Certainly the idea of using safety signs to light up and mark safe escape routes from buildings is not new. However, during recent years there have been several advances in escape route markings. Electrically powered systems and now photoluminescent safety signs have become the norm. In buildings where a loss of electrical power would lead to escape routes being left in darkness then photoluminescent signage is often used.

So far as is possible, it is an employer’s responsibility under the law to ensure the safety and welfare of their employees and the general public, and they fulfil part of this responsibility by installing safety signs. Under UK Health and Safety laws it is an employer’s duty to:

• Make the workplace safe and without risks to health to employees and the public – the use of safety signs can alert people to hazards, and show safety procedures.
  
• Ensure plant and machinery are safe and that safe systems of work are set and followed – correct signs can show safe working rules and regulations.
  
• Ensure articles and substances are moved, stored and used safely – your signage can immediately notify persons of any substance hazard.

There are a number of styles for safety signs. The use of a certain type depends on the message that the sign carries. For example, blue circles are called “mandatory” signs. These signs give orders: you need to do whatever is written on the sign. Yellow triangles are called “caution” signs. These should be used if something dangerous needs to be brought to people's attention. Red signs are known as “fire safety” signs. They are used only for showing the location of fire extinguishers and other fire safety equipment.

When there is a hazard that has not been avoided or controlled by other means, for example by engineering controls or safe systems of work, the Health and Safety Regulations 1996 require employers to provide specific safety signs. Where the risk is not significant, or where safety signs would not help to reduce the risk, there is no need to provide a sign.

Other methods used to prevent accidents might include a detailed orientation at the beginning of the job, regular training and updates regarding practice standards, or staff meetings to remind employees of their duty. Safety signs are not a replacement for other methods of controlling a hazard; they are to be used to complement or underpin other measures to help reduce risk further.

You also need to have fire exit signs, and signs that show where your fire extinguishers are located. Known as "photoluminescent," some signs are available in glow-in-the-dark finishes. From the straightforward “no smoking” label to the photoluminescent “safe passage” sign, keep in mind that all signs for every situation must incorporate a visual symbol by law.

In order to satisfy the current Health and Safety regulations, you need to exhibit the current “Health and Safety Law, What You Need to Know” poster, available from the HSE. Posters that tell people what to do in the event of an emergency, such as the fire action poster, which gives instructions on what to do if there’s a fire, must also be displayed. Many places of work now require both posters and health and safety signs by law.

If you’re confused, just remember that in the United Kingdom safety signs consist of three basic illustrative shapes: circles, triangles, and rectangles, each with a separate meaning. Circles give orders: blue circles give positive instruction, and red indicate prohibition. Triangles give warning of a hazard or restriction. Rectangles give information, and are used as directional signs.