Fire Safety Signs and Their Meanings

Any building you have ever been in, there have been fire exit signs. They are required by law in order to promote a safe exit in the event of a fire. Those signs might not seem like a big deal at the time but can mean a world of difference when the time comes.

It helps to know the litany of different fire signs, what they mean, and how they apply to these situations. Here are a few different fire safety sign times and where you might find them.

Fire Action Signs

As it turns out, there are more fire signs out there than you may realize. One of the most common signage types is the fire action sign. You will find this type of fire sign in business buildings, healthcare buildings and hospitals, industrial buildings, and other public locations.

Fire action signs are typically in blue and white and are meant to demonstrate specific required actions or instructions. There are also red signs that feature symbols of danger, prohibition, and evacuation signs. These are the most common signs out there and are required by many legal and regulatory standards. These also include fire safety instructions and fire action charts including what to do in a fire.

Fire Alarms and Fire Safety Equipment

Another common fire safety sign pertains to fire alarms and equipment meant to fight smaller fires. Local health and safety authorities will require fire safety equipment to be on site. These items can be operated manually in order to put out smaller fires. There is proper signage and language to help promote safe and accurate usage.

Fire alarms must also be available throughout the building. Having fire signs near fire alarms will result in quicker action, which could be the difference between a safe evacuation and disaster. Installing fire alarms and implementing fire safety equipment is also legally required in commercial, industrial, and multi-residency buildings. The installation of red fire fighting signs is required as well to provide clear direction.

Prohibition Signs

There are related signs that aren’t directly talking about fire but can play a role in fire safety. For instance, there are prohibition signs that will keep occupants from doing things that could create a potential fire safety issue. Failure to adhere to these signs can create fire hazards that could have otherwise been avoided.

Prohibition signs warn occupants against potential behaviors that can cause fire hazards or other risks. Signs include things like “authorized personnel only” and “smoking forbidden.” These are in red and have white lettering to strongly contrast the background. These satisfy fire safety legislation as well. Identifying potential hazards can help control the potential risk and keep occupants both informed and safe in the event of a fire.

Hazardous Materials

Another way in which fire safety can be compromised is through improper use of hazardous materials. Hazard warnings are meant to warn people to take proper precautions or to be careful when occupying high-risk areas. The only way these are not legally required is through a risk assessment.

All commercial and multi-resident environments must have proper signage pertaining to hazardous materials. Warning signs are designed to meet proper local and federal standards. These feature yellow backgrounds with black lettering in order to make them clearly visible from afar.

Fire safety is crucial and can be easily implemented. Having proper signage will direct occupants to the nearest exit in the event of an emergency. By meeting proper regulations and ordinances, building owners can avoid potential fines and other penalties related to fire safety requirements and regulations.