Every year, thousands of employees throughout the State of North Carolina injure themselves at work.
Whether their injuries are mild or severe, the losses start to add up quickly—for both the worker and their employer. If OSHA gets involved--due to a lack of safety signs, companies can find themselves facing very steep financial fines or penalties.
The safety and security of workers and employees is a prime responsibility for all New Bern employers. OSHA and other state and federal agencies require the posting of various forms of regulatory and safety signs to help keep workers informed of safe practices and job site hazards.
Read on to learn more about common safety signs and regulatory compliance signs that you should have in your New Bern office or job site.
Important note: This blog post should not be taken as legal advice. If you have any questions regarding OSHA, state, or Federal laws, please seek the advice of a licensed attorney.
Classifications
There are three different types of signs that OSHA requires for the workplace. Having a sign posted isn’t enough—OSHA also mandates that the signs adhere to the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) regarding their shape and color. This allows for a more standardized experience and enables new employees to recognize the level of danger instantly.
The three classifications are:
Danger
These signs indicate where employees should take special precautions as there is danger present. You’ll often find these signs where there are dangerous areas such as exposed electrical wiring, chemical storage, or other hazards.
These signs have a safety alert symbol that looks like an exclamation point contained within a triangle. OSHA mandates that the signs only include the colors black, white, and red in conjunction with the word “DANGER” written in capital letters.
Warning
A warning sign warns employees about unsafe practices that could result in death or injury. The design of the sign must feature a black safety alert symbol coupled with an orange background. The colors white, orange, and black may only be used on warning signs coupled with the word “WARNING” in all capital letters.
Caution
You can use caution signs for the office and job site areas with the potential for minor to moderate injuries, such as a slip and fall or a pinch point on a machine. Typical examples are “Slippery When Wet,” “Watch Your Step,” and “Caution Stairway.” OSHA requires these signs to feature the word “CAUTION” in all capital letters and printed in black coupled with a yellow background.
Common OSHA and Regulatory Signs
There are several common OSHA and regulatory signs, such as:
ADA Signage
The Americans with Disabilities Act requires all companies to have specific signage requirements that will allow disabled persons to access their place of business. Over the years, the ADA laws have grown quite lengthy. However, AlphaGraphics of New Bern can help you navigate through the maze and get or remain in compliance.
Our ADA signage features easy-to-read typefaces, appropriate letter sizing, high dark to light contrasting between the font and background, and non-glare characters and backgrounds.
First Aid Signs
In workplace emergencies, the length of time that it takes to seek first aid is of the utmost importance. First Aid signs that show the location of nearby stations can help injured workers or employees quickly get help.
Evacuation/Exit Signs
Wayfinding signs that clearly indicate an exit or evacuation point can help save lives in the event of a workplace emergency.
Poster Signs
OSHA and the ADA require a myriad of easy-to-read, prominently placed posters in common employee areas. Let AlphaGraphics of New Bern help you design and print various poster signs that will help your business remain in compliance while keeping your employees informed of their rights.
Slip, Trip, and Fall Signs
Safety signage that denotes high-risk areas for slips, trips, and falls is essential for your employees and customers. You can use sidewalk signs to warn customers and employees alike of slippery regions—whether it’s due to a spilled liquid or a recently shined floor.
OSHA, ADA, and Regulatory Signage Help in New Bern
When it comes to finding the proper OSHA, ADA, or regulatory sign, let AlphaGraphics of New Bern help. We’ve assisted countless local businesses over the years with their signage needs and can advise you on what you need to get or remain in compliance.
At AlphaGraphics of New Bern, we can provide you with ideas and services to assist with your safety sign needs. To learn more about how AlphaGraphics of New Bern can produce and design your next project, you may
email us,
request a quote, or call us at
(252) 633-3199.