Answer :
Final answer:
Safety footwear must meet ASTM minimum compression and impact performance standards, as OSHA regulations require the use of compliant personal protective equipment.
Explanation:
Safety footwear must meet ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) minimum compression and impact performance standards. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has set forth regulations that require personal protective equipment, including safety footwear, to protect workers from a wide range of serious hazards. While OSHA defines the overall safety requirements, ASTM provides the specific standards that safety footwear must adhere to, ensuring that the footwear is capable of protecting against compression and impact. Employers need to comply with these standards to maintain a workplace that is free from serious recognized hazards, as stated in the General Duty Clause of the OSH Act.