Protective work boots come is all different shapes and sizes, but not all are created equal. There are many different types of boots for different jobs and staying safe begins by purchasing the right boot for the job. For any worker who may come in contact with live electrical circuits or conductors and parts energized by electrical activity, electrical shock-resistant footwear is a must. Boots that are labeled with an EH are designed to withstand electrical hazards.

All electrical hazard footwear must comply with regulations set by the American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM). All ASTM standards are in compliance with OSHA. Boots labeled with ASTM F2413 are compliant and safe. Electrical hazard work boots are designed with non-conductive soles and heals that are shock resistant. The sole must be designed to minimize shock if it is exposed to an open circuit of 600 volts AC or less. The outsole has additional electric shock prevention qualities to protect the worker. According to Occupational Health and Safety, in dry conditions, these boots have "the ability to with stand 14,000 volts (rms) at 60Hz for one minute with no leakage in excess of 3.0 milliamperes."

It is essential to protect yourself from the possibility of electrocution. In 2001 there were more than 400 reported shock-related deaths, and even if a shock isn’t fatal, it can cause cardiac arrest, nerve, tissue and muscle damage, and thermal and internal burns.

A normal household voltage can be between 110 and 220 volts, but anything over 500 is considered high voltage. High voltage electricity is capable of jumping and traveling through the ground, so it is extremely important to stay back at least 20 feet from any electrical hazard, even if you are wearing protective apparel.

Caring for you electrical hazard boots is very important. Your boots will eventually wear out and need to be replaced. You must keep them dry or this will greatly reduce the amount of protection you will receive from the shoe. Keep the sole clean and free of any conductive materials. When examining your boot check for cuts, cracks, punctures, or embedded conductive material. If you find one or more of these warning signs you should replace the boot immediately as your safety could be at risk.

Resources:

"Protective Apparel: Time to Change?" Occupational Health & Safety 2003

"Protective Footwear: Know when to Give Safety Shoes the Boot"

Occupational Hazards 2005.

"Guide to Protective Footwear Requirements" Professional Equipment.

"Electrical Injury" University of Maryland Medical Center.

"Statistics about Electrocution" Wrong Diagnosis.