OSHA has set very specific guidelines for safety signs and tags. The basics for these guidelines can be found in Standard 1910.145. It is important to keep in mind, however, that these are just the basic guidelines and that interspersed within many other standards are additional requirements specific to those safety hazards. So when you review your safety signs, first check them against 1910.145, then against the specific standard relevant to that business specific operation or safety device.

Standard 1910.145 describes in detail the color, dimensions, and design requirements for most signs you will post throughout your facility. This standard was created so that anyone who sees the signs, especially in an emergency situation, will know what they mean. Standardizing signage allows anyone to understand the signage at any facility. It was also created to help guide business owners and safety teams in determining where to place signs and which signs are applicable in which situations. Danger signs, for instance, are used to denote immediate danger. Caution signs, on the other hand, are used to warn against potential hazards. It is still up to you and your staff to determine which hazards at your facility fall into which category.

It is also important to ensure that each sign is in the correct place. Having the right signs in the wrong places can not only be a severe threat to employees, but can also get you significant fines and citations from OSHA. If you are unsure of where to properly place your signs or if your signs are still up to code, it is important to have your facility audited to ensure compliance.

If you have any questions about specific signs, please contact us. And if you have anything to add about safety signage, please leave a comment.