Colors and symbols on safety signs play a big role in changing how people act and making workplaces safer. Decades of research have shown that what we see affects our emotions and actions, which can help stop accidents and keep people safe.
For example, colors send important messages:
- Red means danger and urgency, making people act fast.
- Orange warns of possible hazards.
- Yellow means caution but makes people less anxious and more aware than orange.
- Blue suggests trustworthiness and is good for information signs.
- Green makes people feel safe and secure.
Also, effective symbols give messages everyone can understand. They help people quickly know important information, especially in emergencies. Common symbols include:
- Skull and crossbones (for poison).
- Exclamation mark (for potential danger).
- Flame (for fire hazards).
- Cross (for first aid).
- Hard hat (for safety equipment).
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has rules about some workplace safety signs. (See CFR 1910.144, 1910.145, and 1926.200). But there is a lot of important information that needs to be shared quickly to keep workplaces safe. When making signs, employers are encouraged to use these tips:
1 Choose colors wisely.
Use colors as indicated above: red and orange for warnings, yellow for caution, blue for guidance, and green for safety.
2 Use clear symbols everyone knows.
Pick symbols that can share important messages across languages and cultures.
3 Be consistent and repeat.
Use the same colors and symbols throughout the workplace. This helps workers recognize safety signs better and remember to follow safety rules.
4 Train employees.
Educate workers on what the colors and symbols on safety signs mean. Make sure they understand why following safety rules is important.
5 Comply with regulations.
Keep up with safety standards and rules to make sure your safety signs meet regulations. This makes the workplace safer and protects your business from possible fines.
If your company wants free, private, on-site help to make sure your workplace is safe and following OSHA rules, contact one of our safety experts from the Texas Occupational Safety and Health Consultation (OSHCON) Program at 800-252-7031, option 2, or OSHCON@tdi.texas.gov.