Lab Safety: Signs for the Times

Lab safety requires that signage identify hazardous areas that warn workers of danger or provide safety instructions. OSHA states: "All employees shall be instructed that danger signs indicate immediate danger and that special precautions are necessary." The administration also indicates specific colors to be used for danger, caution, and safety instruction signs.

To use these guidelines and customize your own sign, follow these steps:

Select the sign material to meet your needs:

• Adhesive Vinyl—flexible, 4-mil pressure-sensitive material is ideal for your low-cost, light-duty applications
• Plastic—medium-duty, general-purpose, 0.055"-thick polyethylene material is perfect for indoor and sheltered outdoor locations
• Aluminum—0.040"-thick material offers the strength of metal but without rusting. The surface is over-laminated to protect from splashes and dirt for long-term outdoor exposure

Traditional OSHA-style signs and labels are the most widely recognized in the industry. This style of warning sign has been in use for decades. OSHA-style signs use ALL CAPS, and the message is generally centered underneath the header. Choose an OSHA or ANSI header if required to designate the severity of the hazard:

• Danger (red)
• Caution (yellow)
• Warning (orange)
• Notice (blue)
• Safety First (green)