Etapa 2. Vídeo 4. Señalización de seguridad. Tu ruta hacia el éxito profesional

Safety Signage and Its Importance

Overview of Safety Signage

• Safety signage aims to quickly and clearly draw attention to risk situations, but it cannot replace technical prevention or protection measures.

• There are five different classes of safety signs used in the workplace: warning signs, prohibition signs, obligation signs, fire-fighting signs, and rescue or assistance signs.

Types of Safety Signs

Warning Signs

• Warning signs are triangular with a black border and yellow background; they indicate various risks such as flammable materials, explosive substances, toxic agents, corrosive materials, radioactive items, suspended loads, vehicle traffic hazards, electrical risks, and general dangers.

• Specific warnings include:

• Flammable materials: Indicates presence of easily ignitable substances.

• Explosive materials: Alerts to potential explosion risks.

• Toxic/corrosive substances: Warns against harmful effects on skin and tissues.

• Biological risks: Highlights health hazards from biological agents.

Prohibition Signs

• Prohibition signs are circular with a red border and white background; they convey restrictions such as no smoking or open flames allowed in certain areas. Other prohibitions include access restrictions for unauthorized personnel and vehicles.

Obligation Signs

• Obligation signs are round with a blue background indicating mandatory actions like wearing protective gear (headgear, eye protection) or following specific safety protocols (e.g., fall protection). These ensure compliance with safety regulations.

Fire-Fighting Signs

• Fire-fighting signs indicate the locations of essential equipment such as fire hoses, extinguishers, ladders, and emergency phones; arrows guide individuals towards exits during emergencies.

Rescue/Assistance Signs

• Rescue or assistance signage includes evacuation routes and locations for first aid kits; these are crucial for ensuring safe exit strategies during emergencies. They also highlight where safety showers and eye wash stations are located.

Gestural Signals for Emergency Communication

• Important gestural signals include:

• Arms extended forward signaling "start."

• Arm raised high indicating "end of operations."

• Circular motions with arms showing "raise" or "lower."

• Movements indicating directions to advance or retreat.

• Raised arms signaling an immediate stop is required.