If you're responsible for identifying which boots will keep your teams safe in different work environments, you're probably familiar with the ASTM regulations and OSHA guidelines. But did you know there has been a recent update to ASTM F2413-18? Keep reading to get a simple breakdown of what has changed with this safety footwear regulation and how it affects you.
What Changed With ASTM F2413-18?
ASTM F2413-18 defines the minimum requirements performance footwear must have in order to provide protection against a variety of workplace hazards. There have been two significant updates to the requirement.
The first update states that protective footwear must be tested by an independent third-party laboratory to comply with the ASTM requirements. A Certification of Conformance (COC) must be issued by the third-party laboratory to the manufacturer with the test reports.
The second update involves changes to the way protective footwear is rated and how it is listed on label. The new standard specification states that the markings and labels on all safety footwear must be, "clearly and legibly marked (stitched in, stamped on, pressure sensitive label, etc.) on the inside or outside surface of the tongue, gusset, shaft or quarter lining."
The old label displayed the information as follows:
Impact Resistance - was listed as I/70, I/50, or I/30 lbf depending on impact resistance rating
Compression - was listed as C/75, C/50, or C/30 lbf depending on compact resistance rating
Metatarsal - was listed mt/75, mt/50, or mt/30 lbf depending on metatarsal rating
Static Dissapative (SD) - was previously listed as SD meaning it has an upper limit of electrical resistance of 100 megohms.
Example of old label:
The new label has been updated to reflect the new standards:
Impact Resistance - now simply shown as "I" if impact resistant when subjected to a force of 75 lbf.
Compression - now simply shown as "C" if compression resistant when subjected to a compressive force of 2500 lbf.
Metatarsal - now simply shown as "Mt" if rated to protect metatarsal area of foot with an impact resistance of 75 lbf with a clearance of at least 1 inch.
Static Dissipative (SD) - previously shown only as SD but is now broken down into a range of SD 100, SD 35, or SD 10 on the label. Shoes are rated based on the amount of electrical resistance it provides: For example, SD 100 has an upper limit of electrical resistance of 100 megohms.
Example of new label:
Tips on How to Read ASTM Labels:
We have developed a printable infographic to help you decipher the ASTM label codes. In the infographic, you'll get in-depth guidance on how to read the options in each of these sections.
Construction Materials Key
A key to the materials used in the construction of the footwear is included. This allows you to determine what each symbol represents on the label.
ASTM Label Codes
From impact resistance to specific hazard protection, this section of our infographic will teach you how to read the abbreviated ASTM label. This will help you select the right type of safety boot depending on the hazards in your workplace and what types of protection your team really needs.
Next Steps After Safety Footwear Regulations Research
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