A key element of health and safety signage is its ability to communicate information clearly and concisely. It must contain enough information to ensure that workers and visitors understand its meaning and use it to prevent accidents and illnesses. Regardless of the industry sector and reason for safety signs, you can find signs that can be used both indoors and outdoors.
The Role of Signs for Health and Safety
While signs don’t need to carry tags, they must be visible from a distance of at least five feet. Some signs may also carry other information, such as a warning or an instruction, so the language of the signs should be comprehensible. They can help communicate important safety instructions, such as where to go in case of a fire or other emergency. They can also direct people to safety equipment. Signs can be used in industrial settings to convey important safety information, such as emergency exits and the location of essential emergency equipment. All exits must have highly visible “Exit” signs. Signs may also be used to designate certain areas as “Not Exit” zones or for specific safety topics, such as sanitation.
In addition to warnings, safety signage can be used to create a heightened sense of safety in a workplace. Red, for example, is used to warn of immediate danger. Its use is particularly important in life-threatening work environments. In addition, yellow signs are often used to draw attention to less serious threats. Orange signs, on the other hand, are used to alert workers to minor or moderate threats.
The Benefits
When used correctly, safety signage can reduce workplace accidents and protect workers. When properly designed, they can even increase productivity. They can also promote an environment that encourages productivity and innovation. Ultimately, health and safety signage can benefit your business and improve its reputation among employers. When used properly, signs can prevent accidents and save money in the long run.
In addition to warning signs, there are other signs designed to provide general notices. They provide guidelines on first aid, medical equipment, and general safety practices. Those signs that contain the safety alert symbol are not meant to be used in dangerous workplaces. However, they are important in commercial settings. The following are some examples of general safety signage:
- Prohibition and warning signs
Prohibition signs are red circles with a black border that tell people not to perform a certain activity. These signs are usually red and are designed to prevent workplace accidents. The black safety symbol on a red circle is a clear indication of what the sign means.
- Mandatory signs
These signs tell people what they must do or obey. In contrast, mandatory signs are white, round, and feature a black border.
