Free Hazard Signs Tutorial

Safety, hazard and warning signs ensure that employees, visitors, building occupants, and emergency personnel have adequate information concerning dangers in the workplace. Employers are usually required by law to post and maintain these kinds of signs in appropriate areas.

The ASME (ANSI Z535) and OSHA 1910.145 codes require the use of Safety Signs to indicate and define specific hazards that, without identification, may lead to accidental injury to workers, the public or may also cause property damage. The links at right will help you choose and design the right kind sign for each specific situation.

It is important that hazard warning signs are consistent. By using standardized patterns, phrases, colors, shapes and pictograms you'll increase recognition and avoid confusion.

Also, the wording of signs should be concise and easy to read, and contain sufficient information to be easily understood. The wording should be accurate in presenting facts, and should make positive, rather than negative suggestions.

Both the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the Occupational Safety Hazard Administration (OSHA) have recommended standards for the use of different kinds of warning signs. These standards should be consulted before making signs for your facility.

When making signs, be sure that all signs have rounded or blunt corners and that they do not have sharp edges, burrs, splinters, or other sharp projections. The ends or heads of bolts, or other fastening devices, need to be located in such a way that they are not a hazard.