Rock Fall has continued to expand and diversify its range in recent years targeting new markets and standards. In this article we will talk about the differences in protection between Anti-Static, ESD and Electrical Hazard.
Anti-Static
Anti-Static shoes have an electrical resistance between 0.1 and 1000 megaohm (M), measured according to EN 20344:2011.
They conduct static electricity through the insole, linings, outsole and into the ground, helping regulate the build-up of electrical charge on a person’s body and help protect against the dangers of static build-up in the workplace.
These are used to reduce the chance of sparks igniting flammable substances or vapours. The aim is therefore to protect those wearing safety shoes (and their colleagues) from dangers related to electrostatic build-up.
ESD
ESD has the same benefit as Anti-Static, however it’s resistance range is much lower. They have an electrical resistance between 0.1 and just 35 megaohm (M), measured according to EN 20344:2011.
For this reason, all ESD compliant footwear is anti-static, however not all anti-static footwear is ESD compliant.
Electrical Hazard
It is very important to understand that Electrical Hazard is an entirely different specification and standard to Anti-Static and ESD.
Electrical Hazard boots are designed to impede the flow of electricity through the shoe and to the ground, reducing the likelihood of electrocution, in accordance with ASTM F2413-18.
The outer surface of the sole and heel shouldn’t be penetrated by any electrically conductive component, like nails in the heel.
EH shock resistant footwear must be capable of withstanding the application of 18,000 volts at 60 Hz for 1 minute with no current flow or leakage in excess of 1.0 milliampere.
Electrical Hazard boots are not meant to be the main source of protection in an electrical hazard environment. EH boots are designed to be used as a secondary source of protection.
