Viewing Distance Guide

When choosing the size of the sign required for a specific work environment, you must take into consideration available lightning in the area the sign will be located and the viewing distance between the observer and the sign location. Note that in poor lighting conditions, signs that are not likely to fall under the observers line of site will need to increase by 50% of the recommended sizes above.

AS 1319:1994 states the recommended minimum size for a symbolic sign is 15mm per metre of viewing distance. Below is a viewing distance guide designed to help you choose the correct size of sign for a specific work environment.

It is also important that safety signs be positioned to maximise their effectiveness. Obviously, safety signs should be positioned in visible spaces as near as possible to the hazard in question, so long as people still have time to read and interpret the sign before encountering the danger.

General safety reminders can also be placed throughout the workplace in common space areas. All signs should be positioned at eye level and should not be placed on movable objects, such as windows or sliding doors.

Finally, employers looking to use safety signage should also ensure that the meaning and implications of these signs are taught to all new employees during induction.

Ongoing workers should also receive regular reminders and refresher lessons on what the safety signs around their workplace mean.

Understanding Standard AS: 1319

Safety Signs are crucial in any work environment. The primary importance of displaying Safety Signs is to prevent injury and ensure staff and visitors are well aware of the possible dangers and hazards ahead in certain situations and/or environments. Without signs, many employees would lack the necessary direction in times of crisis, and employers might find themselves in significant legal difficulties if any accidents were to arise as a result.

By ensuring the workplace is sufficiently well signed, you can help protect your staff and visitors to the site, particularly members of the public, against the possible dangers that may be unnoticed - leading to less industrial accidents and reduced risk to employees and visitors.

At Easy Safety Signs we have a wide range of signs for you to choose from to ensure you can create a safe, well identified facility. Our range of Safety Signs are designed to meet Australian Standard 1319 which outlines specific parameters for safety signs in an occupational environment.

Mandatory Signs

These signs specify an instruction that must be carried out. Symbols (or pictograms) are depicted in white on a blue circular background. Sign wording, if necessary, is in black lettering on a white background.

Prohibition Signs

These signs that specify behaviour or actions which are not permitted. The annulus and slash is depicted in red over the action symbol in black. Sign wording, if necessary, is in black lettering on a white background.