When an impact test is conducted using a steel impact hammer of a specified weight, the clearance height beneath the protective toe cap upon impact must remain below a prescribed limit, and the toe cap must not exhibit any cracks that penetrate through the material along the test axis. It is important to note that standards across different countries vary regarding the weight, specifications, and drop height of the impact hammer, as well as the construction of the testing apparatus; these differences must be taken into account during actual testing.
According to the Chinese national standard GB 21148-2020, impact resistance ratings (toe protection) are categorized into Class AN1 (200 J impact resistance, 15 kN compression resistance) and Class AN2 (300 J impact resistance, 20 kN compression resistance). Class AN1 is suitable for environments with moderate impact risks, such as warehousing, logistics, and general workshop assembly, whereas Class AN2 is intended for high-risk environments, such as construction sites, metallurgical foundries, and heavy machinery processing. International standards (ISO/EN) typically classify footwear into grades such as SB (corresponding to AN1), S1, S2, and S3, with protection levels increasing progressively across these categories.