LBNL uses every reasonable method to warn employees and visitors of hazards
and dangers in and around the Laboratory. Signs, characteristic lights, and
audible alarms are used as additional safeguards for built-in mechanical and
physical protection. To ensure uniform response by Laboratory personnel and
visitors, the warning signs and devices must be of the same type for similar
hazards. Obtaining and installing the warning systems are the responsibility
of the group needing them.
Hazards fall into three categories: chemical, biological, and physical. In
describing hazards it is important to stress that hazards are only potential
problems. The presence of a hazard does not mean you will experience adverse
effects. Hazard signs alert you to the presence, nature, and level of hazard,
and to the protection required (safety glasses, hearing protection, etc.) in
the area. For example, signs may indicate the presence of radioactive materials,
high-voltage electricity, lasers, carcinogens, corrosives, biohazards, or magnetic
fields.
Signs must conform to the colors, symbols, lettering size, and proportions
stated in 29 CFR 1910.145. Additional specifications for specific hazards are
contained throughout the Work Smart Standards. Every warning sign must include
the following components:
An approved heading that indicates the relative hazard.
A concise statement of the type of hazard.
A statement of what to do or not to do in the area.
5.9.3.1 Warning Sign Locations
Warning signs must be conspicuously displayed in locations — i.e., by a doorway — where they are most visible to onlookers or individuals approaching a hazardous area. The words on the sign must be legible, and the sign must be placed in a location where it does not conflict with other Danger & Caution hazard signs.
Danger signs are used only where injury or damage is certain to occur if approved
operating instructions and procedures are not followed. Personnel must be warned
of the serious consequences of ignoring the message. The top of the sign says
DANGER in white letters on a red oval that is edged by a rectangular black border.
The body of the sign is white with the message printed in black.
Caution signs are used where injury or damage is possible and employees must
be on their guard. The top of this sign is yellow with the message printed in
black.
Informational signs are used where instructions are needed. The heading says
NOTICE in white letters on a green rectangle when the message is related to
safety and on a blue rectangle for other messages. The body of the sign is white
with the message printed in black.
Directional signs are used to indicate exits, fire escapes, evacuation routes,
stairways, location of first aid equipment, etc. The direction symbol appears
near the top in white on a green rectangle. The body of the sign must have a
color contrasting with the general background. It is, however, common practice
to use RED as the basic color to identify the location of fire protection equipment
and apparatus (e.g., fire extinguisher, fire hose).
Biological hazard signs identify the actual or potential presence of a biological
hazard. They identify equipment, containers, rooms, experimental animals, or
combinations that contain, or are contaminated with, hazardous biological agents.
The information, presented either with lettering or symbols, must be in a contrasting
color to the fluorescent orange or orange-red body of the sign.
Radiological hazard signs identify controlled area access and potential exposure
limits within the controlled area. The sign is either yellow with black lettering
and the radiation symbol or magenta with black lettering.
The EH&S Division will assist other divisions in signage needs. It is then
the responsibility of the division or group needing the signs to order and install
them in the appropriate area(s). Copies of all signs and labels are available
for viewing at Stores, Building 7. To order, contact Craft Stores, Building
78, ext. 5087.
