Here’s a complete list of Mandatory Signs with their meaning/purpose and example locations, tailored for NEBOSH IG2, workplace safety, and blog use.
🔵 What is a Mandatory Sign?
Mandatory signs are signs that show what must be done to protect health and safety. These signs are used to enforce compulsory actions, like wearing PPE or following a procedure.
📌 Key Features of Mandatory Signs
- Shape: Circle
- Color: Blue background with white pictogram
- Symbol: Clear white symbol showing the required action
- Message: Optional instruction text (e.g., “Wear Safety Helmet”)
- Purpose: Informs about actions that must be carried out to stay safe
- Compliance: Follows ISO 7010, OSHA, or local legal standards
📘 Purpose of Mandatory Signs
- Ensure compliance with health and safety laws
- Remind workers of required actions
- Reduce risk of injury, illness, or accidents
- Often used for PPE (e.g., eye protection, masks)
🧠 Why Are Mandatory Signs Important in NEBOSH/Workplace Safety?
- They are part of administrative control measures
- Help fulfill legal duties under safety regulations
- Improve safety awareness and compliance
- Should be included in risk assessments (IG2)
📌 Use of Mandatory Signs
- Reinforce PPE requirements
- Fulfill legal responsibilities under OSHA/ILO/ISO
- Prevent injuries and illnesses
- Used where an action is essential for safety
🔵 Mandatory Signs List
| Sign Text | Meaning / Purpose | Example Location |
|---|---|---|
| Wear Hard Hat | Head protection is mandatory to prevent injury | Construction sites, warehouses |
| Wear Eye Protection | Protect eyes from dust, chemicals, sparks | Laboratories, grinding areas |
| Wear Ear Protection | Prevent hearing loss in high-noise environments | Factories, airports, mining sites |
| Wear Hand Protection | Prevent cuts, burns, or chemical contact | Chemical handling, maintenance zones |
| Wear Safety Footwear | Protect feet from falling objects, slips, or sharp items | Construction, warehouses |
| Wear High-Visibility Vest | Improve visibility to prevent collisions | Roadsides, warehouses, night work |
| Wear Face Mask | Protect from dust, fumes, or airborne contaminants | Hospitals, cleanrooms, painting booths |
| Use Chemical Protection | Requires special clothing for chemical handling | Chemical labs, tank farms |
| Keep Fire Exit Clear | Prevent blocking emergency routes | Exit doors, staircases |
| Lockout Equipment Before Maintenance | Ensure energy sources are isolated before repair | Industrial machines, electrical panels |
| Use Emergency Shower/Eye Wash | Decontaminate after exposure to harmful substances | Chemical labs, fuel stations |
| Dispose of Waste Properly | Enforce hygiene and cleanliness | Kitchens, labs, production floors |