Current law requirements
The Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996 came into force on April 1 1996, and relate to the use of fire safety signage in the workplace. The regulations apply to all places and activities where people are employed and require employers to provide specific safety signage whenever there is a risk that has not been avoided or controlled by other means. The fire safety signage Regulations state that:
- Employers must use safety signs wherever there is a risk to health and safety which cannot be controlled by other means
- Safety signs must be of a specified type
- All signs must contain a pictogram; text only signs are no longer acceptable
- Signs must be properly maintained and adequately lit
- Employers must ensure that signs are understood by employees
Within an office space or commercial premises the two most common signs types you’ll see are ‘Safe Route’ (the running green man which directs you to Exits and Fire Exits – and it’s crucial to know which is which) and Fire Equipment identification signs, normally located next to fire extinguishers, hose reels and fire alarm call points.
Moving into new premises or reviewing your current one? We can help.
We can carry out a free signs survey to tell you which sign you’ll need to comply with current legislation.
We can also help with a free fire extinguisher survey to identify your portable fire extinguisher requirements.
These signs below are some of the more common you’ll see in any building – if you would like any advice on ‘Safe Route’ or ‘Fire Equipment’ signs give us a call.
