Guide To Fire Safety Signs

Signs cover for print 6/6/07 4:47 pm Page 1
Fire Protection Association GUIDE TO FIRE SAFETY SIGNS

FOURTH EDITION
FIRE PROTECTION ASSOCIATION

Guide to Fire Safety Signs
Fire safety signs come in many sizes, shapes and colours. They identify a variety
of hazards or indicate necessary actions to those for whose safety they are
provided. There are often specific requirements as to the locations in which they
should be displayed.
The FPA’s Guide to Fire Safety Signs provides advice on these and many other
topics related to the use of fire safety signs. This edition is fully revised in

accordance with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order and the Health and
Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996.
Illustrated throughout in full colour, the FPA’s Guide to Fire Safety Signs is an
excellent reference handbook for those responsible for this aspect of fire safety. It
contains examples of over 160 signs, along with notes on their meaning and
intended location.
Contents: Introduction; Legal requirements and best practice; Means of escape;
Equipment; Use and storage of dangerous substances; Transport of dangerous
substances; Index.
ISBN 1 902790 45-6
The Fire Protection Association

London Road, Moreton in Marsh, Gloucestershire GL56 0RH
Tel: +44 (0)1608 812 500 • Fax: +44 (0)1608 812 501
E-mail: sales@thefpa.co.uk • Web: www.thefpa.co.uk
THE UK’ s NATIONAL FIRE SAFETY ORGANISATION

GUIDE TO FIRE SAFETY SIGNS
Jim Creak and Adair Lewis

First edition: 1996

Second edition: 1997
Third edition: 2005
Fourth edition: 2007

Tel: +44 (0)1608 812 500 • Fax: +44 (0)1608 812 501
© Fire Protection Association 2007
ISBN 1 902790 45-6
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval
system or transmitted, in any form or by any means, without the prior permission in
writing of the publisher, or be otherwise circulated in any form of binding or cover
other than that in which it is published and without a similar condition including this
condition being imposed on the subsequent purchaser.
Copies of this document may be obtained from the Publications Department of the
Fire Protection Association at the above address.
Printed in Great Britain by

Stephen Austin & Sons Limited, Hertford. 2.0/06.07
2
Contents
Introduction ............................................................................................ 5
1. Legal requirements and best practice .................................................................. 6
1.1 Legal requirements .................................................................................... 6
1.2 British and international standards ............................................................ 8
1.3 Illumination and fire safety signs .............................................................. 8
1.4 Durability of fire safety signs .................................................................... 9
2. Means of escape.................................................................................................. 10
2.1 Escape route location signs ...................................................................... 10
2.1.1 National Health Service escape route signs .................................. 10
2.1.2 Siting of escape route signs............................................................ 11
2.1.3 Choosing sign sizes........................................................................ 12
2.1.4 Audit, review and maintenance of escape route signs.................... 14
2.2 Mandatory and maintenance instruction signs........................................ 18
2.3 Emergency exit signs .............................................................................. 20
2.4 Action in event of fire signs .................................................................... 22
2.4.1 Signs showing emergency and evacuation plans and
places of assembly ........................................................................ 22
3. Equipment.......................................................................................................... 26
3.1 Fire alarm and firefighting equipment signs ............................................ 26
3.2 Safe condition signs ................................................................................ 30
3.3 Emergency services information signs .................................................... 32
3.3.1 Fire hydrant signs.......................................................................... 34
4. Use and storage of dangerous substances .......................................................... 37
4.1 Hazardous materials and atmospheres signs ............................................ 37
4.2 Prohibition signs...................................................................................... 40
4.3 Pipelines .................................................................................................. 40
4.4 Compressed gases in cylinders ................................................................ 42
4.5 Hazchem signs on buildings .................................................................. 45
5. Transport of dangerous substances .................................................................... 49
5.1 Hazard warning panels ............................................................................ 50
5.2 Emergency action codes .......................................................................... 51
5.3 Materials of low hazard............................................................................ 52
5.4 Labelling of packages for conveyance ...................................................... 53
5.5 Labelling of packages for supply.............................................................. 55
5.6 Labelling of explosives ............................................................................ 57
Index ............................................................................................................................ 59
3
List of figures
Figure 2.1: The NHS specifies that flames should be incorporated on its escape route signs 11
Figure 2.2: Formula for calculating the maximum viewing distance 13
Figure 2.3: Illustration of sign height and viewing distance 14
Figure 2.4: Appropriate installation of stairway identification signs 24
Figure 4.1: Example of marking a hazardous pipeline 41
Figure 4.2: Example of marking a water pipeline supplying a firefighting system 41
Figure 4.3: A typical cylinder label 45
Figure 5.1: The Hazchem code 52
List of tables
Table 2.1. Examples of maximum viewing distances for externally illuminated escape route signs 13
Table 2.2: Location and identification of escape route signs 15
Table 2.3: Escape route signs with supplementary text 17
Table 2.4: Examples of mandatory notices 18
Table 2.5: Example of an emergency door sign 20
Table 2.6: Examples of emergency door release equipment signs 21
Table 2.7. Fire safety instruction notices 22
Table 2.8: Evacuation plan signs 23
Table 2.9: Stairway identification signs 24
Table 3.1: Examples of fire alarm and firefighting equipment location signs 26
Table 3.2: Fire extinguisher identification signs 28
Table 3.3: Fire class symbols 29
Table 3.4: Other call point signs 30
Table 3.5: First aid and emergency equipment location signs 31
Table 3.6: Signs giving instructions for people with special needs 31
Table 3.7: Examples of signs for the emergency services 33
Table 3.8: Fire hydrant signs 35
Table 4.1: Location and identification of hazardous materials and atmospheres 38
Table 4.2: Hazardous materials and atmospheres combination signs 39
Table 4.3: Prohibition signs 40
Table 4.4: Basic colours for pipeline identification 41
Table 4.5: Colour classification by hazard property 43
Table 4.6: Colours for specific industrial and medical gases 44
Table 4.7: Cylinder colours for gas mixtures for medical or inhalation purposes 44
Table 4.8: Examples of Type A Hazchem signs and meanings 46
Table 4.9: Examples of Type C Hazchem signs and meanings 46
Table 4.10: Examples of Type C.1 Hazchem signs 47
Table 4.11: Examples of Type C.2 Hazchem signs and meanings 47
Table 5.1: Example of Type A hazchem sign and meanings 51
Table 5.2: Danger signs specified by the CDGCPL Regulations 1996 53
Table 5.3: Subsidiary hazard signs specified by the CDGCPL Regulations 1996 54
Table 5.4: Symbols to indicate danger on substances dangerous for supply 56
Table 5.5: Signs required to mark packages or vehicles containing explosives 58
4
Introduction
The aim of this book is to assist those responsible for the management of fire
safety by outlining the current legislative requirements and best practice
regarding the choice and location of fire safety signs.
This edition has been fully updated in accordance with the Regulatory Reform
(Fire Safety) Order 2005, other relevant legislation such as the Health and
Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996, and relevant British and
international standards.
This guide assumes that the need for safety signs has already been established by
a competent risk assessment. The basic principles of risk assessment are
explained more fully in the following section. Such a risk assessment is required
by the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, the Health
and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996 and the Regulatory
Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
Standardised fire safety signs can be categorised as follows:
• escape route location signs;
• means of escape: mandatory and maintenance instruction;
• emergency exit and emergency door release equipment signs;
• fire alarm and firefighting equipment signs;
• first aid equipment location signs and signs giving instructions for people
with special needs;
• hazardous materials and atmospheres signs;
• prohibition signs;
• action in the event of fire signs; and
• emergency services information signs.
These categories form the basis of the structure of this publication. Signs for
dangerous substances (including those needed during transportation and
Hazchem signs on buildings) are also covered, along with signs required to mark
packages or vehicles containing explosives.
5
1 Legal requirements
and best practice
1.1 Legal requirements

The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 came into effect on 1 October
2006. This legislation amends and consolidates more than 118 existing pieces of
legislation into one and applies to the vast majority of premises and workplaces
in England and Wales. The Fire Safety Order removes the need for premises to
apply for fire certificates from their local fire and rescue service and requires every
business to carry out a formal fire risk assessment and to review this regularly.
Where five or more people are employed, risk assessments and reviews of risk
assessments must be recorded. A fire safety manual and a maintenance logbook
may be used for this purpose. The documentation must demonstrate that fire
safety is being effectively managed.
Risk assessment requires the identification and evaluation of hazards in the
workplace, the removal and reduction of these hazards where possible, and the
implementation of control measures to manage any residual risks. This duty
rests with the ‘responsible person’, which in most cases will be the employer.
The responsible person may appoint another person to conduct risk assessments
on their behalf, but the responsible person must ensure that the appointed
person is sufficiently competent.
It is the duty of the responsible person to make sure that all reasonable measures
are taken to ensure that their premises are safe in order to protect their
employees, and anyone who may be on site or within the vicinity of the site.
Consideration of the choice and location of safety signs should be addressed as
part of this requirement and must form part of the risk assessment process. Signs
act as a constant reminder of both fire safety management arrangements and any
safety risks that may remain after the adoption of risk control measures. The
Fire Safety Order includes a specific requirement for emergency routes and exits
to be indicated by signs. It also requires fire safety information to be
communicated to employees and other relevant persons, and safety signs will
help to reinforce formal training and information in this regard.
6
Legal requirements and best practice
Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996

The European Union has recognised the need to have a system of signs and
symbols that can be recognised in workplaces throughout the Union. This is
embodied in the Safety Signs Directive which was adopted in 1992 by all
member states. In the UK (apart from Northern Ireland) this Directive has been
implemented through the Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals)
Regulations 1996, which apply to all places of work. These Regulations came
into force on 1 April 1996. The Regulations also apply to offshore installations
where the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 applies.
These Regulations require the provision and maintenance of appropriate signs
for several purposes. The main purposes are:
• to warn workers of any risk to their health and safety. Employers are required
to conduct a risk assessment as part of their duties under the Management of
Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 and to adopt appropriate
techniques to reduce any risks identified by such an assessment. If a hazard
remains after such measures have been taken, a sign should be provided to
indicate the type of hazard;
• to augment the requirement for fire safety signs made under any other Act or
Regulations – that is, if fire safety signs are required under other legislation,
then the Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996 must
also be complied with. These other Acts or Regulations could include the
Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, the Building Regulations, and
the Housing Act (with respect to houses in multiple occupation).
The Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996 contain
specific requirements for the shape, colour and pattern of signs. The objective is
to provide signs which are readily understandable even if they do not contain
words. To this end, the use of pictograms and colours with clearly defined
meanings are required. A set of such pictograms is described in the Regulations.
The Regulations do more than specify the types of signs and signals to be used.
An important part of these Regulations is the requirement for employers to
provide employees with ‘comprehensible and relevant information’ and to ‘ensure
that each of his employees receives suitable and sufficient training’ in the meaning
of safety signs and the measures to be taken in connection with safety signs. An
employer or their representative will not have satisfied the law just by putting up
the appropriate signs. All employees must be told what the signs mean and what
actions to take in connection with the signs. For example, signs put up to indicate
an escape route must be accompanied by some training so that employees are
sufficiently familiar with the route to use it under emergency conditions.
7
1.2 British and international standards

British and international standards can be called upon to determine best
practice in a court of law. There are various standards which recommend the use
of safety signs to increase the safety of occupants within public and workplace
environments, including:
• BS 5588-12: 2004: Fire precautions in the design, construction and use of
buildings. Managing fire safety; and
• OHSAS 18001: 1999: Occupational health and safety management systems.
Specification.
Other British and international standards cover the choice and location of signs.
These include:
• BS 5499-1: 2002: Graphical symbols and signs. Safety signs, including fire safety
signs. Specification for geometric shapes, colours and layout;
• BS 5499-4: 2000: Safety signs, including fire safety signs. Code of practice for
escape route signing;
• BS 5499-5: 2002: Graphical symbols and signs. Safety signs, including fire safety
signs. Signs with specific safety meanings;
• BS 5499-10: 2006: Safety signs, including fire safety signs. Code of practice for
the use of safety signs, including fire safety signs;
• ISO 7010: 2003: Graphical symbols. Safety colours and safety signs. Safety signs
used in workplaces and public areas; and
• BS ISO 16069: 2004: Graphical symbols. Safety signs. Safety way guidance
systems (SWGS).
1.3 Illumination of fire safety signs
All safety signs require illumination to ensure that they are conspicuous and can
be clearly viewed. Legislation also requires that all safety signs must remain
illuminated under mains power loss or emergency conditions.
This requirement can be satisfied by using emergency power lighting luminaires
or photoluminescent signs in accordance with appropriate British and
international standards, such as BS 5266-1: 2005: Emergency lighting. Code of
practice for the emergency lighting of premises and BS ISO 16069.
Photoluminescent signs
Photoluminescent signs are non-electrical, non-radioactive signs that incorporate
a phosphorescent compound. When an ordinary light source such as daylight,
incandescent or fluorescent light reaches this phosphorescent compound, the
8
Legal requirements and best practice
compound is energised. This energy is stored and when the activating light source
is removed, the compound will continue to emit the stored energy as light over a
period of time.
Photoluminescent signs will illuminate immediately in the event of power
failure. The intensity and duration of the light output is measurable, which
allows the material to be appropriately classified for use within life safety
applications. The supplier should provide a certificate which shows that the
signs meet required performance characteristics. This certificate should be
included within fire safety logbook records. Signs chosen should be certificated
to produce at least three hours’ effective illumination.
Internally illuminated signs

Internally illuminated signs are manufactured of transparent or translucent
material that is illuminated from an integral light source inside or from the rear
to give an appearance of a luminous surface.
An internally illuminated sign used in a non-maintained condition (that is, one
that will only illuminate under mains power failure conditions) will require
illumination from an external light source to ensure it is conspicuous and can be
clearly seen when there has been no mains failure.
Retro-reflective signs
Retro-reflective safety signs are manufactured using materials that reflect light to
give the appearance of enhanced illumination. These signs will be more
conspicuous under lower light illumination than non-retro-reflective signs.
Retro-reflective signs require emergency lighting in the event of power failure.
1.4 Durability of fire safety signs

The Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996 require that
safety signs are suitable for the environment in which they are to be used and, at
the very minimum, that they are shock-resistant and weather-resistant as
appropriate.
Suppliers should give satisfactory assurance regarding the durability and expected
service life for their products, specifically in respect of the characteristics and
environmental categories outlined in BS ISO 17398: 2004: Safety colours and
safety signs. Classification, performance and durability of safety signs.
The Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996 require that
all safety signs must be cleaned, maintained, checked, repaired and, if necessary,
replaced to ensure that they function correctly.
9
2 Means of escape
2.1 Escape route location signs

‘Exit signs’, ‘escape route signs’ and ‘safety way guidance components’ are all
terms used for types of fire safety signs that identify the direction of escape
from any given point within the building. The Fire Safety Order specifically
requires emergency routes and exits to be indicated by signs (Fire Safety
Order, article 14.2.g).
Fire safety instruction and evacuation training should inform building occupants
that, in the event of fire, they should evacuate the area of incident to a safe area
using the designated escape route. Escape route signs should indicate the shortest
route from any point within the premises to a place of relative safety and,
ultimately, to a fire exit which leads to a place of assembly.
An escape route signing system should, from any point within the building,
comprise a series of individual escape route signs using appropriate directional
arrows, which indicate direction and changes of direction and/or level. The
escape route signing system should always give priority to the shortest escape
route from any given point.
As far as reasonably practical, signs within an escape route signage system should
be of similar style, design, size and format.
2.1.1 National Health Service escape route signs

Firecode Health Technical Memorandum 86: Fire risk assessment in hospitals states
that it is not possible to accept or compensate for a lower standard for signing
within the NHS Estates. HTM 65: Signs, published as part of HTM 54-1:
Building components, specifies escape route fire safety signs that adopt flames as a
determinant (see Figure 2.1).
Fire safety signs that comply with HTM 65-2: Fire safety signs and BS 5499-4
also satisfy the requirements of EC Directive 92/58/EEC and their use is
implemented in the UK under the Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals)
Regulations 1996.
10
Means of escape
Figure 2.1: The NHS specifies that flames should be incorporated on its escape route signs.
Research carried out by the NHS compared the British Standard escape symbol with the NHS
symbol and showed that the latter resulted in three times comprehension
2.1.2 Siting of escape route signs

Escape route signs are used to progress an evacuee along the means of escape and
therefore should be sited at all decision points at an appropriate height of around
1.7m on escape route walls and 2.2m when suspended above head height or
positioned above doors.
Signs should be positioned so that any evacuee using a particular escape route
should be able to reliably predict the position of the next escape route sign
immediately after passing any specific escape route sign. The evacuee should be
able to progress through any particular escape route without any conflicting
indications of direction of travel from other escape route signs.
BS 5499-4 (section 4.5) gives more detailed guidance about the siting of escape
route signs, including the following principles:
‘a) at least one escape route or doorway leading to an escape route should be
visible from any place within every room or enclosure. Where this route is not
conspicuous or confusion could occur, the route should be indicated by a sign;
b) where direct sight of the escape route or of the sign indicating the escape route
is obstructed, one or more intermediate signs should be provided;
c) doors or passageways which might be confused as leading to a designated
escape route should be marked clearly;
11
d) escape route signs should take precedence over all other signs. Signs with a
potentially conflicting message (for example ‘No thoroughfare’ and ‘Fire
exit’) should not be used in the same location. Where this conflict is
unavoidable a supplementary text sign (for example ‘Except in an
emergency’) should be provided to override the prohibition message;
e) all changes of direction in corridors, stairways and open spaces forming part
of an escape route should be marked with intermediate signs. Each
intermediate door or junction should be similarly signed;
(Note: Thus, persons escaping along any designated escape route will always
have an escape route sign in sight whenever a choice of direction or door has
to be made.)
f ) so far as is reasonably practicable, signs should be evenly spaced and
consistently located so that the evacuee can effectively and quickly predict the
location of the next sign within the escape route;
g) additional signs should be provided where the line of sight to the next sign
would otherwise exceed the recommended maximum viewing distance for
the chosen size of sign;
h) a sign should be provided wherever confusion may otherwise occur;
i) every designated escape route should lead to a place of safety. A place of safety
should not be provided with escape route signs but may be provided with a
sign indicating ‘Assembly point’;
j) signs should not be fixed to doors or sited where they may be obscured by
opening doors;
k) where commercial or artistic considerations require signs or objects which,
because of their size, brightness, design or proximity, might be confused with
or prevent recognition of an escape route sign, the location of the escape route
sign may be slightly displaced provided safety is not compromised thereby.
Otherwise the confusing signs or objects should be removed;
l) the effectiveness of any escape route sign should not be adversely affected by
the presence of other signs conveying directional information in a similar
format or by other internally illuminated signs or by competing or distracting
light sources.’
2.1.3 Choosing sign sizes

Escape route signs should be conspicuous and easily seen from the required
viewing distance. Viewing distance refers to the maximum distance from which
the sign must be comprehensible.
When determining the minimum sign height (size) necessary for an escape route
sign in a particular situation, both the viewing distance and the illumination of
12
Means of escape
the sign must be taken into account, in accordance with BS 5499-4, section 6.
This standard and other international standards contain a formula for calculating
the maximum viewing distance for a particular size of sign at various levels of
illumination (see Figure 2.2). Any unit of measurement can be used for the
calculation, providing that the unit remains the same for each of the factors.
Further information and guidance can be found in BS 5499-4, section 6.
D = Zas, where:
• D = viewing distance (the maximum distance from which the sign has to be
comprehensible);
• Z = distance factor. Where
the vertical illumination on the
sign is 100 lux, the distance
factor will be 170. BS 5499-4 Sign height = as
requires that escape route signs
be illuminated by at least 100
lux in normal conditions; and
• as = height of sign.
Note: any units of measurement may be used, but the same units must be used for as and D.
Figure 2.2: Formula for calculating the maximum viewing distance
Applying this formula, an escape route sign with a sign height (size) of 0.15m
(150mm) illuminated at 100 lux by a fluorescent source will have a viewing
distance of approximately 20m. It is very unusual for any specific escape route to
have an uninterrupted view in excess of 20m, perhaps with the exception of major
exhibition halls, airport departure or arrival halls or large retail and industrial
warehouses. Figure 2.3 illustrates the application of this formula using different
measurements. Table 2.1 shows examples of maximum viewing distances
calculated using this formula, assuming a vertical illuminance of 100 lux.
Table 2.1. Examples of maximum viewing distances for externally illuminated escape
route signs (based on a table in BS 5499-4; Z is 170)
Sign height (mm) Viewing distance (m)
75 12.7
100 17.0
110 18.7
120 20.4
130 22.1
150 25.5
13
Z = 170
as = 0.10m
D = 17m
C A
B
Figure 2.3: Illustration of sign height and viewing distance. The maximum viewing distance (D) is
17m, Z factor is taken as 170, the sign height (as) is 0.1m. The people A and B are within the range
of viewing, but C is not.
2.1.4 Audit, review and maintenance of escape route signs

The process of audit, review and maintenance of escape route signs should form
an integral part of ongoing fire risk assessment, as required by the Fire Safety
Order. Records of such reviews should be kept if the organisation employs five or
more people. These records may be kept in maintenance logbooks.
When evaluating the effectiveness of fire safety signs, the following questions
should be asked:
• can the escape routes be clearly identified?
• do the identified escape routes offer the shortest routes from any point?
• do the signs progress me to a place of relative safety, for example through a
fire door?
• do the signs then progress me from a place of relative safety to a final exit?
• are there any points along the escape routes where guidance is required and is
not given?
• have there been any changes in the designated means of escape since the last
audit?
The following two tables illustrate escape route signs with graphical symbols and
directional arrows, and escape route signs with supplementary text.
14
Means of escape
Table 2.2: Location and identification of escape route signs

Sign Examples of use/locations Meaning (as viewed from in
front of the sign)
1
Suspended in corridor leading Progress forward from here
to door (indicating direction of travel)
Suspended in open areas Progress forward and through

from here (when sign is sited
Suspended in front of door above door – indicating direction
of travel)
Positioned above door
Progress forwards and up from
Suspended at foot of stairs or here (indicating change of level)
ramp
2
On corridor walls Progress to the right from here
Suspended adjacent to, and to (indicating direction of travel)
the left of, the exit
Suspended at change of
direction
3
On corridor walls Progress to the left from here
Suspended adjacent to exit (indicating direction of travel)
Suspended at change of
direction
4
Suspended at head of stairs Progress down from here
or ramp (indicating change of level)
Suspended at change of level
5
On wall or suspended at head Progress down to the right
of stairs or ramp (indicating change of level)
On half landing wall or stairs
15
Sign Examples of use/locations Meaning (as viewed from in

front of the sign)
6
On wall or suspended at foot Progress up to the right
On half landing wall or stairs Progress forward and across to
Suspended at change of level the right from here (when
suspended within an open area)
Suspended in open areas
7
On wall or suspended at head Progress down to the left
On half landing wall or stairs
8
On wall or suspended at foot Progress up to the left (indicating
of stairs or ramp change of level)
On half landing wall or stairs Progress forward and across to
Suspended at change of level the left from here (when
suspended within an open area)
Suspended in open areas
16
Means of escape
Table 2.3: Escape route signs with supplementary text

Sign Function
1
To clearly mark a doorway or other suitable opening that leads to
a place of safety
2
To clearly mark a doorway or other opening that leads to a place
of safety, which has been provided specifically as an alternative
exit to be used in the event of evacuation
A door marked ‘Fire exit’ may also be used during the day-to-day
occupation of the premises
3
To indicate a doorway or other opening that leads to a place of
safety, which has been provided specifically as an alternative exit
and is intended for use only in the event of the evacuation of the
premises
A door marked ‘Exit for emergency use only’ should not be used
during the day-to-day occupation of the premises
To avoid confusion, ‘Fire exit’ and ‘Exit for emergency use only’
signs should not be used in close proximity to each other
17
2.2 Mandatory and maintenance instruction

Escape routes must be kept clear of obstruction at all material times, both
inside the building and immediately outside the exit. The integrity of the
means of escape is totally dependent on the effectiveness of fire barriers and
passive fire protection. It is essential that all equipment, such as automatic fire
doors, is kept clear and operational.
‘Mandatory’ and ‘maintenance’ fire safety instruction notices are required to
complement formal training and instruction in this matter, in order to help
prevent the spread of fire from one part of the building to another.
Table 2.4 shows examples of mandatory notices giving maintenance instructions,
and outlines their meanings and applications.
Table 2.4: Examples of mandatory notices
Sign Examples of use Function/purpose
1
For use on a self-closing fire To draw attention to a mandatory
door (except an automatic requirement that a fire door is
fire door) kept shut when it is not in use
2
For use on a fire door which is To draw attention to a mandatory
not self-closing requirement that a fire door is
kept locked when it is not in use
3
For use on a fire door, or shutter, To draw attention to a mandatory
which becomes self-closing in requirement that an automatic
the event of fire fire door is not obstructed
18
Means of escape
4
For use on a fire door, or shutter, To draw attention to a mandatory
which becomes self-closing in requirement that an automatic fire
the event of fire, and is kept door is kept clear of obstruction at all
closed at night times and closed at night
5
For use on a door or gate that To draw attention to a mandatory
opens in the opposite direction requirement that (for example), an
of escape inward opening door is secured in the
open position during such time as it
might be needed for the occupants of
a building to escape from fire
6
For use on an escape door or To draw attention to a mandatory
gate that is locked for security requirement that a door is unlocked
purposes when a premises during such time as it might be
is unoccupied needed for the occupants of a
building to escape from a fire
7
For use on a gangway that is To draw attention to a mandatory
used as an escape route requirement that a gangway is not
obstructed
8
For use on an escape door or To draw attention to a mandatory
openings, for example fire requirement that an escape route is
exit doors not obstructed
19
2.3 Emergency exit and emergency door release

equipment signs
Door release and opening mechanisms are provided to override security devices,
speed egress and reduce evacuation time. Therefore, it is important that signs
indicating such devices are conspicuously located and that concise operating
instructions are immediately available in close proximity to the equipment.
Doors that are specifically provided to cater for extra volume of evacuees (as a
function of seasonal or peak performance occupancy) or that are provided as
alternative doors to automatic or rotating exits, should be identified by signs.
British and international standards group signs for egress and emergency door
release equipment within the category of ‘safe condition’ signs. However, these
signs are required specifically to assist escape.
Tables 2.5 and 2.6 show examples of an emergency door sign and emergency
door release equipment signs respectively, and detail their meanings and uses.
Table 2.5: Example of an emergency door sign
Sign Meaning
1
‘Exit for emergency use only’ supplementary text is used to
indicate a doorway or other opening that leads to a place of
safety, which has been provided specifically as an alternative exit
and is intended for use only in the event of the evacuation of the
premises
A door marked ‘Exit for emergency use only’ should not be used
during the day-to-day occupation of the premises
To avoid confusion, ‘Fire exit’ and ‘Exit for emergency use only’
signs should not be used in close proximity to each other
20
Means of escape
Table 2.6: Examples of emergency door release equipment signs
1
In close proximity to, and above, To clearly mark and identify operating
door handle to indicate that door instructions on escape mechanisms
handle turns clockwise to open
2
door handle to indicate that door instructions on escape mechanisms
handle turns anti-clockwise
to open
3
door handle/bar to indicate that instructions on escape mechanisms
door opens outwards by pushing
4
door handle/bar to indicate that instructions on escape mechanisms
door opens inwards by pulling
5
In close proximity to, or on, To clearly mark and identify operating
sliding doors to indicate door instructions on escape mechanisms
slides right to open
6
In close proximity to, or on, To clearly mark and identify operating
sliding doors to indicate door instructions on escape mechanisms
slides left to open
7
panels to indicate that it is instructions on escape mechanisms
necessary to:
1. Break open a panel to obtain
access to a means of opening
2. Break open a panel to open
an exit
21
2.4 Action in the event of fire signs

Fire safety instruction notices should remain simple and include a concise, step-
by-step set of instructions for occupants to follow in the event of fire. These
notices play an important role in complementing formal training in fire safety
and act as a reminder of what to do in the event of a fire. Fire safety instruction
notices should include, as a minimum, the following steps: raise the alarm;
evacuate; proceed to the assembly point.
Where it is appropriate, symbols should be incorporated into a fire safety
instruction notice to increase interest and comprehension. These could include
symbols to indicate a fire alarm call point, escape routes, a ‘do not use lifts’ sign
and an assembly point symbol. While there are no standardised graphical
symbols to represent a fire safety instruction notice, they are normally identified
with the familiar geometric shape (circle), safety colour (blue) and a specified text
(fire action). Procedures should be shown in different languages.
Table 2.7 gives an example of a fire safety instruction notices, together with its
meaning and application.
Table 2.7. Fire safety instruction notices
Sign Meaning and uses
1
Lists simple procedures and actions that occupants must
carry out in the event of fire
Indicates a specific place of assembly
Complements formal training and instructions
Display in close proximity to fire alarm call points
Suitable for offices, stores, or work areas
2.4.1 Signs showing emergency and evacuation plans and

places of assembly
Evacuation plan signs normally provide more detailed information than standard
fire action notices and usually illustrate fire escape routes visually. Evacuation
plans are an integral part of fire safety management, and instruction signs may
be displayed to reinforce staff training about actions to be followed. It is
22
Means of escape
recommended that signs should give instructions to follow in the event of fire and
identify the nearest exits. While there are no standards governing this area, plans
should use familiar symbols to indicate doors, openings and exits, and a clear key
should be included.
Table 2.8 gives examples of evacuation plan signs, together with their meanings
and uses.
Table 2.8: Evacuation plan signs
Sign Examples of use and purpose

1
Lists procedures and actions that
occupants must carry out in the
event of fire
Locates a clear escape route for
a specific area
Assists occupants to orientate
themselves within a specific area
of the building
Display signs at strategic central
points of a building or floor, for
example, reception areas and lift
lobbies
Assists in the management of
fire safety
2
Assists occupants to orientate
themselves within the building
Identifies and locates specific
hazards
Identifies and locates important
equipment for use by occupants
and the emergency services, for
example, fire extinguishers, risers
and hydrants
Assists in the management of
fire safety
23
Naming each stairway in the building after a letter of the alphabet is a concise
and methodical system which should help occupants to identify their location in
an evacuation. Floors should be identified by floor number. It is also advisable
that stairway and floor identification be made from both inside and outside the
stairway, as shown in Figure 2.4.
Externally – identify stairways and floors Internally – identify stairways and
by siting signs at entrances floors by siting signs in stairways
Figure 2.4: Appropriate installation of stairway and floor identification signs
Table 2.9 gives examples of stairway and floor identification signs for use in
evacuation management, and describes their meanings and uses.
Table 2.9: Stairway and floor identification signs

1
Display prominently on both stairway entrances and internally. (See
Figure 2.4). Identify stairways by allocating each one as follows:
Stairway A, Stairway B, Stairway C and so on
Identifies stairways in the building and assists in allocating escape
routes for evacuation plans
Assists occupants to orientate themselves within a building during
an evacuation and assists firefighters with rescue operations
24
Means of escape

2
Display prominently on both stairway entrances and internally (see
Figure 2.4). Identify floors by allocating each one as follows:
Floor +1, Floor +2, Floor +3 and so on
Identifies floors (including basement and ground floor) in the
building and assists in allocating escape routes for evacuation plans
Assists occupants to orientate themselves within a building during
an evacuation and assists firefighters with rescue operations
25
3 Equipment
3.1 Fire alarm and firefighting equipment signs

These are fire safety signs that are required to locate and identify first aid
firefighting equipment, and fire alarms.
Legislation requires that, as appropriate, building occupants receive adequate
training to locate, identify and, if necessary, operate the appropriate first aid
firefighting equipment, including fire alarms. The Fire Safety Order states that:
‘Where necessary… any non-automatic firefighting equipment so provided is
easily accessible, simple to use and indicated by signs’ (Fire Safety Order, 13.1.b).
Company policy regarding whether employees should attempt to tackle small
fires (following training) must be the subject of a risk assessment. However, all
building occupants within any working environment should be familiar with the
location of firefighting equipment provided, including fire alarms. Appropriate
standardised fire safety signs can be an effective way of helping to achieve this.
Table 3.1 gives examples of fire alarm location signs, and explains the meaning of
the graphical symbols and appropriate uses.
Table 3.1: Examples of fire alarm and firefighting equipment location signs
Sign Function/purpose Sign Function/purpose

1 2
To locate a fire alarm call To locate a fire telephone in a
point in a conspicuous and conspicuous and standardised
standardised format format
3 4
To identify and locate fire To locate a fire hose reel in a
extinguishers in a conspicuous conspicuous and standardised
and standardised format format
26
Equipment
Sign Function/purpose
5
To locate a group of firefighting
equipment in a conspicuous and
standardised format
It is widely debated whether a safety sign indicating the location of a fire

extinguisher actually needs to be displayed over a fire extinguisher of the same
colour, if not shape. This is a matter to be decided by a process of risk assessment:
if there is a significant risk that the building occupants could have difficulty
locating the equipment, for whatever reason, then the provision of an appropriate
safety sign sited in a conspicuous position in close proximity to the equipment is
a requirement.
Table 3.1 shows examples of firefighting equipment location signs, together with
their meanings and applications.
There is a significant risk associated with the inappropriate use of firefighting
equipment. It is therefore recommended that a fire safety sign identifying the
type of extinguisher and showing which types of fire the extinguisher can and
cannot be used to tackle is displayed next to the extinguisher to complement
formal training.
Table 3.2 explains the meanings and uses of fire extinguisher identification
signs, while Table 3.3 shows fire class symbols used in fire extinguisher
identification signs.
The risk assessment principle applies to the use of signs to indicate the location
of fire alarm call points. If there is any possibility that building occupants –
including visitors, contractors or personnel – are, for whatever reason, unfamiliar
with the building, then fire alarm call points require an appropriate fire safety
sign to ensure that their location is conspicuous (see Table 3.1 for example signs).
If there are other types of call point equipment installed such as nurse call, first
aid, disability egress or assistance call point devices, it is obviously important to
ensure that they are appropriately identified.
Table 3.4 gives examples of such call point signs, and describes the meanings of
the graphical symbols and appropriate uses.
27
Table 3.2: Fire extinguisher identification signs
Sign Sign Function and usage

1 2
To provide information on the
suitability of various types of fire
extinguisher or firefighting equipment
for different classes of fire or specific
types of fire
In close proximity to, and above,
the equipment to identify the type
of extinguisher or firefighting
equipment and to complement
formal training and instructions
3 4
5 6
28
Equipment
Table 3.3: Fire class symbols
Sign Meaning Sign Meaning

1 2
Safe for use on wood, Not suitable for use on
paper and textiles wood, paper and textiles
3 4
Safe for use on Not suitable for use on
flammable liquids flammable liquids
5 6
Safe for use on gaseous Not suitable for use on
fires gaseous fires
7 8
Safe for use on alkali Not suitable for use on
metal fires alkali metal fires
9 10
Safe for use on live Not suitable for use on
electrical equipment live electrical equipment
29
Table 3.4: Other call point signs

1 2
For use in close proximity For use in close proximity to
to telephone points within a disability assistance call
escape routes point in areas designed
To locate a disability specifically for occupants
assistance telephone in a with special needs, for
conspicuous and example, a toilet for the
standardised format disabled
3 4
For use in close proximity to For use in close proximity to
a disability assistance call a first aid call point
point in a designated safe
area for disabled evacuees
3.2 Safe condition signs
Safety sign standards use the term ‘safe condition’ signs to categorise signs
which indicate the location of first aid equipment and emergency instructions
for people with special needs.
First aid equipment, including specialist rescue equipment, requires conspicuous
location, especially if the equipment is provided for the use of emergency
personnel. Signs should be prominently displayed to indicate the location of the
appropriate equipment.
Tables 3.5 and 3.6 illustrate examples of first aid equipment location signs and
examples of special needs instruction signs respectively, together with their
meanings and uses.
30
Equipment
Table 3.5: First aid and emergency equipment location signs

1 2
For use in close proximity to, For use in close proximity to,
and above, or to the the side and above, the equipment to
of, entrances/equipment to identify the availability of
identify availability of a first a stretcher
aid facility/equipment
3 4
For use in close proximity to, For use in close proximity to,
and above, the equipment to and above, the equipment to
identify an emergency shower identify a first aid/emergency
eye wash
5
For use in close proximity to,
and above, the equipment to
identify a first aid telephone
Safe area directional signs should include the disabled symbol and an arrow to clearly mark a
doorway or other opening that leads to a place of safety for occupants with special needs
Table 3.6: Signs giving instructions for people with special needs
1
Display signs in close proximity to the designated safe
area and along escape routes
For a speedy evacuation, safe areas and safe area
directional signs should not be in opposite directions to
escape routes/signs
Suitable for use in offices, stores, or work areas used
by special needs occupants
31
2
Lists simple procedures and instructions that
occupants at the safe area should carry out in the
event of fire or emergency
Display signs in designated safe areas for occupants
with special needs
3
Lists simple procedures and instructions that
occupants with special needs should carry out in the
event of fire or emergency
Display in close proximity to telephone points within
escape routes
3.3 Emergency services information signs

Signs to assist the emergency services in locating and identifying firefighting
equipment are important, especially when equipment is located in a visibly poor
position.
When a standardised symbol is not available to represent a particular piece of
equipment, a rectangular or square sign with a red background showing flames
in accordance with BS 5499-5 and supported with supplementary text would be
enough to satisfy the requirements of the Health and Safety (Safety Signs and
Signals) Regulations 1996.
Table 3.7 shows examples of signs for the emergency services which locate and
identify equipment.
32
Equipment
Table 3.7: Examples of signs for the emergency services

1 2
To locate a lift specifically To locate a lobby specifically
for the use of attending for the use of attending
emergency services, in a emergency services, in a
conspicuous and standardised conspicuous and standardised
format format
3 4
To locate the foam inlet for To locate the dry riser inlet
the use of attending emergency for the use of attending
services, in a conspicuous and emergency services, in a
standardised format conspicuous and standardised
format
5 6
To locate the dry riser for the To locate the wet riser for the
use of attending emergency use of attending emergency
services, in a conspicuous and services, in a conspicuous
standardised format and standardised format
7 8
To locate the manual control To locate the manual control
point for CO2 release for the point for deluge release for the
use of attending emergency use of attending emergency
services, in a conspicuous and services, in a conspicuous and
standardised format standardised format
9 10
To locate the gas shut off valve To locate the mains water stop
for the use of attending valve for the use of attending
format format
11 12
To locate the fire control panel To locate the sprinkler control
for the use of attending valve for the use of attending
format format
33

13 14
To locate the sprinkler stop To locate the fire pump start
valve for the use of attending button for the use of attending
format format
15 16
To locate the firefighters’ To locate the mains electrical
switch for the use of attending isolation switch for the use of
emergency services, in a attending emergency services,
conspicuous and standardised in a conspicuous and
format standardised format
17 18
To locate a fire plan for the To locate firefighting equipment
use of attending emergency for the use of attending
services, in a conspicuous emergency services, in a
and standardised format conspicuous and standardised
format
19
To locate the dry falling main
for the use of attending
emergency services, in a
conspicuous and standardised
format
3.3.1 Fire hydrant signs

When an emergency water supply is available for firefighting, it will normally be
accessed through hydrants. The location of each hydrant should be shown by an
indicator plate complying with BS 3251: 1976: Specification. Indicator plates for
fire hydrants and emergency water supplies. This standard specifies the
construction, size, content and colour of the plates. There are four classes of
indicator plate – A, B, C and D.
Class A and B plates are the most common plates used for hydrants – examples
of these plates are shown within Table 3.8.
The upper number shown on the plates gives the nominal diameter of the water
main in millimetres (two or three digits). The lower number gives the distance to
the hydrant from the indicator plate in metres (one or two digits). Class B plates
34
Equipment
include a brief address of the hydrant location. Where a double hydrant is

indicated, the ‘H’ is replaced by the symbol shown in figure 3 of Table 3.8.
The numbers described above (and text for Class B plates) are retained.
BS 3251 also specifies designs for plates which indicate emergency water supplies
(class C) or meter bypasses (class D).
Table 3.8: Fire hydrant signs
Sign Explanation of sign
1 Example of a fire hydrant indicator plate

class A
Indicates diameter of water main in millimetres

(100mm in this example)
H = Hydrant
Indicates distance to the hydrant from the plate in

metres (9m in this example)
2 Example of a fire hydrant indicator plate

class B
Indicates diameter of water main in millimetres

(100mm in this example)
H = Hydrant
Indicates distance to the hydrant from the plates

in metres (10m in this example)
Indicates a brief address of the hydrant location
35
Sign Explanation of sign
3 Example of a double hydrant indicator

plate
Indicates diameter of water main in

millimetres (100mm in this example)
Symbol indicates a double hydrant
Indicates distance to the hydrant from the

plate in metres (8m in this example)
36
4 Use and storage of
dangerous substances
There will always be a risk to health and safety from certain substances. Highly
flammable liquids, corrosive substances and oxidising materials present the risk of
fire, and toxic and irritant substances are also common in some industrial
situations. This has been recognised in the various health and safety regulations.
Among other precautions, appropriate signs must be used to warn of the presence
of dangerous substances and the dangers associated with a particular hazard.
The design and application of a safety sign will depend upon the situation in
which it is used and the purpose of the information it has to convey. Where
dangerous substances are being transported by road or rail, there is not only a
need to warn people of a risk to their health and safety, but also a need to provide
information to the emergency services in the event of an accident. The
international nature of trade has resulted in the development of international
agreements on the marking of dangerous substances in transit (see chapter 5).
Signs for marking dangerous cargo are different from those used for health and
safety reasons.
4.1 Hazardous materials and atmospheres signs

‘Hazard signs’ is a term used to categorise safety signs which show the location
and identity of hazardous materials and atmospheres.
The Fire Safety Order requires that, where hazardous substances are present, the
following information must be displayed at the premises, unless this is deemed to
be unnecessary by the risk assessment (Fire Safety Order, article 16):
• information on emergency arrangements;
• details of relevant hazards and identification arrangements;
• specific hazards that are likely to arise at the time of an accident, injury or
emergency; and
• information about warning and communication systems and escape facilities.
37
British and international standards recommend stating the specific hazard

present within each safety sign and indicating the significance of the risk by using
one of the following key words as supplementary text within the sign:
• ‘Danger’ – to signify risk of loss of life;
• ‘Warning’ – to indicate risk of serious injury;
• ‘Caution’ – to signify risk of harm.
Table 4.1 shows examples of hazardous materials and atmospheres signs, and
explains their meanings and uses.
Table 4.1: Location and identification of hazardous materials and atmospheres
Sign Examples of use Sign Examples of use
1 2
A general warning sign Identifies flammable/highly
used with supplementary flammable materials
text to identify a hazard
if an appropriate symbol Display in close
is not available proximity to the hazard
- Display in close proximity
to the hazard
3 4
Identifies oxidising Identifies an explosive
material atmosphere
Dislay in close proximity Display in close proximity
to the hazard to the hazard
Supplementary text should Supplementary text should
be used to indicate the be used to indicate the
degree of risk degree of risk
5 6
Identifies compressed gas Identifies electrical hazard
Display in close proximity Display in close proximity
to the hazard to the hazard
Supplementary text should
be used to indicate the
degree of risk
The signs in Table 4.1 should be located on entrances to stores or work areas
where a hazard exists, or adjacent to and at entrances to sites where hazardous
materials are stored.
38
Use and storage of dangerous substances
Schedule 4 of the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations

2002 (DSEAR) recommends that a sign should be displayed at the entrance to
areas where an explosion may occur.
Legislation also requires that building occupants are informed of appropriate risk
control measures, such as the prohibition of smoking or the use of mobile
phones. Combination signs warn of a particular hazard and indicate any activities
which must or must not be carried out within the vicinity of the hazard.
Table 4.2 gives examples of hazardous materials and atmospheres combination
signs, together with their meanings and uses.
Table 4.2: Hazardous materials and atmospheres combination signs

1 2
Identifies a flammable Identifies an explosive
hazard and indicates a atmosphere and indicates
prohibitory measure to prohibitory measures to
reduce risk reduce risk
For display in close For use in explosive hazard
proximity to the hazard environments; for example,
area involved petrol stations, laboratories,
be used to indicate the
degree of risk
3
Identifies an electrical
hazard and indicates a
prohibitory measure to
reduce risk
For display in close
proximity to entrances
of hazard areas
39
4.2 Prohibition signs

‘Prohibition signs’ is a term used to categorise safety signs that are required to
enforce risk control measures. These signs may prohibit specific behaviour,
access or use of equipment which may be deemed to increase fire or health and
safety risks. Table 4.3 illustrates a range of these signs and sets out their uses.
Table 4.3: Prohibition signs

1 2
Display prominently in Display prominently in
areas or entrances to areas or entrances to
areas where smoking is areas where naked flames
prohibited are prohibited
be used to indicate
prohibited behaviour
3 4
Display prominently in Display prominently in
areas or entrances to areas where use of a
areas where use of mobile ladder is prohibited
phones is prohibited Supplementary text should
be used to indicate
prohibited behaviour
5
Display prominently in
areas or entrances to
areas where entry is
prohibited
be used to indicate prohibited
behaviour
4.3 Pipelines
Although not required by law, it is good practice to identify the contents of
pipelines carrying liquids or gases by colour coding. The scheme for this is
described in BS 1710: 1984 (1991) Specification for identification of pipelines and
services. This scheme provides standard colours for basic identification and a
system for establishing a colour code for site services (see Table 4.4).
40
Table 4.4: Basic colours for pipeline identification

Pipe contents Basic identification Example
colour names
Water Green
Steam Silver-grey
Oils – mineral, vegetable or animal Brown
Combustible liquids
Gases in either gaseous or Yellow ochre
liquefied condition (except air)
Acids and alkalis Violet
Air Light blue
Other liquids Black
Electrical sevices and Orange
ventilation ducts
Where the substance carried in the pipe presents a hazard, further markings are
needed. In addition to the basic colour or code describing the contents of the
pipeline, yellow coloured bands should be included at key points to indicate a
warning. The yellow banding should be supplemented by a hazard warning sign
and the name of the substance or nature of the hazard included as text. The key
points are possible danger areas such as valves, joints and penetration points
through partitions. Although the colour banding is not required by law, the
provision of the warning sign is a requirement of the Health and Safety (Safety
Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996, and the sign should be a yellow warning
sign with appropriate pictogram as described above (see Figure 4.1).
METHANE
Figure 4.1: Example of marking a hazardous pipeline
Pipelines carrying firefighting media, including water or steam, should have

signal red coloured bands in addition to the basic colour. This is the safety colour
for firefighting services recommended in the British Standard and should include
pipework carrying water for sprinkler systems (see Figure 4.2).
Figure 4.2: Example of marking a water pipeline supplying a firefighting system
41
Where it is necessary to indicate the direction of flow of a gas or liquid in a

pipeline, this should be shown near the area with the identification colour and
should be painted on the pipework in black or white to give a clear contrast. If a
coded label is used instead of a safety colour, the label should be shaped with a
point indicating the direction of flow.
4.4 Compressed gases in cylinders

Many substances used in industry are kept as gases under pressure in metal
cylinders. Apart from the hazard of a gas under pressure, there is also a risk arising
from the chemical nature of the gas itself. Both these aspects should be clearly
explained to employees likely to encounter such containers in the course of their
duties, together with the safe practices required when dealing with the substances.
To assist and reinforce this, a convention has been developed for the marking of
cylinders to indicate the type of chemical contained in the cylinder and the type
of hazard posed. In addition, areas where compressed gases are in use or stored
should be marked with the appropriate hazard warning. For example, a hydrogen
store would need the ‘Flammable substance’ and ‘Risk of explosion’ warning signs.
Gas cylinders are used in many sectors of industry and commerce and may be
subject to the following:
• the cylinder colouring convention for industrial gases specified, as in
BS EN 1089-3: 2004: Transportable gas cylinders: Gas cylinder identification
(excluding LPG). Colour coding. This standard is applicable to industrial gases
and is not used for LPG cylinders, or firefighting gases;
• the colour code for cylinders of medical gases, as set out in ISO 32-1977:
Gas cylinders for medical use – Marking for identification of content. (There is
no conflict between ISO 32 and BS EN 1089-3);
• the requirements of the relevant parts of BS 5306: Fire extinguishing
installations and equipment on premises that cylinders of gases used for fixed
fire extinguishing systems are coloured signal red; and
• the LP Gas Association’s codes of practice regarding the colours of cylinders
used for the supply of liquefied petroleum gases.
BS EN 1089-3 is a standard for the colour coding of compressed gas cylinders
which came into effect on 1 July 2006. A harmonised colour coding scheme was
necessary for safety reasons because of the increased movement of cylinders across
the borders of EU countries.
As it will take some time for all cylinders currently in use to be retested and
repainted, increased care must be taken with the storage, selection and use of gas
cylinders throughout industry and commerce. The new colour coding is
illustrated in Tables 4.5 and 4.6.
42
The colour coding applies only to the shoulder, or curved part, at the top of the
cylinder and indicates the properties of the gas within. Where a gas has more than
one property, two concentric bands may be used. (Some suppliers may choose to
paint the two colours in quarters around the shoulder.) This colour coding by
hazard property is indicated in Table 4.5.
Table 4.5: Colour classification by hazard property

Gas type New colours
Inert Bright green
Oxidising Light blue
Flammable Red
Toxic and/or corrosive Yellow
A number of points should be remembered:

• it is the cylinder label – not the colour code – that is the primary means of
identifying the contents of gas cylinders;
• the colour coding applies to industrial and medical cylinders;
• the colour coding applies only to the cylinder shoulder;
• the use of a stencilled letter ‘N’ referred to in BS EN 1089-3 is not used in
the UK;
• the bodies of the cylinders may be coloured for other purposes but suppliers
will select colours that do not conflict with the colour code on the shoulder
of the cylinder; and
• colour coding of cylinders in bundles/packs is not a requirement of BS EN
1089-3, but may be used for safety reasons.
In addition to the colour coding of the shoulder of the cylinders, a number of
gases have been assigned a specific colour which suppliers may use to paint the
whole cylinder. It is also a legal requirement in the UK that the whole bodies of
acetylene cylinders be painted maroon. (It should be noted, however, that
acetylene cylinders originating in some other European countries may be painted
in a colour more like brick red.) The cylinder colours relating to specific gases and
gas mixtures are shown in Tables 4.6 and 4.7.
43
Table 4.6: Colours for specific industrial and medical gases

Gas type Colours
Acetylene C2H2 Maroon
Oxygen O2 White
Nitrous oxide N2O Blue
Argon Ar Dark green
Nitrogen N2 Black
Carbon dioxide CO2 Grey
Helium He Brown
Table 4.7: Cylinder colours for gas mixtures for medical or inhalation purposes
Gas type Colours
Air or synthetic air White
20%≤02≤23% Black
Helium/oxygen He/O2 White
Brown
Oxygen/carbon dioxide O2/CO2 White
Grey
Oxygen/nitrogen O2/N2 Bright green
O2<20%
Oxygen/nitrogen O2/N2 Light blue
O2>23%
Oxygen/nitrous oxide O2/N2O White
Blue
44
All gas cylinders have to be labelled to indicate their contents. Figure 4.3 shows
the layout and information that is available on a typical label that would be
placed around the neck of a gas cylinder. It is important to remember that it is
this label that is the primary means of identifying the contents of a gas cylinder.
A XXXX UN 1978 I
H EC Label E
PROPANE C3 H8 EC No. 2008279 G
vapour withdrawal
XXXX Form 4563 F
C
• Keep container in a well-ventilated space
Gross weight N kg
K
• Keep away from ignition sources
• No smoking 2 For further information see 'Safety Data Sheet'
B Pressure to 7.5 bar J

YYYYYYY max at 15°C
D
A Company name G EC number, if applicable

B Address of the company in the UK H Product name
C Risk and safety phrases relating to the I UN identification number and proper
product shipping name (given by product name)
D Hazard symbols J Any additional company information
E EC label (for pure substances only) K Emergency contact telephone number
F Revision number (gas company use to
identify label revision)
Figure 4.3: A typical cylinder label
4.5 Hazchem signs on buildings

In the area administered by the London Fire and Civil Defence Authority, Hazchem
placards may be required to be displayed on the outside of buildings containing
dangerous substances. This is intended to warn the fire brigade of potential hazards
and is enforced by the Authority under the powers given to it under the Greater
London Council (General Powers) Act 1975. Similar powers endowed upon several
other local fire authorities over the years were repealed and replaced by the
Dangerous Substances (Notification and Marking of Sites) Regulations 1990.
There are three types of warning signs, Type A, B and C.
Type A signs – These signs indicate stores or areas that contain one or more
dangerous substance of the same code. the signs incorporates the word ‘Hazchem’
and include the Hazchem Code (see section 5.2 p.51).
Type A.1 signs – These signs indicate stores or areas that contain one or more
dangerous substances of the same code. The signs incorporate the word
‘Hazchem’, the Hazchem Code and the nature of the hazard, for example
‘Biological’, ‘Radiation’ or ‘Cylinder’ (see figure 2 in Table 4.8).
45
Table 4.8: Examples of Type A Hazchem signs and meanings

Sign Meaning
1
Indicates that, in the event of fire, fog (2) is the firefighting agent
to use, full body protective clothing including breathing apparatus
and gloves is required and evacuation should be considered
2
Indicates a cylinder hazard and that in the event of fire, fog (2) is
the firefighting agent to use, full body protective clothing including
breathing apparatus and gloves is required and evacuation should
be considered
Type B signs – These signs indicate stores or areas that contain compatible
dangerous substances of more than one code number. The signs incorporate
the words ‘Hazchem multi-storage’ and include the Hazchem Code
(see figure 1 in Table 4.9).
Type B.1 signs – These signs indicate stores or areas that contain compatible
dangerous substances of more than one code number. The signs incorporate
the words ‘Hazchem multi-storage’, the Hazchem Code, and the nature of the
hazard, for example ‘Biological’, ‘Radiation’ or ‘Cylinder’ (see Figure 2 in
Table 4.9).
Table 4.9: Examples of Type C Hazchem signs and meanings

Sign Meaning
1
Indicates that, in the event of fire, foam (3) is the firefighting agent
to use, full body protective clothing including breathing apparatus
and gloves is required, a violent or even explosive reaction is
possible and evacuation should be considered
2
Indicates a cylinder hazard and that, in the event of fire, foam (3)
is the firefighting agent to use, full body protective clothing
including breathing apparatus and gloves is required, a violent or
even explosive reaction is possible and evacuation should be
considered
46
Type C.1 signs – These signs provide advance warning of the presence of
dangerous substances and incorporate the words ‘Warning Hazchem’. They may
also include a directional arrow or arrows if deemed necessary by the authority.
The nature of hazard can also be indicated in words, for example ‘Biological’,
‘Radiation’ or ‘Explosive’ (see Table 4.10).
Table 4.10: Examples of Type C.1 Hazchem signs
Sign Meaning
1
To provide advance warning of the presence of
dangerous substances
2
dangerous substances, with a directional arrow for
clarity
3
dangerous substances, with a directional arrow for
clarity
Type C.2 signs – These signs provide advance warning for sites containing a total
of 25 tonnes or more of dangerous substances. Each sign is appropriate to the
nature of the hazard (see Table 4.11).
Table 4.11: Examples of Type C.2 Hazchem signs and meanings

1 2
General warning symbol Warning of toxic risk/poison
to signify general warning.
Requires supplementary
text to give further
information
3 4
Warning of oxidising risk. Warning of flammable risk/
Requires supplementary material/substance
information
47

5 6
Warning of explosive risk. Warning of biological risk
Requires supplementary
information
7 8
Warning of corrosive risk. Warning of radioactive risk/
Requires supplementary material/substance
information
9
Warning of compressed
gas. Requires
supplementary text to
give further information
48
5 Transport of dangerous
substances
As mentioned in chapter 4, the international nature of trade has resulted in the

development of international agreements on the marking of dangerous
substances in transit. These have been embodied in the recommendations made
by the United Nations Committee of Experts on the Transport of Dangerous
Goods. (Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods is published by the
UN and is updated regularly). This committee has adopted the following classes
and sub-classes of hazard:
• Class 1: Explosives;
• Class 2.1: Flammable gases;
• Class 2.2: Non-flammable, non-toxic gases;
• Class 2.3: Toxic gases;
• Class 3: Flammable liquids (three sub-classes);
• Class 4.1: Flammable solids;
• Class 4.2: Substances liable to spontaneous combustion;
• Class 4.3: Substances which in contact with water emit flammable gases;
• Class 5.1: Oxidising substances other than organic peroxides;
• Class 5.2: Organic peroxides;
• Class 6.1: Poisonous (toxic) substances;
• Class 6.2: Infectious substances;
• Class 7: Radioactive substances;
• Class 8: Corrosive substances; and
• Class 9: Miscellaneous dangerous substances.
These recommendations have been incorporated into UK legislation in the
Carriage of Dangerous Goods (Classification, Packaging and Labelling) and Use
of Transportable Pressure Receptacles Regulations 1996 (CDGCPL Regulations).
49
The classification of explosives in the various regulations controlling the

packaging and transport of explosives is also based on the UN recommendations.
The UN classifications are used to assign specified warning labels for the marking
of packages for transport and form part of the CDGCPL Regulations.
The same classes are used to assign the warning signs to be included in the hazard
warning panels required by the Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road
Regulations 1996 and the Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Rail Regulations
1996. (See next section on hazard warning panels.)
The warning signs required by the CDGCPL Regulations are shown in
Table 5.3 (page 53) together with descriptions of the dangerous properties of a
substances that would need to accompany the warning signs.
The precise characteristics of a substance that determines which classification
should be assigned to it are given in schedule 1, part 1 of the CDGCPL
Regulations.
The substances themselves may be identified by a unique number assigned by the
United Nations Committee of Experts. If a substance is not on the UN list, a
number will be assigned by the Health and Safety Commission. The substance
identification numbers are to be found in the approved lists published from time
to time by the Health and Safety Commission. On occasions, the number may
not refer to a single substance but may be a more general classification, for
example bisulphates and aqueous solutions.
5.1 Hazard warning panels

Road vehicles carrying dangerous goods must display, on the outside of the
vehicle, the appropriate information concerning the hazard. The type of
information to be displayed depends on the type of conveyance and is prescribed
in the Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road Regulations 1996.
All vehicles carrying dangerous goods, whether in bulk or in packages, must
display a blank orange-coloured rectangular panel with a black border on the
front (minimum dimensions 300 × 400 mm). Where the dangerous goods are in
packages, an orange-coloured panel should also be displayed on the rear of the
vehicle. Any danger signs and subsidiary hazard signs required by the CDGCPL
Regulations to be displayed on the packages must also be displayed on the outside
of the vehicle and on any containers in which the packages are conveyed.
Where the dangerous goods are in bulk in a tank, tank container or container,
the information must include the emergency action code, the UN number, the
appropriate danger sign and a contact telephone number. The usual way in which
50
Transport of dangerous substances
this is displayed in the UK is on a hazard warning panel. This method is allowed

by the 1996 Regulations and a typical example is shown in Table 5.1. The
Regulations require that these warning panels are mounted on the rear and each
side of the vehicle.
Table 5.1: Examples of Type A Hazchem signs and meanings
Sign Explanation
1
The telephone number is that where specialist advice may be
obtained. It may be replaced by ‘Contact local depot’, provided
the fire authority has been informed of the contact details for
3
the depot. The fifth panel may be left blank or contain the
Telephone No manufacturer’s logo. The code in the top left panel is explained
in the following section on mergency action codes.
The Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road Regulations 1996 allow an alternative

set of warning signs for bulk dangerous goods. This is in line with practice in the
rest of Europe and may be found on vehicles travelling from mainland Europe.
This system requires the same safety information to be displayed, but in a different
format from the hazard warning panel. Essentially, the same orange colour is used
and the same information is required, but the information is laid out differently.
For single bulk loads, the emergency action code and UN number should appear
on the same panel at the rear and on each side of the vehicle.
For multi-loads, the panel on the rear of the vehicle should contain only the
emergency action code with a blank space below. Each side of each of the various
compartments should carry an orange-coloured panel containing the appropriate
emergency action code and UN number.
In both cases the telephone number and danger and subsidiary hazard signs
should also be on the rear of the vehicle and each side of the vehicle or
container(s).
5.2 Emergency action codes

On most occasions of fire or spillage it is not necessary for the firefighters or other
emergency action teams to be able to identify the precise name of the material(s)
involved. What they do need to know, however, is the action that needs to be
taken immediately to reduce the threat to people or property. The Hazchem code
is now a legal requirement under the Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road
Regulations 1996, where it is referred to as the emergency action code. The code
should only be applied to dangerous substances which appear in the Approved
51
Carriage List published by the Health and Safety Executive under these
Regulations. That list indicates which codes should be applied to which
substance. The Hazchem code consists of one number followed by one or two
letters, which are coded according to the scheme in Figure 5.1.
Figure 5.1: The Hazchem code
Code Meaning
Firefighting 1 JETS
agent 2 FOG
3 FOAM
4 DRY AGENT
Actions Key:
P V
FULL V= Can be violently or
R
even explosively
S BA reactive
V DILUTE
S BA for FIRE only
FULL = Full body protective
T BA clothing with BA
T BA for FIRE only BA = Breathing apparatus
W V plus protective gloves
FULL
X
Y BA
V CONTAIN
Y BA for FIRE only
Z BA
Z BA for FIRE only
E CONSIDER EVACUATION
Thus, the code 2WE, which is commonly seen on road tankers, indicates that a
fire should be fought with fog (or, in the absence of fog equipment, a fine spray
may be used). The firefighters should wear full body protective clothing with
breathing apparatus and should be aware that the materials involved can be
violently or even explosively reactive. A spillage should be contained rather than
diluted. The first priority, if in any doubt, must be to evacuate the immediate
vicinity of the incident and to request the assistance of police.
5.3 Materials of low hazard

The Chemical Industries Association (CIA) operates a voluntary scheme, using
black and white labels, for use on domestic tankers carrying substances of low
hazard. These labels are similar to the conventional hazard warning panels, but
the hazard warning diamond is replaced by a written warning. A trade name,
52
common name or description replaces the substance identification number. The

emergency action code still appears (allotted on the advice of the CIA), and the
panel is completed by a contact telephone number.
5.4 Labelling of packages for conveyance

There are also requirements for the labelling of packages containing dangerous
substances that are to be transported by road or rail. These are laid down in the
CDGCPL Regulations. The objective of these Regulations is to safeguard those
involved in handling such substances while in transit. The signs are used to
indicate the danger posed by the substances. The specified signs are shown here
in Table 5.2. Containers should be labelled with one sign to indicate the main
danger, but may also have a subsidiary sign to indicate other hazards. The
subsidiary hazard signs are shown in Table 5.3.
Table 5.2: Danger signs specified by the CDGCPL Regulations 1996
Sign Classification Sign Classification
1 2
Non-flammable, Toxic gas
non-toxic gas
2 2
3 4
Flammable gas Flammable liquid
2 3
5 6
Flammable solid Spontaneously
combustible
substance
4 4
7 8
Substance which Oxidising substance
in contact with water
emits flammable gas
4 5.1
53
Sign Classification Sign Classification

9 10
Organic peroxide Toxic substance
5.2 6
11 12
Infectious substance Corrosive substance
6 8
13
Other dangerous
substance
Table 5.3: Subsidiary hazard signs specified by the CDGCPL Regulations 1996
Sign Subsidiary hazard Sign Subsidiary hazard
1 2
Liable to explosion Danger of fire
(flammable gas)
3 4
Danger of fire Danger of fire
(flammable liquid) (flammable solid)
54
Sign Subsidiary hazard Sign Subsidiary hazard

5 6
Liable to spontaneous Danger of emission
ignition of flammable gas
on contact with
water
7 8
Fire intensifying Toxic
hazard
9
Corrosive
The detailed hazardous properties defining each classification are given in

schedule 1, part 1 of the Regulations. The number in the bottom corner of a sign
specified by these Regulations is the first digit of the UN classification. the
exception is oxidising agents, where organic peroxides – which are exceptionally
unstable and hazardous – are distinguished from more stable but still hazardous
oxidising agents by using the full classification (5.1 for oxidising agents and
5.2 for organic peroxides).
As can be seen from Tables 5.2 and 5.3, the signs relating to packages for
transport are based on the diamond shape with standard colour patterns. These
colours and patterns, together with the diamond shape, differ from other non-
transport safety signs, but the hazard symbols are virtually universal.
5.5 Labelling of packages for supply

Before dangerous substances can be supplied to the market they must be correctly
packaged and labelled. This is controlled by the Chemicals (Hazard Information
and Packaging for Supply) Regulations 2002 (CHIP 3), which require specified
labels to be used on containers for supply or use.
55
The labels must include the following details:

• the name of the substance;
• the name and address of the company or person supplying the substance;
• the indications of the danger and corresponding symbol(s);
• the risk phrases;
• the safety phrases; and
• for a substance (not a preparation), the EC number.
The objective of these labels is to ensure that anyone handling a package
containing a dangerous substance is aware of the hazard and associated risks (the
risk phrases) and has advice on safe procedures (the safety phrases).
The phrases required and the classification of substances are specified in the
Regulations. Examples of risk phrases include ‘highly flammable’ and ‘toxic
inhalation’, while examples of safety phrases incude ‘keep away from heat and
‘keep away from combustible material. Many substances have been classified by
the EC experts, and are listed, together with the associated phrases, in the
Approved supply list, published by the Health and Safety Executive. The Executive
also publish an approved guide on the classification and labelling of substances
and preparations under the CHIP Regulations, the Approved classification and
labelling guide.
The required warning symbols are also specified in the Regulations and are listed
in Table 5.4.
Table 5.4: Symbols to indicate danger on substances dangerous for supply (as specified
in the Chemicals (Hazardous Information and Packaging for Supply) Regulations 2002)
Symbol Indication of danger Symbol Classification
1 2
Explosive Oxidising
3 4
Extremely flammable Highly flammable
56
Symbol Indication of danger Symbol Classification

5 6
Very toxic Toxic
7 8
Harmful Corrosive
9 10
Irritant Dangerous for the
environment
Further information regarding CHIP 3 is available in the following:

• Approved supply list. Information approved for the classification and labelling
of substances and preparations dangerous for supply (Eighth edition), L142,
HSE Books;
• Approved classification and labelling guide (Fifth edition), L131, HSE;
• Compilation of safety data sheets (Approved code of practice) (Third edition),
L130, HSE Books;
• CHIP for everyone, HSG 228, HSE Books;
• The idiot’s guide to CHIP, INDG 350, HSE Books; and
• Read the label: How to find out if chemicals are dangerous, INDG 352, HSE
Books.
5.6 Labelling of explosives

The classification, packaging and carriage of explosives are controlled by Regulations
with labelling requirements similar to those for other dangerous substances
described in previous chapters. A diamond is the basic shape of the warning signs.
They are based on United Nations recommendations. An additional warning for
road transport, in the form of a blank orange rectangle with a black border, is
required to be displayed on the front and rear of a road vehicle carrying explosives.
There are three formats for the diamond shaped warning signs, and these signs are
57
are the same for packages and vehicles (both road and rail). These are shown in
Table 5.5. The format used depends on the classification and compatibility group to
which the explosive belongs. This is defined in the Regulations. For road vehicles or
rail wagons carrying explosives, the signs should be displayed on the sides of the
vehicle or wagon.
Table 5.5: Signs required to mark packages or vehicles containing explosives (as
specified in the Classification and Labelling of Explosives Regulations 1983 and the
Carriage of Explosives by Road Regulations 1996)
Sign Location
1
To be displayed on the front and rear of road vehicles carrying
exlosives
2
To be displayed on packages or the sides of vehicles or rail
wagons containing explosives in Division 1.1, 1.2 or 1.3. (The
numbers refer to the Class, 1, and the Division, 1.1, 1.2 or 1.3,
and the letter refers to the compatibility group)
The word ‘EXPLOSIVE’ may appear above the Divison number
3
To be displayed on packages or the sides of vehicles or rail
wagons containing explosives in Division 1.4 or 1.5. (The
numbers refer to the Class, 1, and the Division, 1.4 or 1.5, and
the letter refers to the compatibility group)
4
To be displayed on packages, vehicles or rail wagons containing a
hazardous explosive substance which is not in Class 1, or on the
sides of vehicles carrying explosives in connection with an
application for their classification
The divisions and compatibility groups are defined in the respective regulations.
58
Index
Index
acetylene cylinders, see cylinders dangerous substances, signs for 37-48,
action in the event of fire signs 22-25 49-58
audit and review 14 Dangerous Substances (Notification and
automatic fire doors 18, 19, 20 Marking of Sites) Regulations 1990
45
British Standards Dangerous Substances and Explosive
BS 5266 8 Atmospheres Regulations 2002
BS 5306 42 (DSEAR) 39
BS 5499 8, 10, 11-12, 13, 32 door release equipment signs 20-21
BS 5588 8 durability of fire safety signs 9
BS EN 1089 42, 43
BS ISO 16069 8 emergency action codes 50, 51-52, 53
BS ISO 17398 9 emergency and evacuation plans, signs
showing 22-25
call points 22, 29-30 emergency door signs 20-21
CDGCPL Regulations – Carriage of emergency services information signs
Dangerous Goods (Classification, 32-36, 37, 45-48, 51-53
Packaging and Labelling) and Use of escape route location signs 10-17, 22-23
Transportable Pressure Receptacles evacuation plans, see emergency and
Regulations 1996 49-50, 53-55 evacuation plans
Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road exit signs, see escape route location signs
Regulations 1996 50-52 extinguisher identification signs 26-28
Carriage of Explosives by Road explosives 49, 50
Regulations 1996 57-58 Hazchem signs 46, 47, 48, 52
Chemicals (Hazard Information and signs 38, 39, 56, 57-58
Packaging for Supply) Regulations
2002 (CHIP 3) 55-57 Firecode 10
Chemical Industries Association (CIA) firefighters’ signs, see emergency services
52-53 information signs
Classification and Labelling of firefighting equipment signs 26-28,
Explosives Regulations 1983 57-58 32-34
competent person 6 fire alarm signs 22, 26, 29
containers for dangerous substances fire certificates 6
42, 50, 51, 53, 55 fire class symbol signs 27, 29
corrosive substances 37, 43, 48, 49, 54, fire hydrant signs 23, 34-36
55, 57 fire safety instruction notices 18-19,
cylinders, gas 42-45 22-25, 30-32
acetylene 43-44 Fire Safety Order, see Regulatory Reform
colour classification 42-44 (Fire Safety) Order 2005
industrial gas 42, 43, 44 first aid equipment location signs 30-31
labels 43, 45 flammable liquids 29, 37, 49, 53, 54
medical gas 42, 43, 44 flammable gases `
floor number, see numbering of floors
59
formula for maximum viewing distance mandatory notices, see maintenance

12-14 notices
means of escape 10-25
gas cylinders, see cylinders mobile phones, see prohibition signs
Greater London Council (General
Powers) Act 1975 45 National Health Service 10-11
numbering of floors 24-25
hazard, classes of 49
hazard signs 23, 37-48, 49-58 oxidising materials 37, 38, 43, 47, 49,
hazard warning panel 50-52 53, 55, 56
hazardous materials and atmospheres
signs 37-48, 49-58 photoluminescent signs 8-9
Hazchem pipelines 40-42
code, see emergency action codes places of assembly, signs showing 12, 22
signs 45-48, 51 prohibition signs 39-40
Health and Safety (Safety Signs and
Signals) Regulations 1996 5, 7, 9, 10, Recommendations on the Transport of
32, 41 Dangerous Goods 49-50
height of signs, see size of signs Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order
hydrants, see fire hydrant signs 2005 5, 6, 7, 10, 14, 26, 37
responsible person 6
illumination of fire safety signs 8-9, retro-reflective signs 9
12-13 risk assessment 5, 6, 7, 14, 26, 27,
instruction notices, see fire safety 29, 37
instruction notices
internally illuminated signs 9, 12 safe condition signs 20-21, 30-32
international standards safety way guidance components, see
ISO 32 42 escape route location signs
ISO 7010 8 siting of escape route signs 11-12
OHSAS 18001 8 size of signs 10, 12-14, 34
irritant substances 37, 57 smoking, see prohibition signs
special needs, signs for people with
labelling 30-32
packages for conveyance 53-55 stairways 12, 24-25
packages for supply 55-57 supplementary text 12, 17, 20, 32, 38,
location of escape route signs, see siting 39, 40, 47, 48
of escape route signs or escape route
location signs toxic substances 37, 43, 47, 49, 53, 54,
logbook, fire safety 6, 9, 14 55, 56, 57
London Fire and Civil Defence training 6, 7, 10, 18, 22, 26, 27, 28, 32
Authority 45 transport of dangerous substances 37,
49-58
maintenance notices 18-19
maintenance of signs 7, 9, 14 viewing distance, see size of signs
Management of Health and Safety at
Work Regulations 1999 5, 7 Z factor 13-14
60
Signs cover for print 6/6/07 4:47 pm Page 1
Fire Protection Association GUIDE TO FIRE SAFETY SIGNS

FOURTH EDITION

Fire safety signs come in many sizes, shapes and colours. They identify a variety
of hazards or indicate necessary actions to those for whose safety they are
provided. There are often specific requirements as to the locations in which they
should be displayed.
The FPA’s Guide to Fire Safety Signs provides advice on these and many other
topics related to the use of fire safety signs. This edition is fully revised in

accordance with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order and the Health and
Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996.
Illustrated throughout in full colour, the FPA’s Guide to Fire Safety Signs is an
excellent reference handbook for those responsible for this aspect of fire safety. It
contains examples of over 160 signs, along with notes on their meaning and
intended location.
Contents: Introduction; Legal requirements and best practice; Means of escape;
Equipment; Use and storage of dangerous substances; Transport of dangerous
substances; Index.
ISBN 1 902790 45-6

Tel: +44 (0)1608 812 500 • Fax: +44 (0)1608 812 501
THE UK’ s NATIONAL FIRE SAFETY ORGANISATION

Guide To Fire Safety Signs

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

You might also like

Guide To Fire Safety Signs

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Description:

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Guide To Fire Safety Signs

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Signs cover for print 6/6/07 4:47 pm Page 1

Fire Protection Association GUIDE TO FIRE SAFETY SIGNS

FIRE PROTECTION ASSOCIATION

Guide to Fire Safety Signs

ISBN 1 902790 45-6

The Fire Protection Association

THE UK’ s NATIONAL FIRE SAFETY ORGANISATION

FIRE PROTECTION ASSOCIATION

First edition: 1996

The Fire Protection Association

© Fire Protection Association 2007

ISBN 1 902790 45-6

Printed in Great Britain by

1.1 Legal requirements

Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996

1.2 British and international standards

Internally illuminated signs

1.4 Durability of fire safety signs

2.1 Escape route location signs

2.1.1 National Health Service escape route signs

2.1.2 Siting of escape route signs

2.1.3 Choosing sign sizes

2.1.4 Audit, review and maintenance of escape route signs

Table 2.2: Location and identification of escape route signs

Suspended in open areas Progress forward and through

Sign Examples of use/locations Meaning (as viewed from in

Table 2.3: Escape route signs with supplementary text

2.2 Mandatory and maintenance instruction

Table 2.4: Examples of mandatory notices

Sign Examples of use Function/purpose

Sign Examples of use Function/purpose

2.3 Emergency exit and emergency door release

Table 2.5: Example of an emergency door sign

Table 2.6: Examples of emergency door release equipment signs

Sign Examples of use Function/purpose

2.4 Action in the event of fire signs

Sign Meaning and uses

2.4.1 Signs showing emergency and evacuation plans and

Sign Examples of use and purpose

Figure 2.4: Appropriate installation of stairway and floor identification signs

Sign Examples of use and purpose

Sign Examples of use and purpose

3.1 Fire alarm and firefighting equipment signs

Sign Function/purpose Sign Function/purpose

It is widely debated whether a safety sign indicating the location of a fire

Table 3.2: Fire extinguisher identification signs

Sign Sign Function and usage

Table 3.3: Fire class symbols

Sign Meaning Sign Meaning

Table 3.4: Other call point signs

Sign Function/purpose Sign Function/purpose

3.2 Safe condition signs

Table 3.5: First aid and emergency equipment location signs

3.3 Emergency services information signs

Table 3.7: Examples of signs for the emergency services

Sign Function/purpose Sign Function/purpose

Sign Function/purpose Sign Function/purpose