PPE signs are used in the workplace to inform staff and visitors of what PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) is appropriate and when to wear it. They tend to have a blue background colour with white images on top.
What are PPE signs?
PPE signs are signs that instruct employees and visitors to the site on what PPE to use and in which areas it is mandatory. The PPE could include hard hats, protective clothing or ear protection, for example. Having these signs can help to reduce the number of accidents and limit the severity of those that do occur.
Are PPE signs a legal requirement?
The HSE outline the legality of the use of PPE in the workplace in this article. It states that “Every employer shall take all reasonable steps to ensure that any personal protective equipment is properly used”, meaning that you should have PPE signs to ensure that it is being used appropriately in that area.Also, The Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996 have stipulations laid out on which signs should be used in which workplace and how they are to be used to make people safer at that location.
Types of PPE signs
Mandatory PPE signs
Mandatory PPE signs are used to instruct people on what the correct PPE is for that area. It is a sign that specifically states that an action must be carried out.Informational PPE signs
These signs are used more to advise employees and visitors of any potential risks and hazards that could occur, as well as what needs to be done to prevent them.
Informational PPE signs also include warning signs, for example “Danger, Chemicals”.
Where should PPE signs be located
PPE safety signs should be located at the entrance to the area to which it is referring. For example, when entering a site people may need to wear high visibility clothing and eye protection, so the signs for these should be visible at every entrance. They should be at eye level and unobstructed to make sure they are seen by everyone in the vicinity.
Different types of safety signs
When discussing the different types of PPE signs there are also different types of safety signs, including warning signs to inform people of when there is danger and what it is. The warning signs tend to be yellow to catch the viewers’ attention as they pass by.There are also prohibition signs that are used to tell passersby what can’t be done in that area. For example, if you were to see a sign saying “Do not drink” this would be a prohibition sign.
Another type of safety sign that you should be familiar with in your workplace is the ones revolving around firefighting. They tend to have a red background and point out all the equipment you may need in case of a fire.
The final safety signs you are likely to find in your workplace are the green and white signs, generally associated with first aid or emergency exits.
Our PPE signs
Mandatory PPE signs are important for any workplace to ensure the safety of both staff and visitors, so make sure you have the correct signs available.
More information on preventative safety measures and PPE
- Safety and First Aid Signs and Posters for the Workplace
- Manual Handling Advice
- How To Do A Workplace Risk Assessment
- Most Dangerous Industries for Workplace Accidents in the UK
- Fire Safety in the Workplace
- Eye Injuries in the Workplace
- A Guide to Disposable Overshoes
- Accident Reporting in the Workplace: Procedures and Forms
- How to treat and prevent common DIY injuries
Read our other blogs for more information on first aid or contact us for further advice and information on our products.
By Sarah Mason