Why signs in the workplace are necessary and understanding what each type of sign ultimately means.
A world without rules is one that would be hard to comprehend because we’re so used to them always being there. A similar case can be said for signage in the workplace; ask anyone, no matter the job role and they will all be able to recall seeing a sign somewhere on the premises. These signs are here to protect employees and employers alike, health and safety affects us all.
It goes without saying that not all signs are suitable for every workplace. However, some premises such as warehouses, workshops, distribution centres etc. will need a much wider range of safety signage as opposed to the likes of a pet shop for example. Fortunately, most signs are categorised and colour coded to make identification much easier, the same applies to traffic signs too.
Sign Awareness
The main four types of signs you will come across are;
Red – PROHIBITED
Circular signs with a red border and white inset with bold black writing and/or numbers. This indicates a task which is not permitted in an area where the sign is present. On occasion, pictograms are used to illustrate the offending task. The most common type of sign, found in and around the majority of workplaces is ‘No Smoking’, after the law which was enforced in 2007. This of course resulted in smoking in a public area (workplace) being prohibited.
Examples:
No Smoking, No Entry, Strictly No Admittance
Yellow – WARNING/DANGER 
Triangular shaped signs with a black border, yellow inset and black writing. These yellow/black signs warn of dangers and/or hazards anticipated. Many of these signs will be familiar to construction workers from seeing them on site and within warehouses.
Examples:
Danger High Voltage, Danger Forklift Trucks, Hazardous Area
Blue – MANDATORY/SITE SAFETY
The least common type of sign outside of an industrial environment; mandatory and site safety. Telling staff and visitors what they need to know or the equipment they need to wear upon progressing any further. Blue and white in colour often with a circular pictogram accompanied by informative text.
Examples:
Keep Out, Protect Your Hands, Fire Door Keep Shut
Green – HEALTH AND SAFETY (Fire Exit/First Aid)
Often rectangular, these signs are green with white writing. Their purpose is to provide information such as which direction to go in or who the first aider(s) are for your workplace. Whilst the red and yellow signs inform you of what not to do in order to prevent harm; green signs advise you of what to do should worse-case scenario hit. Pictograms are often utilised to illustrate a direction. Commonly seen on fire instructive signs e.g. fire exit ->
Examples:
Emergency Eye Wash, Push Bar to Open, Fire Exit
Purpose of Correct Signage and Placement
The purpose of signs is pretty simple, to reduce risk and essentially prevent injury in the workplace. When it comes to large workforces, word doesn’t always get around. This has potential to be damaging if a visitor comes on site and they’re not aware of a deep excavation for example. Another could be that they need to wear eye protection before entering and so on. This is why health and safety goes hand in hand with signage around the workplace.
Depending on the types of sign(s) you’re after, there are plenty of different backings to make it as practical as possible. Rigid PVC, Self-Adhesive Vinyl, Corrugated Plastic and Foamed PVC are just some of the available options, meaning you can position them almost anywhere in the warehouse, on site and anywhere else where they are visible. Be aware of placement with regards to certain directive signs, as ‘fire exit right’ could lead people down the wrong right direction if not placed accurately next to designated area.
Check out our full range of signs suitable for all workplaces. Different fixings and sizes available. Don’t find what you’re after? Give us a call on 01278 783322 and or use our contact form, we’ll do our best to help!
