Posting Signs
Signs should be clearly visible, positioned in the line of sight, and free from any obstructions or clutter.
Keep signs well-lighted. Observers should be able to read a sign easily and recognize its safety colour. Lighting should also be sufficient to make any hazard clearly visible.
Post the sign within an appropriate distance from the hazard it is pointing out. An observer must have enough time to see and read the sign and do whatever is necessary to keep safe.
In general, signs should be displayed alone. When signs must be grouped together, place them in an appropriate order.
Use no more than three symbols in the same location.
Ensure that directional signs are visible from all directions. Include arrows on exit signs wherever the direction is not obvious. Directional signs should be posted at a consistent height throughout the workplace. They should also be posted at appropriate locations or decision points so that the route to take is always clear.
Using Easy to Read and Easy to Understand Signs
Help employees and workplace visitors understand signs quickly by using clear language and symbols than can be learned and recognized easily.
Keep symbols as simple as possible; eliminate details that don’t make the message clearer.
Avoid using signs that contain only text messages. A combination of text and symbols is generally the
most effective.
Consider multi-lingual signs if you have employees who do not speak English.