When you look at the tongue or interior of a professional work boot, you will often find a rectangular border filled with a cryptic sequence of letters and numbers. These aren’t just model numbers; they are a standardized language used to verify that your footwear can withstand the specific hazards of your workplace.
Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the safety ratings you may encounter, specifically focusing on the ASTM F2413-18 standard.
1. The Foundation: ASTM F2413-18
The first line identifies that the footwear complies with the Standard Specification for Performance Requirements for Protective (Safety) Toe Cap Footwear updated in 2018. This standard ensures the boots have been tested by an independent third-party laboratory to meet mandatory safety thresholds.
2. Gender and Core Protection (M/I/C)
The second line typically starts with M (Male) or F (Female), indicating the sizing and fit standards used during testing. This is followed by the core “I/C” ratings, which are mandatory for all certified safety-toe boots:
- I/75 (Impact Resistance): Protects the toe area from falling objects. An I/75 rating means the toe cap can withstand an impact of 75 foot-pounds (equivalent to a 75-pound weight dropped from one foot) while maintaining a minimum interior clearance for your toes.
- C/75 (Compression Resistance): Protects against crushing forces. A C/75 rating means the toe cap can resist up to 2,500 pounds of pressure from rolling or heavy stationary objects.
3. Electrical Safety (EH and ESR)
Footwear designed for electrical environments will feature one or both of these marks:
- EH (Electrical Hazard): A U.S. rating signifying the boot has a non-conductive, electrical shock-resistant sole. These are tested to withstand 18,000 volts at 60Hz for one minute with no current leakage exceeding 1.0mA under dry conditions.
- ESR (Electric Shock Resistant): This is the Canadian (CSA) equivalent to the EH rating. Boots marked with both are dual-certified for use across North America.
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- Note: Both are secondary protection meant for accidental contact with live circuits; they should not be the sole defense in high-risk electrical work.
4. Ground Hazard Protection (PR and SR)
- PR (Puncture Resistant): Indicates the boot has a permanent, built-in plate in the sole to prevent sharp objects (like nails or glass) from piercing through to your foot. It must withstand a force of at least 270 pounds.
- SR (Slip Resistant): While SR was formally integrated into the newer F3445-21 standard, many F2413-18 boots include it to show the outsole has been tested for traction on slippery surfaces like oil or water.
Summary Table of Ratings
| Code | Full Meaning | Primary Benefit |
|
ASTM F2413-18
|
2018 Safety Standard | Confirms official certification and testing |
|
M / F
|
Male / Female | Specifies gender-based sizing standards |
|
I/75
|
Impact (75 ft-lbs) | Protects against heavy falling objects |
|
C/75
|
Compression (2,500 lbs) | Protects against heavy rolling/crushing loads |
|
EH / ESR
|
Electrical Shock Resistant | Insulates against accidental live-wire contact |
|
PR
|
Puncture Resistant | Prevents sharp objects from piercing the sole |
|
SR
|
Slip Resistant | Provides extra traction on slick floors |
Pro-Tip:
Always keep your boots in good condition. Replacing original insoles with thick aftermarket ones can sometimes void the I/C rating by reducing the required safety clearance inside the toe cap.