Following an extensive selection process lasting almost five years, NMBS opted for EMMA Safety Footwear. The Connect Sport scored highest in the wear-testing and achieved the highest satisfaction ratings amongst train crew.
Every day, train conductors at the National Society of Belgian Railways (NMBS) cover many kilometres. They walk across platforms, up and down stairs, across linoleum floors on the train and on various surfaces, come rain or shine. Safety footwear must therefore provide sufficient grip and remain comfortable throughout the working day. For Jo Meert, Senior Buyer at NMBS, this was the starting point when selecting safety footwear for train attendants.
“Our train attendants wear their shoes for nine to ten hours a day. On average, they walk around nine kilometres per shift and work on all sorts of surfaces. Non-slip properties were therefore one of the most important requirements. Most workplace accidents are caused by slipping. We were therefore looking for an O2 shoe. It also had to fit well under the uniform.”
“The tender process ultimately took nearly five years. We went through three rounds of tenders and carried out extensive wear-testing. EMMA only took part in the final tender. For this tender, EMMA developed the Connect Sport. They listened very carefully to our requirements. Together with their distributor Tric, they not only submitted a strong proposal, but also gave our train attendants a clear demonstration of the shoe. This was very well received.”
“This was followed by the wear test. One hundred train attendants from across Belgium wore the shoes for several months. Ultimately, seven models from different brands remained. This means the 3,500 train attendants have a choice of different shoes. EMMA’s Connect Sport came out on top in the wear test. The shoe scored highly for grip, lightness, comfort and fit. This confirmed that we had made the right choice.”
“Following the contract award, we continue to monitor our staff’s satisfaction. We consider this annual survey to be at least as important as the wear test. We replace any shoes that score too low. Ultimately, it is our staff who wear the shoes every day.
EMMA also scored highest in the satisfaction survey conducted in May 2026. Of the 3,500 train attendants, 1,000 wear EMMA’s Connect Sport. More than half (58.1 per cent) of them have chosen to continue wearing this model in the future.”
“What I particularly appreciate is that EMMA, together with Tric, really listened to what we needed. It was a genuine collaboration. They contributed ideas and adapted quickly when necessary. Ultimately, this is reflected in user satisfaction. For me, that sums up the collaboration: quality, satisfied staff and a lightweight, sporty shoe.”