Standardisation of signs
We put safety signs into categories based on the type of message they have to show. Each category is given a specific format and set of colours.
Mandatory signs
These signs are used to show actions that you must carry out to comply with statutory requirements. For example, a self-closing fire door that you must close to comply with a fire risk assessment must be labelled with FIRE DOOR KEEP SHUT.
Safe condition signs
These signs are used to show escape routes and emergency exits. Some UK fire safety signs in this category are not required by the Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996. For example PUSH BAR TO OPEN is not required to comply and there is no pictogram with that meaning. You do still need such signs to comply with fire risk assessment and in some cases the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.
Safe condition signs consist of a green rectangle or square with the pictogram or white text in the centre.
Exit signs
Every doorway or other exit that gives access to a means of escape, other than exits in ordinary use, should show an exit sign. Installation of signs conforming to British Standard 5499 will satisfy this requirement.
Illumination of signs
You must be able to see an exit sign at all times. In premises where emergency lighting is necessary for escape, such signs should be illuminated by the emergency lighting supply if the normal lighting fails. Any of the following methods are suitable:
- Lamps external to the sign that give adequate illumination of the sign
- Lamps within the sign (internally illuminated signs)
- Luminous signs requiring no external power source
Fire fighting equipment signs
These signs are used to mark the location of fire-fighting equipment and fire alarm activation points. However, where possible, fire equipment should be positioned where it is clearly visible. The Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996 require red to be used as the identifying colour for fire-fighting equipment. If the equipment itself is red this will satisfy the requirement. Where it is not red then highlighting the position of fire-fighting equipment, by colouring the background behind the equipment red, may be enough to comply.
Fire equipment signs consist of a red rectangle or square with the pictogram in white in the centre of the sign.
