We have been subtly programmed over our lifetimes to associate certain colours and shapes with certain things. Red, for example, is dialled into us all as the colour of danger, green as safety and blue as calming.
There are, of course, many psychological reasons for this but these are associations that have also been reinforced by constant and consistent use, particularly when it comes to health and safety.
Health and safety in the UK
According to the Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations act of 1996, “it is regulation for businesses to display and maintain safety signs in the workplace where there is a potential risk that has not been removed or controlled by other methods.” As a result, many of the signs we see being used today in the UK are standardised so there is an immediate and innate understanding that can be processed instantaneously.
The four colours associated with health and safety are:-
Red – A prohibitory colour used to draw attention to a dangerous situation. They are most often round in shape with a diagonal strike through the centre over a black and white picture. For example, the “no entry” sign and “no smoking” signs. Red is also used in andon displays and beacons to mean stop.
Yellow – In the context of a work environment, yellow or amber is used as a safety sign to warn people of a potentially hazardous environment. Yellow warning signs are often triangular with a black picture detailing the individual hazard. For example, when there is a high voltage present, the typical sign is a yellow triangle with a black lightning bolt symbol. Yellow is also used in andon displays and beacons to mean wait.
Blue – Blue signs are often circular with white text and are used to tell people that a specific action is mandatory in a given area of the workplace. Otherwise known as mandatory signage, these signs dictate a specific action such as guidance to wear certain equipment, deep fire doors shut or keep areas tidy.
Green – The colour of emergency in a workplace context, green signs are usually rectangular and highlight escape routes and first aid stations. The imagery is white and clear and can be used in conjunction with textual prompts. Green is also used in andon displays and beacons to mean go.
Health and safety digital signs
While standard health and safety signs are mandatory in all places of work, many industrial sectors prefer to go a little further by installing high-visibility health and safety LED signs. These branded boards can include a wealth of information such as accident statistics, latest legislation updates, safety reminders, staffing levels, countdowns and more. Most importantly, they can be customised to suit each workplace and the specific risks associated with them.
Lost time accident displays are perhaps the most common use case here as they display how many days have passed since an on-site accident was recorded. These are ideal to be placed at site entrances to boost staff morale and communicate exceptional safety track records. This is particularly true in logistics and distribution centres, where lots of simple information needs to be shared quickly and efficiently.
Health and safety signage is not only suitable for industrial use either. In fact, you will regularly see it used in receptions, kitchens and canteens. Indeed, any situation where the public and staff need to be aware of health and safety protocols.
Image: northallertonman / Shutterstock.com
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