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6.5.2 Common symbols

Are you familiar with the meaning of different colours used on signs?

Red circle sign with cross through its prohibition or restrictions

 

Red circle sign with cross through its prohibition or restrictions

Yellow is a caution sign

 

Yellow is a caution sign

Blue circle with picture is a mandatory requirement sign (usually protective clothing)

Blue circle with picture is a mandatory requirement sign (usually protective clothing)

Green is for emergency

 

Green is for emergency

Some signs may have a specific safety purpose. For instance one

we see on roads warning of - in this case

- people working.

Some signs may have a specific safety purpose. For instance one

Some pocket guides may be issued to instruct personnel on workplace signage.

Some pocket guides may be issued to instruct personnel on workplace signage.

Other signs may combine a warning and words to confirm the danger. For instance the caution sign below.

Activity 5

Reflect on the following and how animation may encourage greater attention.

Visual symbols

Flashing_sign_4.gifcaution

 

Consider the above symbols from everyday work and life. How universal are these symbols (in English language countries)? If you are viewing these files in electronic form, please now view the same symbols as an active graphics by double clicking on the hyperlinks (it will be displayed as on your web browser). Which has more impact? Why do static symbols have more impact than just text? Why do animated graphics have more impact than just static graphics? How may this assist with communicating safety in the workplace?

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