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.
Cold exposure adds another layer of risk, especially when traction, insulation, and safety toes intersect. For real-world examples of how certified footwear performs in snow, slush, and freezing conditions, see our full guide to cold-weather work boots.
Updated January 2026
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
Quick label checklist: confirm ASTM F2413 + the exact extras your site requires (EH, PR, Mt). If the listing doesn’t show the label or certification line, treat it as unverified until you see the tongue tag.
- ASTM F2413-18 is the standard version your boot is certified to.
- I/75 is impact protection level 75.
- C/75 is compression protection level 75.
- EH is Electrical Hazard, secondary protection in dry conditions.
- PR is puncture resistance, typically a plate underfoot.
- Mt is metatarsal protection on the top of the foot.
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 is impact resistance at level 75.
- C/75 is compression resistance at level 75.
- They usually appear together, like I/75 C/75.
Electrical Hazard (EH)
- EH is secondary protection against accidental contact with live circuits in dry conditions.
- It does not replace electrical PPE or safe work practices.
Other Markings
- PR is a puncture resistant plate in the midsole.
- Mt is metatarsal guard protection.
- Some labels also show static dissipative categories and conductance ranges.
Your site PPE handbook should specify what you need, for example ASTM F2413 with EH and PR.
For the official U.S. PPE requirement baseline, see OSHA 29 CFR 1910.136 (Foot Protection).
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 It’s been replaced by ASTM F2413.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)
ESD / SD (Electrostatic Dissipative)
Controls static buildup to protect equipment in electronics and manufacturing. ESD is not the same as EH, and many ESD shoes do not have EH.
Puncture Resistance (PR)
PR boots include a steel or textile midsole plate that helps block nails and sharp scrap from entering underfoot. It matters most in roofing, demolition, and scrapyards. If you work long warehouse shifts, these protective warehouse picker shoes focus more on traction and comfort than puncture plates.
- Steel plate: very robust and usually stiffer.
- Textile plate: lighter and more flexible while still puncture rated.
- PR is listed alongside ASTM on the label.
Metatarsal Protection (Mt)
Mt covers the top of your foot in addition to the toe cap, guarding against falling tools and heavy impacts.
If your work involves overhead impacts or hot metal drops, met guards matter. See our metatarsal guard boot guide for real job matching.
- Internal met guards: cleaner profile and less snagging.
- External met guards: maximum coverage with a bulkier build.
Toe Caps: Steel vs. Alloy vs. Composite
If you’re deciding between safety toe types, start here: what a composite toe is (and when it makes sense).
Steel
- Thinner cap and very strong.
- Transfers heat and cold.
- Often the most affordable.
Alloy
- Lighter than steel.
- Low profile shape.
- Can transfer temperature and usually costs more.
Composite
- Non metal and does not trigger detectors.
- Often feels warmer in cold weather.
- 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, and electric shock resistance.
- Some sites accept CSA or ASTM. Confirm with your PPE handbook.
EN ISO 20345 / 20347 (EU)
European standards. 20345 is safety footwear with toe protection. 20347 is occupational footwear without a safety toe.
| Code | Key Features (simplified) |
|---|---|
| S1 | Safety toe, closed heel, antistatic, heel energy absorption, fuel oil resistance. |
| S1P | S1 plus puncture resistance and protective midsole. |
| S2 | S1 plus water resistance in uppers. |
| S3 | S2 plus puncture resistance and cleated outsole. |
| SR / SRC | Slip resistance on tested surfaces. |
Manufacturers may also list CI (cold insulation), HRO (heat resistant outsole), WR (waterproof), and more.
Match Your Hazards to the Right Standards
| Hazard / Job | U.S. (ASTM) | Canada (CSA) | EU (EN ISO) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Falling or rolling objects | I/75 C/75 | Toe protection mark | S1, S2, S3 |
| Electrical shock risk in dry conditions | EH | Electric shock resistance mark | ESD and antistatic are equipment focused |
| Nails and sharp scrap underfoot | PR | Puncture resistant mark | S1P, S3 |
| Top of foot impact | Mt | Metatarsal protection mark | Met protection add on |
| Wet or oily floors | Slip resistant outsole | Slip resistance marking | SR, SRC |
Confirm with your PPE handbook and local rules.
FAQ
What does I/75 C/75 mean on work boots?
They are ASTM F2413 impact and compression ratings at level 75, showing protection against common falling and crushing hazards.
Is EH the same as ESD?
No. EH is intended to reduce shock risk for the wearer in dry conditions. ESD controls static to protect sensitive equipment.
Do I need PR boots for roofing?
PR is strongly recommended anywhere nails or sharp scrap are common, including roofing, demolition, and scrapyards.
Are composite toe boots safer than steel toes?
Both can meet the same ASTM impact and compression levels. Composite is non metal and often feels warmer in cold conditions. Steel is thinner and very strong. Choose based on hazards and site rules.
Does ASTM F2413 EH mean I’m safe around live electrical work?
No. EH is secondary protection in dry conditions for accidental contact. It does not replace electrical PPE, lockout practices, or jobsite safety procedures.