Updated September 2025
Safety labels look like alphabet soup—ASTM F2413, I/75, C/75, EH, PR, Mt… This page explains what each code means in plain English, how to read the label on your boot, and which ratings map to the hazards on your job.
How to Read the Safety Label on Your Boot
Most safety info is printed on the tongue label or stamped inside. A typical U.S. label might look like:
ASTM F2413-18 I/75 C/75 EH PR Mt
- ASTM F2413-18 — the standard version your boot is certified to.
- I/75 — Impact protection level 75.
- C/75 — Compression protection level 75.
- EH — Electrical Hazard (secondary protection, dry conditions).
- PR — Puncture-resistant midsole plate.
- Mt — Metatarsal (top-of-foot) protection.
ASTM F2413 (U.S.) — The Core Footwear Standard
ASTM F2413 is the primary U.S. performance standard for safety footwear. Most sites requiring “safety boots” are referring to this.
Impact / Compression
- I/75 — Impact resistance at level 75 (common on job sites).
- C/75 — Compression resistance at level 75.
- Ratings appear together (e.g., I/75 C/75).
Electrical Hazard (EH)
- EH — Secondary protection against accidental contact with live circuits in dry conditions.
- Not a replacement for electrical PPE or safe work practices.
Other Markings
- PR — Puncture-resistant plate in the midsole.
- Mt — Metatarsal guard protection.
- Optional additions include static-dissipative (SD) categories, conductance ranges, etc.
Your site’s PPE handbook should specify which elements you need (e.g., “ASTM F2413 with EH and PR”).
Legacy ANSI Z41
ANSI Z41 was the older U.S. footwear spec. It’s been replaced by ASTM F2413. If you see ANSI on a new product page, the listing hasn’t been updated.
EH vs. ESD — They Are Not the Same
EH (Electrical Hazard)
Protects the wearer from electric shock under dry conditions. Often paired with safety toes on construction sites.
ESD / SD (Electrostatic Dissipative)
Controls static buildup to protect equipment (electronics, manufacturing). ESD ≠ EH; many ESD shoes don’t have EH.
Puncture Resistance (PR)
PR boots include a steel or textile midsole plate that helps block nails and sharp scrap from entering underfoot—valuable for roofing, demo, and scrapyards.
- Steel plate: Very robust; can feel stiffer/heavier.
- Textile (Kevlar/fiber) plate: Lighter, more flexible, still rated for puncture resistance.
- PR is listed alongside ASTM on the label (e.g., “PR”).
Metatarsal Protection (Mt)
Mt covers the top of your foot in addition to the toe cap, guarding against falling tools and slag (welding, foundry, heavy equipment).
- Internal met guards: Cleaner look, less snagging.
- External met guards: Maximum protection; bulkier profile.
Toe Caps: Steel vs. Alloy vs. Composite
Steel
- Thinner cap, very strong.
- Transfers heat/cold.
- Often the most affordable.
Alloy (Al/Ti)
- 30–50% lighter than steel.
- Low-profile shape.
- Can transfer temperature; higher cost.
Composite
- Non-metal; doesn’t trigger detectors.
- Better in cold climates (no chill transfer).
- Can be slightly bulkier than steel.
CSA Z195 (Canada)
Canadian standard covering toe protection, sole puncture, electric shock resistance, and more.
- Look for CSA marks indicating toe, puncture, electric shock resistance, and slip features.
- Some sites in border regions accept CSA or ASTM—always confirm with your PPE handbook.
EN ISO 20345 / 20347 (EU)
European standards. 20345 is for safety footwear (with toe protection), 20347 for occupational footwear (no safety toe).
| Code | Key Features (simplified) |
|---|---|
| S1 | Safety toe + closed heel, antistatic, energy absorption (heel), fuel oil resistance. |
| S1P | S1 + puncture-resistant (plate) and often protective midsole. |
| S2 | S1 + water penetration resistance (uppers). |
| S3 | S2 + puncture-resistant and cleated outsole—popular for construction. |
| SR / SRC | Slip resistance on ceramic/oil surfaces (SRC = top combined rating in older scheme). |
Manufacturers may also list CI (cold insulation), HRO (heat-resistant outsole), WR (waterproof), etc.
Match Your Hazards to the Right Standards
| Hazard / Job | U.S. (ASTM) | Canada (CSA) | EU (EN ISO) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Falling/rolling objects (construction, warehouse) | I/75 C/75 (safety toe) | Toe protection mark | S1/S2/S3 (toe protection) |
| Electrical shock risk (dry contact) | EH (Electrical Hazard) | Electric shock resistance mark | ESD/antistatic (equipment safety) — not EH equivalent |
| Nails/scrap underfoot (roofing, demo) | PR (puncture-resistant) | Puncture-resistant mark | S1P/S3 (plate) |
| Top-of-foot impact (welding, foundry) | Mt (metatarsal) | Metatarsal protection mark | Look for met protection add-on |
| Wet/oily floors (warehouses, kitchens) | Slip-resistant outsole | Slip resistance marking | SR / SRC |
Always confirm with your site’s PPE handbook and local regulations.