You have probably seen many different types of safety signs ranging from Exit signs to Emergency Stop button placards. But do you still see them when you look? Many times when we see the same things day after day, they tend to blend into the background and loose their intended effect.
We may forget to ensure adequate explanations of the types and meanings of these signs has been given to new employees. Over time safety signs may fade or become damaged such that they are no longer “readable”. OSHA has some specific requirements for the design, placement and types of signs required to notify employees and visitors of hazards and dangerous areas and operations at our facility.
Purpose of Signs: Safety signs provide important specific safety information from warning of dangers, providing instructions and types of personal protective equipment needed. Signs also warn of areas that require special authorization for entry such as confined spaces and service utility areas.
Danger Signs: These signs warn of specific dangers and radiation hazards. OSHA requires that all Danger Signs be of the same type of design. A danger sign should be very obvious to all. Employees must be instructed that danger signs indicate immediate danger and that special precautions are necessary. Danger signs have red as the predominating color for the upper panel; black outline on the borders; and a white lower panel for additional back letter wording.
Caution Signs: Caution signs are used only to warn against potential hazards or to caution against unsafe practices. All employees must be instructed that caution signs indicate a possible hazard against which proper precaution should be taken. Caution signs have yellow as the predominating color; black upper panel and borders: yellow lettering of “caution” on the black panel; and the lower yellow panel for additional sign wording. Black lettering is used for additional wording.
Safety Instruction Signs: Safety instruction signs shall be used where there is a need for general instructions and suggestions relative to safety measures. These signs have a white background with black letters or white letters on a green panel
Sign Design: All signs must have rounded or blunt corners and be free from sharp edges, burrs, splinters, or other sharp projections. The ends or heads of bolts or other fastening devices must be located so that they do not create a hazard.
Nature of wording: The wording of any sign should be easily read with sufficient information to be easily understood. The wording should make a positive, rather than negative suggestion.
Construction Sites: Safety Signs and symbols required must be visible at all times when work is being performed, and shall be removed or covered promptly when the hazards no longer exist.
