There are 4 different signs standards currently legal in the UK, because of this many companies find themselves with a mixture of different standards of signs within their premises. Current guidelines state that signs within any premises should be of one standard to avoid the potential for confusion.
Signs are required to identify:
- Escape route / safe route
- Fire Equipment
- Hazards
- Mandatory Actions
Having the right signs in the right place will help ensure the safe evacuation of staff in the event of a fire and will also help to comply with the regulations. Mackenzie Fire Protection's Fire’s range of fire and safety signs incorporate the latest technology to provide cost effective solutions.
Photoluminescent Signs
Photoluminescent escape route signs are made from a zinc sulphide compound, which is charged by natural or artificial white light. They retain their luminous power for several hours to allow occupants to evacuate buildings quickly and safely in the dark and can be recharged any number of times.
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 signs 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.
Prestige Signs
If you’re looking for something a bit more ‘snazzy’ then our ‘Excellence’ range of signs is for you. Choose from brushed stainless steel, crystal acrylic or opaque acrylic signs with aluminium mounting bracketing. Have a browse through our catalogue.
If you cannot see what you require, please contact us with your enquiry
