To avoid a language barrier when people are in dire need of first aid, there are several signs or symbols that are used. Knowing what a first aid sign means is crucial in an emergency to avoid confusion and a delay in the casualty receiving the help that they need.
What are first aid signs?
First aid signs ensure that everyone on the premises is aware of where supplies are in case of an emergency.
Signs for first aid equipment
Some important pieces of first aid equipment have their own identifying signs. For example, an AED or any information pertaining to an AED will be found by a green sign with an image of a white heart with a lightning bolt in the centre.Emergency first aid signs
First aid signs are incredibly useful in an emergency. They enable anyone to be able to find equipment or help, regardless of whether they are in a panic or unfamiliar location. While it is important that staff are informed on where they can find the supplies they will need, having emergency first aid signs will serve as a reminder, should they ever be needed.Symbols used in first aid
There are several symbols that are used in first aid, some are for general first aid, such as the Green Cross and the Red Cross, Crescent, and Crystal, while others are for specific pieces of first aid equipment such as an emergency eyewash or an AED.
Emergency eyewash
A green background with an upside-down shower head and an eye above it in white is the first aid symbol used for an emergency eye wash.
Emergency shower
The image of a figure standing under a running shower in white, on a green background is recognised as the first aid symbol for an emergency shower.
AED
As previously mentioned, a green sign with an image of a white heart with a lightning bolt in the centre is the way for you to tell if an automated external defibrillator (AED) is nearby. The sign may also relay information relating to the lifesaving equipment, such as the person responsible for its upkeep.
Green Cross
The ISO (International Organisation for Standardisation) Standard symbol for first aid is the green cross. This is possibly the most recognised symbol for first aid. The symbol will be found on first aid signs, including those for first aid equipment, across the world.
Red Cross, Crescent and Crystal
This symbol has different colours than the majority of first aid signs. Instead of being green with white symbols, this sign has the three images in red on a white background.
The cross is present as the medical symbol created by the Geneva Convention, the crescent is present as the Muslim equivalent of the red cross (first used in the late 1800s) and the crystal is a religion-neutral version of the red cross (used in countries like Israel).
Asclepius and Caduceus
Both of these symbols are used to indicate something relating to the medical field, particularly in the US. They are largely influenced by Greek mythology.The Rod of Asclepius
The rod of Asclepius is the image of a staff with a snake wrapped around it, generally in white on a blue background. It comes from the Greek god, Asclepius, who was associated with healing and medicinal arts.Caduceus
Often confused with the Rod of Asclepius, Caduceus is the image of two snakes, surround by wings wrapped around a staff. This image comes from Hermes in Greek mythology.The Maltese Cross
The Maltese Cross is sometimes associated with medical needs but is more commonly known as a symbol of protection. It is a black cross on a white background.In the UK, St John’s Ambulance uses the Maltese Cross with its colours inverted (a white cross and a black background) as its symbol.
What do colours mean in first aid signs?
Green
A green background on signs generally indicates safety. For example, it is used to indicate where the nearest fire escape is, or where an assembly point is. It is also, partially for this reason, that it is recognised as the background colour for all first aid signs. If you see a green sign with a white symbol, it is universally recognised as a first aid supply.Another reason for the first aid signs to be in green is due to historical factors. The Geneva Convention began to use a green cross on a white background as the symbol for medical supplies when treating war casualties.
Blue
If you were to see a blue sign you would normally associate it with mandatory signs, informing you of PPE that must be worn or an action that must be carried out.Red
Red is the colour used for fire signs, making it easy to pick out where all of the fire safety information and equipment can be found. It can also be used for prohibition signs, such as “Do not enter”.Yellow
Warning signs are in yellow as it is a bold, eye-catching colour. So, if there is something that could cause injury and people need to be cautious, the emergency sign would be on a yellow background.Where should first aid signs be placed?
First aid signs should be placed in locations where they are required. For example, a sign for a first aid kit should be placed where the first aid kit is being stored, while the sign for a first aid room should be placed on the door of said room.It is important that these signs are visible to all who pass them, so make sure that they are placed at eye level and unobstructed.
First aid signs are an essential part of workplace first aid
First aid signs are essential for any workplace, they inform anyone in the vicinity of where potentially life-saving help and equipment can be found.It is important to always be prepared with the correct type of first aid kit or first aid station for your company, and that everyone is aware of where to find them in case of emergencies.
For more information on first aid signs in the workplace, you can read this blog.
Read our other blogs for more information on first aid or contact us for further advice and information on our products.
By Sarah Mason