Federal Regulations and Standards
OSHA requires that employers ensure the use of foot protection when working in areas where there is a risk of foot injuries. The relevant standard, 29 CFR 1910.136, specifies that protective footwear must comply with consensus standards such as ASTM F2412-18a and ASTM F2413-18.
Different Types of Foot Protection
Footwear
These are protective shoes or boots designed to be worn independently, offering various safety features based on workplace hazards.
- Steel Toe Shoes/Boots: Incorporate steel reinforcements in the toe area to guard against impact and compression injuries.
- Composite Toe Shoes/Boots: Utilize non-metal materials like Kevlar, carbon fiber, or plastic for toe protection, offering a lightweight alternative to steel.
- Alloy Toe Shoes/Boots: Made with lighter metals such as aluminum or titanium.
- Internal Metatarsal Guard Shoes/Boots: Feature built-in guards to shield the upper foot bones from impacts.
- External Metatarsal Guard Shoes/Boots: Equipped with external guards that cover the laces and metatarsal area for added protection.
- Electrical Hazard (EH) Rated Shoes/Boots: Designed with non-conductive materials to reduce the risk of electric shock.
- Static Dissipative (SD) Shoes/Boots: Help in dissipating static electricity from the body to the ground, protecting sensitive electronic equipment.
- Puncture-Resistant Sole Footwear: Incorporate steel or composite plates in the midsole to prevent sharp objects from penetrating the sole.
- Slip-Resistant Shoes/Boots: Designed with specialized outsoles to provide better traction on slippery surfaces.
- Waterproof Footwear: Constructed with materials that prevent water ingress, suitable for wet environments.
- Insulated Footwear: Designed to retain heat, keeping feet warm in cold conditions.
Accessories
These are add-ons that enhance the protective features of existing footwear, tailored for specific hazards or conditions.
- Removable Metatarsal Guards: External guards that can be strapped onto footwear to protect the upper foot from impacts.
- Toe Caps: Add-on covers that shield the toe area from wear or additional impact.
- Removable Ice Cleats: Attachable devices fitted with spikes or studs to provide additional grip on icy or snowy surfaces.
- Slip-On Traction Aids: Rubber or elastomer products that stretch over footwear to improve traction on slippery surfaces.
- Overboots: Protective covers worn over existing footwear to shield against water, chemicals, or contaminants.
- Shoe Covers: Disposable or reusable covers used to maintain hygiene or protect against minor splashes, to protect against dust, or electrostatic discharge.
- Insoles: Provide additional cushioning or arch support, enhancing comfort during prolonged wear.
- Heel Grips: Prevent heel slippage and improve shoe fit.
- Ankle Guards: Provide additional support and protection to the ankle area.
- Shin Guards: Protect the lower leg from impacts and abrasions.
American National Standards
29 CFR 1910.136 specifies that protective footwear must comply with the ASTM F2412 and ASTM F2413 consensus standards, which outline performance requirements and testing methods for foot protection for the following areas:
- Impact protection
- Metatarsal protection
- Compression protection
- Electrical hazard protection
- Static dissipation
- Puncture resistance
- Dielectric insulation
- Chainsaws
