Read the complete label on the exact pair
Canadian safety-footwear symbols use colour and shape to communicate separate protection categories. Read every marking permanently attached to the exact pair. A toe-protection symbol does not automatically prove puncture, electrical, static, metatarsal or chainsaw protection.
Common CSA symbol meanings
| Symbol | Educational meaning |
|---|---|
| Green triangle | Grade 1 protective toe with sole puncture protection. |
| Yellow triangle | Grade 2 protective toe with sole puncture protection. |
| Blue rectangle | Grade 1 protective toe without a puncture-resistant sole. |
| Grey rectangle | Grade 2 protective toe without a puncture-resistant sole. |
| Orange omega | Electric-shock protective footwear category; read its limits and workplace rules. |
| M symbol | Metatarsal protection in addition to required toe protection. |
| Green fir tree | Chainsaw-protection category. |
Why the symbol must match the workplace
The employer's hazard assessment and the applicable Canadian jurisdiction determine which category is required. Do not select by colour memory alone; confirm the complete label, safety code, model and current documentation.
Keep systems separate
CSA symbols belong to the Canadian framework. They do not automatically substitute for ASTM or EN ISO markings. For a product sold into more than one market, verify each claimed system independently.
See the illustrated KPR CSA symbol center and the regional standards entry point.
