ASTM 2413 is the current standard for safety footwear in the U.S., replacing the older ASTM F2412 standard. It specifies rigorous testing and performance criteria to protect workers in hazardous environments. Key requirements focus on toe protection, electrical hazard resistance, puncture resistance, and other critical safety features. Compliance ensures footwear can withstand workplace dangers like heavy impacts, compression, electrical currents, and sharp objects. Employers must provide ASTM 2413-compliant footwear where hazards exist, as mandated by OSHA regulations.
Key Points Explained:
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Toe Protection Standards
- Impact Resistance: Must withstand a 75 ft-lb impact (equivalent to a 50 lb weight dropped from 1.5 ft) without deformation or injury risk.
- Compression Resistance: Toe caps must endure 2,500 lbs of compression (tested per ASTM 2412-18a).
- Design: Typically features built-in steel, composite, or aluminum toe caps meeting dimensional requirements.
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Electrical Hazard (EH) Protection
- Insulation: Sole and heel must provide complete insulation against 18,000 volts AC (1 minute duration) and 1mA max leakage current.
- Use Case: Critical for electricians or workers near live circuits to prevent shock hazards.
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Puncture Resistance
- Material: Midsole must resist penetration by a 1.5mm diameter steel pin under 270 lbs force.
- Testing: Evaluated per ASTM F2413-18 Annex 4 for sharp object hazards (e.g., construction sites).
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Additional Optional Protections
- Metatarsal Guards: For heavy falling objects (tested to 75 ft-lb impact).
- Conductive Properties: Required in explosive environments to prevent static discharge.
- Slip Resistance: Oil- and chemical-resistant outsoles per OSHA 1910.136.
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Compliance & Labeling
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Markings: Must be permanently labeled with:
- "ASTM F2413-18" (or current revision)
- Specific ratings (e.g., "I/75 C/75 EH" for impact/compression/electrical hazards)
- OSHA Alignment: Mandated under 29 CFR 1910.136 for workplaces with foot injury risks.
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Markings: Must be permanently labeled with:
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Material & Construction
- Upper: Typically full-grain leather or equivalent durable materials.
- Closure: Lace-up or pull-on designs ensuring secure fit during movement.
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Employer Responsibilities
- Must conduct workplace hazard assessments to determine needed protections.
- Required to provide compliant footwear at no cost to employees per OSHA regulations.
Summary Table:
| Requirement | Key Specifications |
|---|---|
| Toe Protection | - 75 ft-lb impact resistance - 2,500 lbs compression resistance |
| Electrical Hazard (EH) | - 18,000V AC insulation (1 min) - ≤1mA leakage current |
| Puncture Resistance | - Resists 1.5mm steel pin under 270 lbs force |
| Optional Protections | - Metatarsal guards (75 ft-lb) - Conductive/slip-resistant soles |
| Compliance & Labeling | - Permanent ASTM F2413-18 label - OSHA 29 CFR 1910.136 alignment |
Ensure your workforce is protected with ASTM 2413-compliant safety footwear tailored to your industry’s hazards. As a large-scale manufacturer, 3515 produces certified safety boots and shoes for distributors, brand owners, and bulk clients—all rigorously tested for impact, compression, and electrical hazards.
📞 Contact us today to discuss custom solutions or bulk orders:
- Email: sales@3515footwear.com
- Phone: +1 (800) XXX-XXXX
Our expertise ensures OSHA-compliant footwear that reduces workplace injuries while maximizing comfort and durability. Let’s build a safer workplace together!
