Physical Factors

Warning Signs for Noise, Dust, Radiation and Temperature

Physical hazard warning signs remind people of risks that are not always visible, such as noise, dust, radiation, magnetic fields, extreme heat and cold. These hazards usually cause harm through long-term exposure, and by the time hearing loss, lung disease or burns appear, it is too late. A sign in the right place makes the hazard visible and prompts people to use the right protective equipment.

Subcategories and Sign Types

• Noise: wear ear plugs, use ear defenders, 85 decibel and sudden loud noise warning signs.
• Dusty environments: dust mask and respirator signs for asbestos, silica, cement, wood, metal and dozens of other dusts.
• Radiation: ionizing and optical radiation, laser beam, UV and IR warnings, plus signs requiring a personal dosimeter.
• Magnetic fields: strong magnetic field warnings and no entry signs for people with pacemakers, prostheses and for pregnant women.
• Heat: hot surface, boiling water and hot oil warnings and heat-resistant gloves signs.
• Cold: low temperature, frost hazard and cold store safety signs.

Warning or Mandatory Sign?

A yellow triangle warning sign tells people that a hazard exists, while a blue circle mandatory sign tells them what to do about it. In a noisy area, pairing a noise hazard warning with a use hearing protection sign gives the complete message, just as a dust warning works best next to a wear a dust mask sign. Many signs in this category combine both messages on a single sign. The most reliable way to decide which signs you need is your workplace risk assessment and environmental measurements; where noise and dust levels have been measured, choosing the right sign becomes straightforward.

Materials and Sizes

Signs are available as vinyl stickers, 3 mm PVC (dekota) boards and galvanized steel plates, with standard, photoluminescent and reflective finishes. Sizes run from A5 to A2, and some products also come in square formats. If you need advice on materials for demanding locations such as hot machinery or cold stores, please contact us.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are physical hazards at work? In occupational health and safety, physical hazards are risks that come from energy or environmental conditions, such as noise, vibration, dust, radiation, electromagnetic fields and extreme temperatures.

Is a sign enough on its own? No. Signs work best alongside a risk assessment, technical controls, personal protective equipment and staff training.