Urban Traffic Operations/ANSI Safety Signs

The new ANSI standards also emphasizes on a custom design for the safety sign. As per the standard convention a sign can include an Action statement, consequences, a symbol, the message can be written in mixed case and can add emergency information.

Seven Steps to an effective ANSI Standard Safety Sign
Here are seven secrets to make your signs and labels as effective as possible following the ANSI standards:

1. Over Emphasis on the Action

Give the viewer instructions on how to avoid the hazard. Bias the sign towards action. Signs are really advertisements for safety. They need to be persuasive.

2. Incorporating Symbols

Many people cannot read English. Many more cannot see clearly enough to read, even if they do understand English. A symbol provides a quick way to reinforce the safety message and broaden your audience.

3. Choosing the Proper Header

The header helps get the sign noticed. A warning, after all, should not be a wallflower.

 4. Describe the Hazards & Consequences

You will die or get hurt if you ignore this warning! A safety message should tell you (1) why the situation is dangerous and (2) what will happen if you don't obey.

5. Write in a Headline Style

Use simple and direct words. Unfortunately, most people cannot read above the sixth grade level.

Use active rather than passive verbs: "Wear Hard Hats" is better than "Hard Hats are Required". Avoid adverbs that are difficult to interpret: "Respond within one minute" is better than "Respond quickly."

6. Provide Emergency Info.

Without a telephone number, lifesaving minutes can be lost. In a pinch, you don't want someone fumbling through the phone book to report an accident, or a potentially dangerous situation.

7. Choose the Right Material

Installation and ordering costs are often more expensive than the sign itself. As a result, a durable sign always pay in the long run.