A Closer Look to the Six Safety Colours

What are the 6 safety sign colours?

Health and safety signs are an essential component of workplace safety in the United Kingdom. They provide crucial information to workers, visitors, and members of the public, informing them of potential hazards and how to avoid them. The health and safety sign colours are carefully chosen to convey specific messages, and it’s important to understand what they mean.

1. Red: Fire protection equipment, emergency stop controls, and other firefighting equipment are all marked with red. It’s also used to indicate danger, meaning that a high risk of injury or death is present. Red is also used for signs indicating the presence of combustible materials.
2. Orange: Orange is used to indicate a moderate risk of injury. It’s often used for guarding devices such as fencing and for warning signs that indicate the need for personal protective equipment.
3. Yellow: Yellow indicates a minor risk of injury as a safety sign colour. It’s commonly used for caution statements, such as “Caution: Wet Floor” signs, and for warning signs indicating the presence of hazardous materials or equipment. Yellow is used for signs indicating the presence of oxidisers.
4. Green: Green is used for safety equipment or information. It’s used for emergency escape and first aid signs, as well as for safe condition signs indicating that an area is free of hazards.
5. Blue: Blue indicates that no immediate hazard is present. It’s used for information signs that provide guidance or directions, such as exit signs or signs indicating the location of safety equipment.
6. White: White is used for signs indicating the presence of poisons or toxins.

In the United Kingdom, these colours are prescribed by the Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996. The regulations specify the colours and shapes that must be used for various types of signs, as well as the wording and symbols that must be included. It’s important for employers and workers to be familiar with these regulations to ensure that they are using the appropriate icons and colours on their safety signs for their workplace.

In summary, understanding the meaning behind safety sign colours is critical for maintaining a safe workplace. By using the appropriate colours and signs, workers and visitors can be made aware of potential hazards and how to avoid them, helping to prevent accidents and injuries. Be sure to follow UK legislation when creating and using safety signs in your workplace.
Please download and print A4 size free safety poster “Meanings safety sign icon and colours” below:

Safety Signs What do they mean