Safety signs play a crucial role in ensuring workplace safety by promoting safe work practices in a clear and concise manner. Their primary objective is to safeguard employees from potential hazards and reduce the likelihood of accidents, some of which can be life-threatening. Through visual communication, safety signs convey essential safety messages, helping employees and visitors navigate the workplace safely.
Safety Signs and their purpose:
Safety signs are the key to safety in any workplace, promoting safe work practices with ease. The main idea of the safety signs is to ensure the safety of your employees. As we know, a lot of accidents happen in the workplace, and some can be life-threatening. Signs are designed to reduce the likelihood of injuries by creating visual communication to portray safety messages.
Understanding the Different Types of Safety Signs:
Prohibition signs:
These signs are easily recognisable with their universal “Do Not” symbol. Prohibition signs effectively communicate restrictions and prohibitions to ensure workplace safety. For instance, they can be used in warehouses or factories to indicate areas where walking is not allowed due to the presence of heavy machinery or moving forklifts.
Examples: No smoking (FM10), keep aisles clear (EWM02)
Mandatory signs:
Mandatory signs are clear and authoritative, instructing individuals to comply with specific rules or requirements. A well-known example in recent times is the face mask sign, which obliges individuals to wear face masks. In workplaces, these signs are helpful to indicate the mandatory use of personal protective equipment, like gloves, for certain tasks.
Examples: Social distance, please stand here (SMF01), Social distancing (FM14), temperature checking station (FM16), face mask must be worn (FM17), STOP (FM12)
Warning signs:
Warning signs are of utmost importance in workplaces, as they indicate potential hazards or dangerous areas. These signs are usually triangular and have a bright yellow colour to ensure high visibility and attract attention. They serve as crucial visual cues, urging employees to exercise caution in specific areas.
Examples: Ear protection required (FM02), hardhat area (FM09), safety workwear (FM11), please keep safe distance (FM15), floor slippery when wet (EWM05), Pedestrian traffic (EWM07)
Danger signs:
Similar to warning signs, danger signs also mark hazardous areas. They explicitly instruct people to stay away from these locations as they pose significant safety risks. The standardised format of danger signs ensures they stand out, conveying a sense of urgency and importance.
Examples: Danger (FM01), Forklift crossing (FM08)
Emergency information signs:
Green in colour, emergency information signs mark areas where individuals can seek assistance in case of injuries, emergencies, or when needing aid. They are also informative, providing directions to essential points like fire exits and emergency escape routes. These signs are mandatory in workplaces to ensure employees know what to do in emergency situations and where to find help.
Examples: Emergency exit (FM03), Exits this way (FM04), First aid (FM07), and eyewash station (EWM18)
Fire signs:
Working alongside emergency information signs, fire signs are crucial in the event of a fire. They indicate fire alarms, fire extinguishers, and the appropriate actions to take during a fire emergency. Fire signs provide essential guidance to deal with fire incidents correctly.
Examples: Fire exit (FM05), Fire extinguisher do not block (FM06)
ColorCover
The ColorCover is a custom floor sign option, allowing users to display any written or printed message by placing it below the transparent cover. This feature offers flexibility to showcase specific messages while ensuring visibility and adhesion.
In conclusion, safety signs are indispensable tools for workplace safety. By understanding the different types of safety signs and their purpose, employers can create a safer environment and promote a culture of safety among employees. These visual cues serve as constant reminders of potential hazards and safe practices, ultimately leading to a secure and protected workplace.