Safety is the state of being "safe" (from French sauf), the condition of being protected from harm or other non-desirable outcomes. Safety can also refer to the control of recognized hazards in order to achieve an acceptable level of risk. Here is where workplace safety signs come into play.

Workplace safety signs are designed to alert workers to potential hazards in the workplace. By posting these signs in conspicuous locations, employers can help ensure that workers are aware of the risks associated with certain work tasks and take precautions to avoid injuries.

Workplace safety signs are required in many workplaces by OSHA, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. However, even in workplaces where these signs are not required, they can still be useful in promoting a safe work environment.

There are different types of workplace safety signs, each of which conveys a different message.  So, here are the top 5 safety signs you must use in a workplace.

Safety Fire Signs: Fire safety signs are designed to alert employees and visitors to the presence of fire hazards in the workplace. These signs typically feature bright colors and pictograms to help ensure they are easily noticed. Common fire safety signs include:

• Fire Exit Signs – These signs are typically placed near exits and indicate the direction of the nearest fire exit.
• Fire Alarm Signs – These signs are placed near fire alarms and indicate the location of the nearest alarm.
• Fire Extinguisher Signs – These signs are placed near fire extinguishers and indicate the location of the nearest extinguisher.
• No Smoking Signs – These signs are typically placed near exits and indicate that smoking is not allowed in the area.

Safety Bollards: Bollards are posts or barriers used to protect people and property from vehicular traffic. They are installed in locations where there is a risk of collision, such as around driveways, parking lots, and pedestrian crossings. Bollards can be made from a variety of materials, including steel, concrete, and plastic. There are two types of safety bollards - Fixed safety bollards and removable safety bollards. 

• Fixed safety bollards are permanently installed in the ground and are not intended to be removed. They are typically made from steel or concrete and are used in high-traffic areas where there is a risk of vehicular collision. 
• Removable safety bollards are designed to be removed when not in use. They are typically made from plastic or steel and are used in locations where vehicular traffic is not a constant concern. For example, they may be used to temporarily block off a driveway or parking space.

Anti Slip Tape: Slip and falls are one of the most common workplace accidents. They can happen anywhere there is a wet or slippery surface. To help prevent slips and falls, many workplaces use anti slip tape. This is an adhesive tape that is used to create a non-slip surface on stairs, walkways, and other areas where people might walk. It is usually brightly colored and has a textured surface that can help prevent slips and falls. 

Electrical Hazard Warning Signs: In any workplace where there is electricity, there is the potential for electrical hazards. To protect employees, it is important to have electrical hazard warning signs in place. These signs warn employees of the potential for electrical shocks, fires, and explosions. There are several electrical hazard warning signs, including:

• High Voltage – This sign is used to warn employees of high-voltage areas, such as power lines.
• Shock Hazard – This sign is used to warn employees of areas where they could receive an electrical shock.
• Explosion Hazard – This sign is used to warn employees of areas where there is a potential for an explosion due to electrical equipment or wiring.
• Fire Hazard – This sign is used to warn employees of areas where an electrical fire could start.
• Arc Flash Hazard – This sign is used to warn employees of areas where there is a potential for an arc flash, which is a type of electrical explosion.
• Electrical Equipment – This sign is used to warn employees that they should not touch electrical equipment that is not properly grounded.

Prohibition Signage: Prohibition signs are used to indicate actions or situations that are not allowed. These signs feature a black symbol on a white background, with a red circle and diagonal line running through the symbol. 

For example, No Smoking signs are often posted near flammable materials to prevent fires. No Firearms signs are often posted near places where minors are present, to prevent accidents. No Entry signs are often posted near areas that are off limits to the general public, such as private property or restricted areas.

The Bottom Line

Now that you know what are safety signs and what are different types of safety signs that must be installed in the workplace, what are you waiting for? Find a reliable manufacturer of safety signs and choose the best safety signs to create the safest workplace for your employees.