For employers, site managers, and project managers, the display of appropriate construction site signs is a legal requirement. The Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996 details where, when, and how construction signs must be displayed to protect workers—employers who fail to comply with these regulations can be fined or even prosecuted.
Even for the most experienced construction industry professionals, staying compliant can be a headache. That’s why at JMF, we aim to provide not only the finest quality building site signage, but also no-nonsense guidance on which signs you need to display to ensure your workplace and. your employees are safe and secure.
To learn more about our range of site safety signs, contact our team today. Alternatively, keep reading for our comprehensive guide.
The Types of Construction Site Signs
As an industry professional, no one knows better than you that building and construction sites are inherently dangerous places. There are countless potential hazards on a construction site, which is why there are a number of different types of signage to account for the different types of risk.
Broadly speaking, construction safety signs can be split into the following categories:
Mandatory
A mandatory sign is a sign which tells people that they must do something in order to stay safe. One of the most common mandatory signs is the “Hard Hats Must Be Worn” sign, which needs to be displayed where there is a danger of head injuries from falling objects.
A mandatory sign should feature a blue circle, with white writing or symbols inside.
Prohibition
If a mandatory sign is a “do”, a prohibition sign is a “don’t” sign. These signs are used to indicate actions or activities which are not allowed, a common example of which is the “No Entry” sign.
A prohibition sign consists of a red circle with a red line running through the centre and is accompanied by a red panel underneath that details the prohibited action.
Warning
Warning safety signs are used to indicate a potential hazard or danger. These signs are not as severe as prohibition signs, but are still used to caution people against carrying out certain activities.
A warning sign is depicted with a yellow triangle and black border, with black images and messaging accompanying it.
Safe Condition
Safe condition signs provide information on actions that should be taken in case of an emergency. This includes the “Fire Exit” sign, which helps workers and visitors navigate the site safely in the event of a fire.
Safe condition signs are green, with white images and written messages.
Fire Safety
This type of sign provides information about fire safety equipment. This includes the location of the nearest equipment (extinguishers, hoses, telephones, etc.), as well as instructions on how to operate it safely.
These signs are commonly displayed in red, with white text and images.
First Aid
Prominente first aid signs are essential for site safety, ensuring accidents are treated quickly and effectively. These signs show the location of first aid equipment, as well as give instructions on how to provide assistance.
First aid signs are usually green, with a white cross symbol.
Road and Car Park
There are a number of signs which should be displayed in and around construction site vehicles and car parks. These include “Slow Down” signs, as well as “No Parking” signs.
Particularly important to ensure the safety of visitors, road signs provide entrance directions, notifications about potential dangers, and ensure smooth transportation and site operation.
Information
This type of sign provides additional information that can help people to stay safe on site. This can include things like the location of the nearest toilet, or a map of the construction site.
Non-essential construction site information signs are generally white, with black text and images.
Recycling
Whilst not essential for health and safety, recycling signs are becoming increasingly common on construction sites as businesses become increasingly eco-conscious.
Recycling signs help to reduce waste and encourage recycling, making them a valuable addition to any construction site.
Multi-Message
Multi-message signs have many benefits in that they allow you to display a number of relevant health and safety messages on a single panel. This can be particularly useful in areas where space is limited.
Multi-message signs are available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and formats, making them suitable for a number of applications.
Material Options for Construction Site Signs
At JMF, we supply an extensive range of construction signs, manufactured in-house from a range of high-quality materials.
Aluminium
One of the most popular materials for construction signs, aluminium is lightweight yet strong and durable. It is also weather-resistant, making it ideal for outdoor use. Our team can produce printed or cut vinyl graphics which can be applied to aluminium panels, or we can print directly onto the surface of the metal using our wide format printers.
Foam Board
Foam board is a popular choice for construction site signs as it is lightweight, yet rigid enough to stand up in exposed outdoor conditions. It is also easy to drill and screw into, making it ideal for attaching to walls or fences.
Plastic
Plastic is another common choice for construction site signs as it is durable and weather-resistant. It is also lightweight, making it easy to transport and install. We offer a range of plastic sign options, from Correx board to acrylic and PVC, as well as glow-in-the-dark options that ensure your signs are visible in low-light conditions.
Self-Adhesive Vinyl
Self-adhesive vinyl is a versatile material that can be applied to a variety of surfaces. It is commonly used to display health and safety messages at indoor locations, and has the benefit of being fully customisable.
PVC Banner
PVC banners are a cost-effective way to display health and safety messages in an outdoor environment. They are strong and durable, yet lightweight and easy to install. We can print full-colour images and text onto PVC banners of any size, ensuring your message is clearly visible.
Which Safety Signs Do I Need for My Business?
Frustratingly, there is no simple answer to this question. The safety signs you need for your site will depend entirely on the project itself, and the unique risks and hazards which visitors and workers might face.
To understand which construction signs you need, you will need to carry out a full risk assessment. This report will help you gain an understanding of every potential hazard, and ensure you’re taking measures to minimise their future potential impact.
The good news is that when you have conducted this assessment, JMF’s services can help you to implement the findings. We can provide you with a comprehensive range of construction safety signs, as well as advice and guidance on their installation and maintenance.
We also offer a sign survey service, where our team will visit your site to assess your signage requirements and make recommendations for improvement.
What’s more, as we produce all our signs in-house, we can design and manufacture custom warning signs that meet your requirements, with relevant and compliant messaging that’s specific to your project.
JMF Group: The Last Word in Health and Safety Signage
Your search for a construction site sign supplier is over—JMF is here. Our one-stop-shop solution offers everything you need to ensure your site is safe, secure, and productive.
