An EH rating is one of the most misunderstood marks on a work boot. It does add useful protection, but only under specific conditions, and it’s never a replacement for proper electrical safety practice. Here’s what it means and how to keep it working.
Key points
- EH boots have soles and heels that resist the flow of electrical current.
- They are tested dry. Water, wear and damage reduce protection.
- EH is secondary protection, not a primary safety measure.
- EH, SD and conductive ratings serve different purposes.
What EH means
Under ASTM F2413 and ASTM F2892, EH-rated footwear is tested to withstand 18,000 volts at 60 Hz for one minute with no current flow or leakage above 1.0 milliampere, under dry conditions. The sole and heel act as an insulator between you and the ground. This reduces the chance of a shock passing through your body to the ground if you accidentally contact a live circuit.
What EH does not do
- It does not protect you if the soles are wet, or if you’re standing in water.
- It does not protect against current entering and leaving through your hands.
- It does not replace lockout/tagout, insulated tools, rated gloves or mats.
- It does not guarantee protection at voltages above the test level.
Remember: EH footwear is a backup layer. Your primary protection is de-energising circuits and following your employer’s electrical safety procedures.
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EH vs SD vs conductive
| Rating | Purpose | Typical users |
|---|---|---|
| EH (electrical hazard) | Insulates to reduce shock risk from live circuits | Electricians, maintenance, construction |
| SD (static dissipative) | Lets static drain away slowly to prevent discharge | Electronics assembly, labs, some manufacturing |
| Cd (conductive) | Grounds the body directly to prevent static sparks | Explosives, munitions, volatile environments |
These ratings work in opposite directions. Never wear conductive footwear near live circuits.
Can EH boots have a steel toe?
Yes. The cap is fully enclosed inside the boot and insulated from the ground by the sole. Steel, composite and alloy caps are all used in EH boots. Many electricians choose composite for lower weight and a fully non-metallic build. See comparing safety toes.
What reduces EH protection
- Moisture: wet soles, wet socks and humid conditions
- Wear: soles worn thin, especially at the heel and ball
- Damage: cuts, punctures, nails or metal shavings embedded in the tread
- Modifications: some aftermarket insoles, and repairs that add metal parts
- Contamination: conductive dust or residues built up in the tread
How to look after EH boots
- Inspect soles regularly for cuts, embedded objects and thin spots.
- Keep treads clean and free of metal debris.
- Dry boots fully between shifts. See drying wet boots.
- Check before using aftermarket insoles. Some manufacturers only guarantee the rating with the original footbed.
- Replace boots when the sole is damaged or badly worn.
How to confirm a boot is EH rated
Check the label inside the boot for “EH” on the ASTM line. Our guide to reading ASTM labels shows where it appears. For more on footwear for electrical work, see our electrician’s boot guide.
Frequently asked questions
Can EH boots have a steel toe?
Yes. The steel cap is fully enclosed and insulated from the ground by the sole, so steel toe boots can carry an EH rating.
Do EH boots protect when wet?
EH ratings are tested under dry conditions. Water, sweat, wear and embedded metal can all reduce insulation, so EH boots should not be relied on in wet environments.
What is the difference between EH and SD boots?
EH boots resist current flowing through the sole to protect you from electric shock. SD (static dissipative) boots allow a controlled amount of current to flow to reduce static build-up. They serve opposite purposes.