Safety Signs Australia

AS 1319:1994, Safety signs for the occupational environment, specifies requirements for the design and use of safety signs intended for occupational environments. Other laws, standards and codes may apply to specialised signage, including hazardous chemicals, dangerous goods, emergency exits, fire equipment and traffic applications.

The main workplace categories include danger signs, warning signs, mandatory signs, prohibition signs, emergency-information signs and fire-equipment signs. Each category uses a recognised layout and colour scheme to communicate a particular type of message.

A danger sign is intended for hazards or conditions that are likely to be life-threatening. A warning sign identifies a hazard that requires caution but is not generally expected to present the same immediate risk of death.

AS 1319:1994, Safety Signs for the Occupational Environment, is Australia's recognised standard covering the design and use of occupational safety signs. It provides guidance on safety sign categories, colours, symbols and their intended use within workplaces.

Depending on the workplace and industry, additional legislation, Codes of Practice or Australian Standards may also apply.

Blue circular signs generally communicate a mandatory action. They are often used for PPE instructions such as “Eye Protection Must Be Worn” or “Safety Helmets Must Be Worn.

A red circle with a diagonal bar generally indicates prohibition. It tells people that a particular action is not permitted, such as smoking, entering, parking or using an open flame.

Green signs generally provide emergency-related information. They are commonly used to identify exits, first aid facilities, emergency showers, eyewash stations and assembly points.

Yellow safety signs generally warn of hazards or hazardous conditions. Examples include forklift movements, slippery floors, hot surfaces, overhead cranes and trip hazards.

For a permanent outdoor installation, aluminium composite or metal is often preferred because it provides greater rigidity and durability. The correct choice depends on weather exposure, mounting method, location and expected service life.

Polypropylene can be suitable for sheltered or medium-term outdoor use, depending on the product and conditions. For highly exposed or permanent locations, a more rigid metal or aluminium-composite sign may be a better choice.

Reflective signs are useful where the sign may need to be seen at night or in low-light areas when illuminated by vehicle headlights, a torch or another directed light source.

The required size depends on viewing distance, message length, approach speed, lighting and the surrounding environment. Small signs suit close-range applications, while larger signs are more appropriate for site entrances, vehicle routes and open industrial areas.

Yes. Industro can produce custom safety signs with site-specific wording, company logos, emergency contacts, project details, directional arrows, QR codes, sequential numbering and other required information.

Branding can be incorporated into many custom signs, provided it does not make the safety message unclear or interfere with recognised safety-sign conventions.

Yes. Custom sizes can be produced for many applications. Provide the required dimensions, material, quantity and intended location so the most suitable production method can be assessed.

Yes. QR codes can be added to custom signs to direct users to induction forms, safety procedures, SDS libraries, inspection records, emergency information or other online resources. The QR code should not replace essential instructions that need to be immediately visible.

Install the sign where it is clearly visible before a person reaches the hazard or enters the controlled area. Consider lines of sight, lighting, obstructions, viewing distance and every direction from which the area can be approached.

There is no universal mounting height for every safety sign. It should be positioned within the expected line of sight and remain visible in the actual working environment. The correct height depends on whether the viewer is walking, driving, operating machinery or working close to equipment.

Replace a sign when it becomes faded, damaged, unreadable, incorrect or no longer relevant. Outdoor exposure, chemicals, abrasion and impact can all affect service life.

Safety signs can support workplace safety and compliance, but signage alone does not make a workplace compliant. Businesses must identify hazards, assess risks and implement appropriate control measures under the laws applying in their jurisdiction.

If you have questions about specific compliance requirements, material selection, sizing, or need assistance choosing the right safety sign for your facility, please contact us and our expert team will be happy to assist you.