Hazard Signs You Might See at Work and What They Mean

‍Here are some of the most common variations of hazard signs that you might see in the workplace and what they mean.

LabSource, a full-line distributor of lab and safety products, has put together a great infographic demonstrating common hazard sign variations that you might see in industrial work spaces.

Learn more about what these common hazard signs mean and then scroll down to access this infographic to share online and use in your workplace.

BIOHAZARD

This sign indicates the presence of harmful microorganisms such as viruses, bacteria and other toxins. This hazard sign is frequently found on containers for the disposal of medical waste such as used syringes.

LASER

Devices that depend on high-powered lasers must bear the warning sign below. Anyone entering areas where lasers are used should be equipped with eye protection and avoid looking directly into the source.

CORROSIVE

When this hazard sign is present, workers must take care to use specialized safety gloves when handling corrosive materials, as they can burn or dissolve skin and other substances on contact.

RADIOACTIVE

The hazard sign below announces that radioactive materials are present and anyone working in the area should be protected with radiation suits.

HIGH VOLTAGE

Equipment labeled with this hazard sign uses or generates enough electricity to seriously injure or kill a person. Only trained and authorized technicians should be allowed to access this area.

HOT SURFACE

Anything bearing the hazard sign below can become extremely hot to the touch. Workers should avoid it or use caution that they do not burn themselves or others.

POISON

Materials that have the symbol shown on the hazard sign below are poisonous and should not be swallowed, inhaled or handled without protective gloves. This hazard sign may also highlight any area where poisons might be present.

FLAMMABLE

Anything marked with the hazard sign below needs to be kept away from open flames, heat sources and sparks. Flammable materials are in danger of sudden combustion and can cause explosions.

EXTREME COLD

Often found in chemical storage areas, this hazard sign indicates extremely low temperatures. Care must be taken not to expose skin or other sensitive items to these cold conditions.

WET FLOOR

This hazard sign can be found in practically any work environment and is used to mark an area where the floor might be wet, has just been recently mopped or has an increased risk of spills.

MOVING VEHICLES

Whether forklifts, trucks or another type of vehicle, the hazard sign below alerts workers that heavy equipment passes through the area frequently. Anyone on foot should stay in designated pedestrian walkways and stay alert while in the area.

Hazard signs are a prevalent sight in laboratories and industrial workplaces. The information they convey is crucial for workplace safety, but they may not always be familiar to those working there. Consider downloading this infographic and posting it in your workplace to ensure all team members are aware of the meaning of these hazard signs. A safety meeting or toolbox talk on hazard signs is also a great idea!