Recognized by provincial regulators, CSA's Protective Footwear standard is referenced in legislation in many provinces across Canada. The standard outlines testing requirements for toe impact, metatarsal protection, sole puncture protection, electric shock resistance, static dissipation and sole flexing.

Changes since the previous edition of the standard, published in 1992, include new requirements for electrical conductive footwear and chainsaw protection, broadening the workplace applications the standard addresses.

Complementing the standard is a new user's guide on protective footwear. The handbook, "Guideline on Selection, Care and Use of Protective Footwear," is a useful tool for employers, safety professionals and protective footwear users, offering practical tips on how to select appropriate footwear for the job, a list of the different types of footwear available, and how to conduct a foot hazard assessment of the workplace.

The Protective Footwear standard and new user guide are both available from CSA. Email sales@csa.ca or call toll-free 1 (800) 463-6727, or visit www.csa.ca.