ANSI Z535.

4 & ISO 3864-2 Safety

• ANSI Z535.4 2002 reasoning "The diversity of
culture and background in American society
increases the need to standardize a visual
alerting identification system for safety signage.
• The great need to eliminate accidents and
suffering among individuals who may be exposed
to hazards requires the use of standard formats,
sizes, colors, shapes and a firm understanding of
the degree of the hazard."
 ANSI labels are comprised of five key
elements
• The Signal Word Panel (NOTICE, CAUTION,
WARNING, DANGER). The Safety Alert Symbol
must be used in conjunction with the Signal Word
if there is a possible personal injury hazard.
• The use of a pictorial is recommended but not
required. Select a pictorial that clearly identifies
the hazard, consequences, or precautions.
• Identification of the hazard (e.g. "Crush Hazard")
or action statement (e.g. "Do Not Enter")
• How to avoid the hazard
• The consequences of not avoiding the hazard
 Standards set by ISO for safety labels
include:
• An optional signal word panel.
• Optional text outlining the hazard and hazard
avoidance.
• ISO-formatted symbol is required. The three
symbol types are listed in the "Pictorial Panel"
section.
 Design & Content
• Header Section-contains signal words such as
"Caution", "Warning", "Danger", or "Notice“.
These words must also be formatted according to
ANSI standards.
• Pictorial Panel-contains symbol appropriate to
the hazard information you are trying to convey.
This is not required but recommended.
• Message Panel-this area generally consist of text
identifying the hazard, consequences, and safety
measures. This must also be formatted as
specified by ANSI standards.
 ISO Standard safety signs.

• Mandatory Action: Defines a safety label that

indicates that an action should be taken or
equipment should be used to avoid a hazard.
• Prohibition: Defines a safety label that indicates
that an action should not be taken or should be
stopped.
• Hazard Identification: Defines a safety label that
indicates a hazard.