Sign Viewing Distances
Choosing the Right Sign Size
Signs should be sized appropriately to ensure clear visibility and easy comprehension of safety messages for employees and visitors. The text on the signs should be legible and readable without causing eye strain, considering the correct viewing distance. It is crucial to take into account factors such as the environment, lighting conditions, and viewing distance when determining the required sign size for your specific application. In work environments where symbols or signs with minimal wording are used, and lighting is adequate with prominent sign placement, the recommended minimum sizes are as follows.
What is the correct sign size and correct viewing distance?
Where can I position the sign without any blockage? Is a big sign necessary for the hazard or would a smaller one suffice? For instance, if you need to caution people about a machine hazard, then the warning should be near the potential point of danger (ideal for machinery labels). However, if the hazard covers a larger area like a door entrance, construction site, or warehouse, you require a safety sign that can be seen and read before entering the “hazardous area.” It’s important to inform people in advance about any potential hazards they may encounter upon entering the area.
Signs should be strategically placed to promptly grab people’s attention without causing distractions. In visually intricate environments or areas with high activity, smaller signs may not be enough. In such cases, it is advisable to use medium to large signs to highlight the hazard(s) and position them closer to the “hazardous area.” Only place signs that pertain to the specific hazard in the designated area (on machinery, near the excavation, etc.). Depending on the situation, some signs need to be at eye level, while others should be positioned for visibility from a greater distance, such as construction signs, parking signs, and traffic signs.
Small signs should be mounted at eye level for optimal viewing from 6 – 9 meters.
Medium signs should be mounted at a height of 1.8 meters or higher to ensure visibility up to 12 meters.
Large signs should be mounted at a height of 1.8 meters or higher to ensure visibility up to 18 meters.
