ASTM safety shoe ratings are standardized codes that communicate critical protective features for industrial footwear. These ratings follow the ASTM F2413 standard and consist of letter/number combinations indicating gender, impact resistance, compression resistance, and specialized hazards like electrical risks. Understanding each component helps purchasers select footwear matched to workplace dangers, ensuring worker safety while avoiding over-specification that increases costs unnecessarily.
Key Points Explained:
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Rating Structure Basics
ASTM codes follow a fixed format:- Gender Prefix: "M" (men) or "F" (women) appears first
- Impact Rating (I/XX): The number after "I" denotes protection level (e.g., I/75 = withstands 75 ft-lb impacts)
- Compression Rating (C/XX): The number after "C" indicates compression resistance in pounds (e.g., C/75 = 2,500 lbs)
- Optional Hazard Codes: Letters like "EH" (Electrical Hazard) or "SD" (Static Dissipative) appear last
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Impact Resistance (I/XX)
- Class 75 (I/75): Protects against 75 ft-lb impacts (e.g., falling tools)
- Class 50 (I/50): For lighter 50 ft-lb impacts
- Higher numbers indicate greater protection, with Class 75 being common for heavy industrial use
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Compression Resistance (C/XX)
- Class 75 (C/75): Withstands 2,500 lbs of compression (e.g., rolling objects)
- Class 50 (C/50): Handles 1,750 lbs
- Critical for environments with heavy equipment or materials
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Specialized Hazard Codes
- EH: Electrical Hazard protection (non-conductive soles)
- SD: Static Dissipative (controls static electricity)
- PR: Puncture resistant (stops sharp objects)
- MT: Metatarsal protection (guards foot bones)
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Standard Year Reference
- The suffix (e.g., F2413-18) confirms compliance with the latest safety revisions
- Always verify the year matches current OSHA or workplace requirements
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Practical Selection Tips
- Match ratings to specific hazards (e.g., construction sites need I/75 + EH)
- Avoid overpaying for unnecessary features (warehouses may only require C/50)
- Check for dual certifications (ASTM + ISO) if sourcing globally
By decoding these ratings systematically, buyers can ensure footwear meets both safety standards and operational needs without overspending. Always cross-reference with workplace risk assessments for optimal selection.
Summary Table:
| Rating Component | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Gender Prefix | M (men) or F (women) | M = Men's footwear |
| Impact (I/XX) | Withstands XX ft-lb impacts | I/75 = 75 ft-lb protection |
| Compression (C/XX) | Resists XX lbs of compression | C/75 = 2,500 lbs resistance |
| Hazard Codes | Specialized protections (EH, SD, etc.) | EH = Electrical Hazard |
| Standard Year | Compliance with ASTM revisions | F2413-18 = 2018 version |
Ensure your workforce has the right protection—contact 3515 today for ASTM-certified safety footwear!
As a leading manufacturer, 3515 produces high-performance safety shoes and boots tailored to your industry’s hazards. Our footwear meets ASTM F2413 standards with precision, offering:
- Customized protection: Match ratings (I/75, C/75, EH, etc.) to your workplace risks.
- Cost efficiency: Avoid overpaying for unnecessary features with expert guidance.
- Bulk solutions: Scalable production for distributors and enterprises.
Let’s discuss your needs—get durable, compliant footwear that keeps teams safe. Reach out now for quotes or catalog requests!
