Choosing the Right Size & Material for Your Safety Signs
Selecting the correct size and material for your safety signage is essential for visibility, durability, and compliance with Australian Standards (AS 1319). Whether you need temporary construction signs, long-term outdoor signage, or high-impact branding solutions, this guide will help you choose the best option.
Positioning & Visibility
Prominent Placement
Mount signs where they fall naturally into a person’s line of sight. Placing them too high, too low, or in a corner can reduce their effectiveness.
Contrasting Background
Use a background colour that contrasts with your sign’s text and symbols for better legibility.
Avoid Obstructions
Keep stacked materials, shelving, or equipment away from signs so they remain clearly visible at all times.
Viewing Distance & Sign Sizes
Find the Right Size for Maximum Visibility
Choosing the correct sign size depends on several factors, including:
- Viewing Distance: How far away workers or visitors will be when reading the sign.
- Lighting Conditions: Poor lighting or dusty environments may require larger signs.
- Workplace Activity: In areas where staff operate vehicles such as forklifts, larger signs improve readability.
- Obstructions: If signs are placed where objects or equipment may block visibility, sizing up is recommended.
Recommended Safety Sign Sizes & Viewing Distances
Choosing the right size for your safety sign ensures optimal visibility and compliance with workplace regulations. Below is a guide to help determine the best size based on application and viewing distance.
Larger signs provide better visibility for critical safety information, while smaller signs are ideal for offices, doorways, and controlled environments.
300mm x 225mm
Ideal for small, close-proximity applications such as identifying office rooms, restricted areas, or specific hazards. These compact signs are effective in controlled indoor environments where space is limited.
- Best For: Indoor use, office signage, door signs.
- Recommended Viewing Distance: Up to 7 metres.
450mm x 300mm
A versatile option suited for common workplace environments, including warehouses, factories, and general indoor areas. This size provides clear messaging for moderate viewing distances, ensuring safety compliance in workspaces.
- Best For: Workplaces, general hazard signs.
- Recommended Viewing Distance: Up to 12 metres.
600mm x 450mm
Perfect for warehouses, larger rooms, and corridors where increased visibility is necessary. These signs balance readability and space efficiency, making them an ideal choice for safety warnings, directional signage, and operational instructions.
- Best For: Warehouses, medium-distance viewing.
- Recommended Viewing Distance: Up to 20 metres.
600mm x 900mm
Designed for high-risk environments, these signs are commonly used on construction sites, large factory floors, and industrial settings. The increased size ensures clear visibility from a greater distance, helping to prevent accidents and improve workplace safety.
- Best For: Construction sites, high-visibility areas.
- Recommended Viewing Distance: Up to 30 metres.
1200mm x 90mm
The largest standard size, used for high-impact safety messaging in large outdoor areas such as roadways, construction zones, and expansive industrial sites. These signs provide maximum visibility and durability for critical warnings and compliance notices.
- Best For: Outdoor safety, long-distance readability.
- Recommended Viewing Distance: Up to 50 metres.
Not Sure Which Size You Need?
Let our experts help you find the perfect fit for your needs.
Safety Sign Materials
In addition to size, the material you choose can greatly impact a sign’s durability and overall effectiveness. Choosing the right material depends on where your sign will be placed, how long it needs to last, and whether it will be used indoors or outdoors.
Safety Sign Materials
Discover our range of high-quality safety sign materials, each designed for durability, visibility, and compliance with safety regulations. We offer various options suited for different applications, from temporary signage to long-term outdoor use.
Corflute (5mm)
- Lightweight, durable, and cost-effective.
- Ideal for temporary indoor and outdoor signage.
- Commonly used for real estate signs, event signage, and construction boards.
- Corrugated structure provides rigidity while remaining easy to handle.
Aluminium Composite Panel (ACM) (3mm)
- High-quality aluminum composite material with a polyethylene core.
- Strong, weather-resistant, and suitable for long-term outdoor signage.
- Smooth, flat surface for high-quality printing.
- Ideal for retail displays, real estate boards, and construction signage.
Polypropylene (1.6mm)
- Lightweight, durable, and highly versatile.
- Resistant to water, chemicals, and UV exposure.
- Eco-friendly and recyclable, making it a sustainable choice.
- Commonly used for promotional signs, retail displays, and industrial labeling.
Metal (Colorbond Steel)
- Premium steel material with superior durability and weather resistance.
- Designed to withstand harsh outdoor conditions, including UV exposure and corrosion.
- Ideal for long-term outdoor signage, construction projects, and industrial applications.
- Provides a sleek, professional appearance.
Foamboard (5mm)
- Lightweight polyurethane foam with plastic-coated liners for added durability.
- Bright white surface ensures excellent print quality and color intensity.
- Resilient to solvent adhesives and paints, allowing for easy fabrication and customization.
- Best suited for indoor displays, exhibitions, and temporary signage.
Self-Adhesive Vinyl Sticker
- Flexible and durable with a strong adhesive backing.
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use on various surfaces, including glass, metal, and plastic.
- Water and UV-resistant, ensuring long-lasting graphics.
- Ideal for promotional graphics, vehicle wraps, window displays, and branding.
Acrylic (3mm)
- Premium signage option offering a sleek and sophisticated finish.
- Crystal-clear transparency enhances print depth and vibrancy.
- Lightweight yet sturdy construction, making it perfect for office signage, premium branding, and decorative displays.
Maintaining Your Safety Signs
According to AS 1319, you are responsible for keeping your signs clean, well-lit, and in good condition to ensure they remain compliant and effective:
Regular Cleaning
Wipe signs with a soft cloth or sponge using mild detergent and warm water. Avoid abrasive or harsh chemical cleaners.
Proper Lighting
Ensure the area around your signs is adequately lit, especially in low-light conditions.
Routine Inspections
Check periodically for fading, cracking, or peeling. Replace signs that are no longer legible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where should safety signs be placed in the workplace?
Safety signs should be placed in high-visibility areas where they can be easily seen and understood. Key locations include:
- Entry points – No Entry, Restricted Area, PPE Required signs
- Work zones – Hazard Warnings, Danger Signs, Machinery Safety signs
- Emergency exits & fire equipment – Fire Safety, Exit Signs, First Aid Points
- High-traffic areas – Pedestrian Crossings, Forklift Zones, Speed Limit signs
Can I design my own safety signs?
Yes! If you need custom messages, branding, or specific instructions, you can create custom safety signs with your logo, colors, and text while still ensuring compliance with Australian Standards (AS 1319).
Do safety signs need to include symbols or pictograms?
Yes, most safety signs must include internationally recognised symbols to ensure quick and universal understanding. AS 1319 requires pictograms on:
- Danger Signs (e.g., High Voltage, Flammable Materials)
- Mandatory Signs (e.g., Eye Protection Must Be Worn)
- Prohibition Signs (e.g., No Smoking, No Entry)
How often should workplace safety signs be replaced?
Safety signs should be regularly inspected and replaced if they become faded, damaged, or outdated. Signs in outdoor, high-exposure areas may need replacement every few years, while indoor signs last longer with minimal wear.
Are all safety signs legally required?
Some signs, like Exit Signs, Fire Safety Signs, and PPE Requirement Signs, are mandatory under WHS laws. Other signs, like directional and general workplace signs, are highly recommended for efficiency and safety compliance.
How Pro Safety Signs Can Help
At Pro Safety Signs, we ensure your workplace remains safe and compliant with AS 1319.
For expert advice on safety signage and compliance, contact us today. Let us help you create a safe and compliant workplace.
Our services include:
Expert Guidance
Tailored advice to identify your specific signage needs.
Custom Solutions
Design and production of bespoke signs that meet Australian Standards.
High-Quality Materials
Durable, weather-resistant, and reflective options to ensure long-lasting performance.
Get Started with Pro Safety Signs
Let us help you create a safe and compliant workplace. Explore our range of AS 1319-compliant safety signs or get in touch with our team for expert advice.
Contact us today to discuss your safety signage needs and ensure compliance with Australian Standards.