OSHA Compliant Fire Safety Signs | Jessup Manufacturing Company
Fire safety signs are something you might ignore until a fire breaks out and then you’ll rely on them more than ever. Fire safety signs help people within a building respond quickly if a fire happens and also offer guidance on how to prevent fires. From fire extinguisher safety signs to fire exit signs, these are all regulated by numerous agencies. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) governs the signs to ensure that workers are kept safe and protected.
Fire safety signs fall into two categories: prevention and fire escape/fighting signs. For example, you might have several types of fire extinguisher safety signs. One could be to direct people to the fire extinguisher while another offers instructions on accessing it. In most cases, both types of signs will be required to ensure employees and people within the building are well informed on how to prevent and be safe during a fire emergency.
How to Mount Fire Safety Signs
Besides the obvious of making your fire safety signs clearly readable and able to be identified, OSHA does not offer requirements beyond that. Common sense of the business owner would come into play to ensure the signs can be visible to the largest number of people within the building. For example, fire extinguisher safety signs should generally be above or around the extinguisher itself. Arrows directing people to the fire extinguisher might be necessary if it is not in a visible place. Placing fire safety signs higher (5’+) is preferred because it allows the signs to be seen both up close and also from a distance.
You can mount your fire safety signs either on the wall or ceiling depending on the need. Whatever you choose you will want to make sure they are permanently and securely mounted. Three-dimensional fire extinguisher safety signs are growing in popularity because they allow the sign to be located from all directions. Glow-in-the-dark fire extinguisher safety signs are also a great investment in safety because it allows for visibility if the lights go out. Signs can be found in various languages or bilingual and with symbols to ensure they are universally understood.
Fire Safety Signs Are Required by Law
Besides creating a safer building, these signs are required by law. OSHA has very specific rules around how employees are protected within their workplace and fire safety signage is one way they ensure employees are safe. This goes for any workplace, including construction trailers, offices, restaurants, or retail to name a few.
OSHA will conduct inspections to make sure workplaces are compliant with these regulations. Failing to comply with OSHA will result in fines or even stronger consequences. Penalty amounts will vary based on the severity or number of violations the business has been given.
Types of Fire Safety Signs
There is a wide range of fire safety signs. You will want to select a company that is fully up to date on fire safety sign requirements. Signs should be durable and easy to read from a distance. In some cases, you might even want to look for glow-in-the-dark fire safety signs. Some widely used fire safety signs include:
Fire Extinguisher Safety Signs
These signs are critical for people to be able to easily find and operate a fire extinguisher. OSHA has very specific guidelines set forth on fire extinguisher safety. Glow-in-the-dark fire extinguisher safety signs or those with arrows are extremely popular.
Fire Exit Safety Sign
Probably the most well-known fire safety sign. Your fire exit signs should be placed above all exit doors and clearly marked. They must be lit at all times and if the sign is not clearly visible you will need to put markings to the fire exit.
Use Stairways (in case of fire) Sign
The use stairway in case of fire signs should be placed near elevators within the building. Stairway doors should also be clearly marked.
Be Prepared and Be Compliant
Fire safety is no small deal. Ensuring your building is equipped with the right fire safety signage is critical to the wellbeing of all people in your building. At Jessup Manufacturing we carry a large option of fire safety signs and know what signs are needed to be in compliance with OSHA and other regulating authorities.
