Uncover the Surprising Differences Between Danger and Warning signs

3 Minutes Read

Danger signs and warning signs both convey important cautionary information, but they have different meanings and implications. The primary difference between danger signs and warning signs is the level of severity of the potential hazard, with danger signs indicating a more immediate threat.

Danger Signs

Danger signs are used to indicate an immediate and life-threatening hazard that requires immediate attention and caution. Failure to do so could result in severe personal injury or death. Examples of these hazards include high voltage areas, hazardous chemicals, and hazardous machinery. Danger signs are red, black and white, and include an image depicting the hazard, such as a skull and crossbones or a lightning bolt.

Where are danger signs displayed?

Safety signs will need to be posted in hazardous areas, around dangerous machinery, by emergency evacuation routes, on pipes, and many other areas around the workplace. A facility or safety manager should assess their workplace and identify hazardous areas with a job hazard analysis.

Warning Signs

Warning signs are used to indicate a potential hazard or danger that may or may not be as an immediate threat as a danger sign. They are intended to alert people to the possible risk they could encounter and the precautionary measures they should take. Examples of these hazards include slippery floors, sharp objects, or hot surfaces. Warning signs usually have a yellow background with black text or symbols.

Where should warning signs be located?

Warning safety signs should be located in a highly visible location in the area of the risk they refer to. The signs should not covered or behind an object that might block people’s view and as close to eye level as possible. Warning symbols should also be installed at the entrance to areas of risks that require personal protective equipment in order to minimise. For example, if there is a specific area of a building site at risk of falling debris, meaning hard-hats must be worn, then appropriate Warning Falling Objects signs and Safety Helmets Must Be Worn signs should be installed before workers reach that area.

In summary, danger signs imply an immediate and life-threatening situation requiring a high level of caution. Warning signs indicate a potential hazard to remind people to be careful and take proper safety precautions. Understanding the different implications of danger signs and warning signs is important for ensuring workplace safety and avoiding accidents.

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