Safety Footwear: What You Need to Know About OSHA-Approved Protection

Q: What does 'ASTM F2413' mean on safety boots?

ASTM F2413 indicates the shoe meets OSHA-approved specifications for impact, compression, electrical, puncture, and static protection.

Q: Are composite toe boots as safe as steel toe boots?

Yes—composite toes meet the same ASTM impact/compression standards as steel, but without metal issues (lighter, non‑conductive).

Q: What does the 'EH' rating stand for?

EH stands for Electrical Hazard—footwear rated 'EH' protects against live electrical circuits up to 600 V.

Q: How often should I replace my safety shoes?

Replace them when soles are worn, toe caps are damaged, or after heavy impact—typically every 12–24 months depending on usage.

Q: Can I use overshoes instead of safety boots?

No. OSHA only recognizes integrated safety footwear. Overshoes do not meet OSHA requirements when worn over regular shoes.

Safety Footwear: What You Need to Know About OSHA-Approved Protection

Quick Answer: Safety footwear is protective gear designed to guard against foot injuries from impact, compression, puncture, electrical hazards, and more. To comply with OSHA, always choose footwear labeled with **ASTM F2413** standards (impact, compression, EH, etc.).

Why Safety Footwear Matters

Your feet carry you through every job. Whether you're working in construction, utilities, disaster response, or shipping, the risk of foot injuries—from falling tools to electrical hazards—is real. OSHA mandates protective footwear when a hazard is present. Wearing proper footwear not only ensures compliance under 29 CFR 1910.136 but also enhances on-the-job safety for the long haul.

OSHA & ASTM Safety Footwear Standards

OSHA requires safety shoes to meet performance standards by ASTM International, specifically ASTM F2412 (testing methods) and ASTM F2413 (performance specs). These include:

I/75 – Impact resistance (75 ft-lb)
C/75 – Compression resistance (2,500 lb)
EH – Electrical hazard protection up to 600 V
PR – Puncture resistance (with steel midsole)
SD / Cd – Static dissipative (SD) or conductive (Cd)

From ANSI to ASTM

Before 2005, ANSI Z41 governed footwear safety standards. In March 2005, ASTM F2412 and F2413 officially replaced ANSI Z41 as the OSHA-referenced standards. Brands may still label older models with ANSI, but ASTM compliance is the current benchmark.

Choosing the Right Safety Footwear

Match features with your hazard exposure:

Impact/compression hazards: Look for “I/C 75” ratings
Risk of electrical shock: Choose “EH”-rated boots (e.g., electricians)
Sharp debris or nails: Go for PR-rated (puncture-resistant)
Static-sensitive environments: Opt for SD (dissipative) models
Wet or chemical areas: Waterproof or chemical-resistant uppers

Explore our certified selections at eDisasterSystems.com/Footwear.

Types of Safety Footwear to Know

Steel Toe Boots – Classic choice for impact protection
Composite Toe – Non-metallic, lighter, and non-conductive
Alloy Toe – Lightweight and durable
Metatarsal Guard – Added coverage across the instep
Overboots/Overshoes – Used over regular shoe for temporary protection

Metal toe caps may set off airport scanners—composite alternatives are TSA-friendly.

How to Care For Safety Footwear

Inspect monthly for sole wear, cracking seams, or damaged toe caps
Clean with mild soap; avoid harsh chemicals that degrade materials
Keep dry—moisture can compromise leather, insulation, or electrical integrity
Replace footwear once out of spec or after a severe impact event

FAQ

About the Author

Mick Chan brings over 15 years of expertise in workplace safety and PPE. With a degree in Business Administration from Cal State LA, Mick specializes in blending OSHA compliance with practical product recommendations. Based in the San Gabriel Valley, he understands regional needs in construction, utilities, and disaster preparedness.

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