4 Common types of workplace safety signs

Common Types of Workplace Safety Signs

Workplace safety signs are grouped into five common categories which includes: warning signs, prohibitory signs, mandatory signs, emergency signs and fire safety signs. These safety signs serve different purpose and have different appearance which we shall discuss.

Warning safety signs

Warning signs are installed at places where a hazard can occur and lead to an injury. They are placed just before the potential hazard and not after the hazard. Warning safety signs are designed using a yellow triangle and a black boarder. The triangular shape is used to grab your attention while the pictograms which are usually in black are used to communicate the warning. These signs include: slippery floor, high voltage, corrosive chemicals, radioactive material and hot steam.

• Highly flammable material
• Mind your head warning
• High voltage warning
• Rotating machine parts
• Hot surface warning
• Spinning blades warning

Images showing common workplace warning safety signs

 Mandatory signs

Mandatory signs indicate and inform workers and visitors about certain actions or behaviors that they must do so as to stay safe and keep others safe. These safety signs are designed with a blue background and white text or pictogram to indicate the mandatory behavior. They come in a square or rectangular shape. They include:

• Use face mask
• Wear ear plugs at all times
• Wash hands and maintain silence.

• Safety helmets required
• Rubbish disposal points
•  Safety vest required
• Work permit required
• Tidiness required
• Protective gloves required

Images showing common workplace warning safety signs

 Prohibition Signs

Prohibitory signs are used to indicate action or behaviors that have been forbidden so as to maintain safety of all personnel and prevent risk of accidents occurring. They are designed with a white background and a red diagonal line indicating the prohibited action. They may have a circular or triangular shape. The bold text or pictogram usually in black indicates the action or behavior that has been prohibited. Workplace prohibitory safety signs include: No smoking, No use of mobile device, No drinks or food stuff allowed and No entry.

• No littering signs
• No urinating sign
• Do not pick flowers
• Do not make noise
• Temporary access restriction
• No spitting

Images showing common workplace prohibitory safety signs 

Emergency signs

Emergency signs are safety signs used to provide guidance and assistance in emergency situations. They have a green background and a white symbol or pictogram which communicated the guidance message. They are usually rectangular or square in shape. Emergency safety signs are special since their placement is unique. They are usually placed at eye level to ensure it’s easy to read and understand the message it communicates even when in panic. They include: fire exit sign, first aid sign, emergency number sign and assembly point.

• First aid location sign
• Emergency stop button
• Emergency call number
• Emergency shower sign
• Emergency exit sign
• Fire assembly point sign