability without those certifications. Choose safety workwear whenever a risk assessment calls for it, and save standard workwear for lower-risk tasks.

COH Sales delivers nationwide across Ireland, with fast turnaround for Cork and Munster customers. Standard orders are released as soon as possible, and the team confirms a delivery timeline for bulk or contract orders at checkout. Contact the Cork unit directly for urgent same-week requirements.

A 20-litre general-purpose kit handles most workshops and small yards, covering oils, water-based liquids and light chemical spills in one unit. Sites handling aggressive chemicals need a dedicated chemical-only kit, since general absorbents don't neutralise every substance safely. Larger sites or depots benefit from a bigger capacity kit and wall-mounted stations for quick access.

Cork's short winter days and frequent rain make visibility a genuine safety issue on any road-adjacent or dark site. A Hi Visibility jacket that meets EN ISO 20471 reflects light from vehicle headlights and keeps workers visible from a longer distance. Waterproof hi-vis options add weather protection on top of the visibility rating, useful for anyone working outdoors through winter.

Most COH Hi Visibility jackets cut generously around the body, so they fit over a fleece, jumper or thermal base layer without restricting movement. Check the size guide on each listing, since a snug jacket over bulky layers limits arm movement and reduces comfort on longer shifts. Sizing up by one size solves the issue for most customers working through colder months.

Class 3 Hi Visibility garments provide the highest visibility rating and suit anyone working near moving traffic or in low-light conditions. Class 2 covers general site work away from roads, while Class 1 suits lower-risk environments. Always check your site's risk assessment or client specification before choosing a rating.

Certified safety boots, a Hi Visibility jacket, and a basic chemical spill kit cover the core risks on most construction and industrial sites. Add safety workwear like flame-resistant or cut-resistant garments once your risk assessment flags a specific hazard. COH Sales stocks all four categories together, so outfitting a full team from one supplier stays simple.