Signs
2. Forms of Signs
To adapt to the varied situations that may arise, safety signs may take on different forms:
- By means of colours.
- In the form of a panel.
- Lights or acoustic signals.
- Verbal communication.
- By means of gestures.
For example, how would you react if you received a verbal communication in a language you did not know? Can an acoustic signal in a workstation or environment where there is a high level of noise be effective?
It is not a question of using signs just for the sake of it, but rather that these signs are useful for their target audience.
At a works entrance, above all at those of a certain size, it is common to find a large panel which contains a large number of signs side-by-side obliging us to use many things: a helmet, safety belt, goggles, gloves, mask, ear protectors, anti-perforation inner soles, safety footwear, etc.; and then it is difficult to see another sign on-site reminding us of the obligation to use these elements.
Signposting of this kind is hardly effective, since on seeing so many signs all together we do not pay due attention to any of them. Sometimes the panel that contains these signs may be partially hidden, either by a column, a pile of material, a metal fence or screen, etc., which, by making it difficult to see properly, reduces its efficacy.
The chosen form of sign must be checked regularly, repairing or replacing its deteriorated elements so that its efficacy is not reduced with the passing of time.
Depending on the characteristic of the works and on their expected duration, it is advisable to modify the placement of sign panels every so often so as to break the monotony and make them call people’s attention once more.
2.1. Colours
Colours may constitute a form of safety sign in themselves or form part of one and are used for two different purposes:
- As a safety colour.
- As a contrast to safety colours.
We shall now see what these colours are and the meaning they are each given.
2.1.1. Safety colours
A safety colour is a colour that has a particular meaning attributed to it. Red, blue, yellow or amber and green are safety colours and have similar meanings to those assigned to them in road regulations.
The following chart shows the meaning and application of each one of the safety colours.
As an exception, the background colour of the “noxious or irritant materials” sign will be orange, instead of yellow, so as to avoid confusing it with other similar signs used for regulating road traffic.
| Colour | Meaning | Indications and Clarifications |
|---|---|---|
| Red | Not allowed sign | Hazardous behaviour |
| Danger Alarm |
Stoppage, shut-down, emergency cut-out devices. Evacuation | |
| Fire-fighting material and equipment | Identification and location | |
| Yellow or Amber | Warning sign | Attention, precaution. Checking Dangerous Behavior |
| Blue | Sign indicating an obligation | Specific conduct or action Obligation to use personal protective equipment |
| Green | Rescue or first-aid sign | Doors, exits, passages, material, rescue or first-aid posts, premises |
| Safety situation | Return to normal |
