Strategic Placement of Safety Signs in the Workplace: A Practical Guide

High-Risk Areas

Safety signs should always be installed in areas where there's a potential risk or hazard. This could include areas where heavy machinery is operated, locations that house hazardous substances, or places where specific personal protective equipment (PPE) is required. The signs should be placed in a clear, visible location to ensure that they are easily seen before a person enters the hazardous area. 

Entrances and Exits

Safety signs should also be installed at all entrances and exits to a workplace or specific areas within a workplace. These may include fire safety signs indicating emergency exits and muster points, or signs indicating specific requirements or cautions for entering a specific area.

Around Equipment

Areas around machinery and equipment should also have appropriate safety signage. These signs can provide information on operating instructions, potential hazards, or PPE requirements. They should be placed close enough to the equipment to be clearly visible but not in a position where they could become obscured or pose a hazard themselves. 

First Aid and Emergency Equipment Locations

Signs indicating the location of first aid kits, fire extinguishers, eyewash stations, and other emergency equipment are crucial in any workplace. These should be placed directly above or adjacent to the equipment they refer to, at a height that is easily visible from a distance.

Public Areas

In areas accessible to the public, safety signs should be used to indicate any potential hazards or safety requirements. These might include wet floor signs, instructions for safe use of equipment, or signs indicating restricted areas. 

Visibility and Readability

Safety signs should be positioned at an appropriate height and angle for maximum visibility and readability. Signs should be unobstructed and well-lit. They should be placed at eye level where possible, and larger signs may be needed if they are to be read from a distance.