Australian safety signs have been categorised into six types across three areas. This enables a consistent design across similar functions.
By understanding the types of signs and their purpose, you can determine what you need in your workplace and the appropriate areas to display them. Your risk assessment will also help to inform these decisions.
Regulatory Signs
The first two types of safety signs are classified as Regulatory Signs in the Australian Standard AS1319:1994 Safety Signs for the Occupational Environment.
These signs contain instructions on what can’t be done and what must be done.
Prohibition Signs: Can’t Do
This type of signage is used when you need to communicate to people that they cannot do something. This sign is universally recognised, featuring a red circle with a diagonal line through it.
Commonly used Prohibition Signs include “No Entry” signage that prevents people from entering areas and “No Smoking” signs.
Mandatory Signs: Must Do
A Mandatory Sign is used to communicate an instruction that must be followed. These signs utilise a white symbol or pictogram within a blue circle on a white background.
For instance, if your workplace requires the use of PPE protective clothing or equipment, you may be familiar with Mandatory Signs that state “Foot Protection Must be Worn in this Area” or “Hearing and Eye Protection Must be Worn in this Area”.
Hazard Signs
The next two types of safety signs are classified as Hazard Signs. These signs warn others about what may kill or hurt them.
Danger Signs: May Kill You
A Danger Sign is used if you need to warn people about a potentially life-threatening hazard or hazardous condition. A red oval inside a black rectangle with the word “danger” in bold, capital letters, alerts people to the threat.
Common Danger Signs include “High Voltage” and “Do Not Enter”.
Warning Signs: May Hurt You
When a hazard is not life-threatening, a Warning Sign is used to identify the hazard while alerting people that they may still get hurt.
These signs are easy to identify with a yellow background and the outline of a black triangle around a symbol of the hazard.
Informative Signs
The last two types of safety signs are Informative Signs.
Emergency Information Signs: Safety First
Emergency Information Signs alerts people to the location of or provides directions to, the site’s emergency facilities. This includes emergency exits, first aid, or safety equipment.
This signage uses a green background with white writing and symbols. Common examples of this type of sign includes “First Aid Kit” or “Emergency Phone”.
Fire Signs: Fire Equipment
Fire Signs are used to indicate the location of fire equipment. This includes fire extinguishers, fire blankets, and fire hoses.
These signs are bright red, making them easy to sight.
