Refuge Point Fire Exit Sign Right Arrow

Fire safety signs play a crucial role in enhancing safety and preparedness during emergencies by providing clear, visual guidance that is easy to understand, even under high-stress conditions. Here's how they contribute:

Locate the Nearest Fire Exits:

• Fire exit signs ensure that everyone in the building can quickly and easily find their way to the nearest safe exit, even in unfamiliar environments or during low-visibility conditions like smoke-filled rooms.
• Photoluminescent (glow-in-the-dark) fire exit signs are especially useful in power outages, as they remain visible without external lighting.

Identify Firefighting Equipment:

• Fire extinguisher and hose reel signs highlight the location and type of firefighting equipment available.
• These signs also include instructions, such as which type of extinguisher to use for specific fires (e.g., CO2 for electrical fires), reducing the risk of misuse and increasing effectiveness during an emergency.

Follow Designated Evacuation Routes:

• Directional arrows and evacuation route signs guide individuals safely out of the building, avoiding hazards and bottlenecks.
• Proper placement of these signs, such as at staircases, corridors, and junctions, ensures a smooth and orderly evacuation process.

Gather at Safe Assembly Points:

• Assembly point signs designate a clear, safe location for people to gather once evacuated. This helps emergency personnel account for everyone and identify anyone who may still be inside.
• These signs are typically located in open, accessible areas away from the building to avoid additional risks, such as falling debris.

Reduce Uncertainty and Panic:

• In emergency situations, people may feel confused, anxious, or disoriented. Fire safety signs provide clear instructions, minimising hesitation and guiding individuals to safety.
• Their standardised symbols and colours, compliant with British and international regulations (such as BS EN ISO 7010), ensure consistency and immediate recognition, even for those who may not speak English as their first language.

Improve Emergency Response Efficiency:

• Fire safety signs also assist first responders by clearly marking key areas such as fire equipment storage, emergency exits, and hazardous zones.
• This reduces the time spent searching for critical tools or access points, enabling quicker and more effective action to contain the fire and protect lives.

By serving as a visual anchor in chaotic situations, fire safety signs are an indispensable part of any workplace’s emergency preparedness strategy. Regularly maintaining and updating these signs ensures they remain effective and compliant with legal requirements, safeguarding both employees and visitors.

Fire safety signs are a legal requirement for businesses under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 in the UK. They provide clear instructions to employees, visitors, and the public during emergencies, helping to minimise confusion and ensure a safe and orderly evacuation. These signs identify fire exits, firefighting equipment, and evacuation routes, reducing the risk of injury or loss of life.

Fire safety signs are required in all UK workplaces where risks cannot be completely eliminated. The Health & Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996 mandate the use of safety signage where necessary to warn, inform, or guide occupants to safety during emergencies.

The main types of fire safety signs include:

• Fire Exit Signs: Indicate the direction to the nearest fire exit.
• Fire Action Notices: Provide step-by-step instructions on what to do in the event of a fire.
• Fire Extinguisher Signs: Highlight the location of firefighting equipment and specify the type of extinguisher.
• Assembly Point Signs: Show designated safe areas for evacuation during an emergency.
• No Smoking Signs: Prevent potential fire hazards by prohibiting smoking in specific areas.

Fire safety signs should be positioned in clearly visible and accessible locations, such as:

• Above doorways leading to fire exits.
• Along evacuation routes to guide people to safety.
• Next to fire extinguishers to indicate their location and usage.
• At assembly points to mark safe gathering areas.
  Proper placement ensures that everyone can easily see and follow the signs, even in low-visibility conditions.

Choosing the Right Sign Material: A Guide by The Sign Shed

At The Sign Shed, all our signs are proudly manufactured in Yorkshire, adhering to the highest standards of quality and sustainability. Here’s a breakdown of the materials we offer to help you select the best option for your needs:

1. Self-Adhesive Vinyl Stickers

• Best for: Indoor use only.
• Material: Durable, flexible Metamark digital vinyl with adhesive backing.
• Application: Apply to flat, smooth, clean, and non-porous surfaces. Not suitable for wood, brick, or stone.
• Notes: Not recommended for surfaces painted with washable, "wipe-clean" paints like Dulux Easycare. For large stickers (A4+), professional application is advised.

2. Floor Stickers

• Best for: Indoor floors with light texture (e.g., carpet tiles).
• Material: Anti-slip Grafityp Textured Floor Vinyl.
• Lifespan: Several years.
• Notes: Not suitable for outdoor use or carpets.

3. Rigid Plastic Signs

• Best for: Indoor and outdoor general safety signage.
• Material: Lightweight, durable, 1mm thick rigid plastic.
• Features: Waterproof, can be pre-drilled for fixing.

4. Recyclable Plastic Signs (Bubble Board)

• Best for: Indoor and outdoor use requiring environmentally friendly options.
• Material: 100% recyclable polypropylene with a smooth, flute-free surface.
• Features: UV-treated, weather-resistant, scratch-resistant, and fire-retardant.

5. Recycled Plastic Signs (Palboard)

• Best for: Eco-conscious indoor and outdoor signage.
• Material: 50% recycled plastic with a lightweight PVC foam core.
• Features: Waterproof, recyclable, and excellent for printing.

6. Composite Aluminium Signs (Dibond)

• Best for: Long-term outdoor use in high-wind or harsh weather conditions.
• Material: Two thin aluminium sheets bonded to a polyethylene core.
• Features: Rust-proof, weather-resistant, lightweight, and durable. Pre-drilled holes available upon request.
• Environmental Benefits: 80% recycled material, 100% recyclable.

7. Photoluminescent PVC Signs

• Best for: Emergency signage.
• Material: Glow-in-the-dark PVC compliant with British Standard BS5499-2:1986.
• Features: Charges in daylight and provides visibility in power outages or emergencies.

8. Foamed Plastic Signs (Foamex)

• Best for: Temporary outdoor signage (e.g., construction sites).
• Material: Lightweight, weatherproof foam board with a matte finish.
• Thickness: 3mm.

9. Fluted Polypropylene (Correx)

• Best for: Temporary signage for short-term projects.
• Material: Lightweight and cost-effective.
• Features: Ideal for construction site notices.

10. PVC Banners

• Standard 440gsm PVC Banner
• Premium 510gsm PVC Banner
• 260gsm Mesh Banner

All banners are printed with eco-friendly UV ink and come hemmed and eyeleted, with free cable ties for easy installation.

By offering a variety of materials tailored to different uses, The Sign Shed ensures you’ll find the perfect solution for your signage needs—whether it’s temporary banners, durable outdoor signs, or eco-friendly options. For more information or help choosing the right material, contact us on 01977 220000.

Viewing Distances: How to Ensure Your Signs Are Seen

The visibility of a sign depends on several factors, including the viewing distance, angle, height, lighting conditions, and contrast with the background. Choosing the right size is essential to ensure your sign effectively communicates its message.

General Sizing Guideline

A good rule of thumb is that the height of the letters should be approximately 25mm (1 inch) for every 10 feet of viewing distance. For example:

• A sign with 10-inch letters can typically be read from 100 feet away.

However, this is just a guideline, and other factors, such as lighting or background clutter, may require adjustments.

Tips for Maximising Sign Visibility

To improve the visibility and effectiveness of your sign:

• Use Large, Bold Fonts: Opt for clear, easy-to-read lettering.
• Choose High-Contrast Colours: Ensure the text stands out against the background.
• Place in Well-Lit Areas: Adequate lighting makes signs easier to see.
• Avoid Cluttered Backgrounds: A clean, simple backdrop helps the sign stand out.

Get Expert Advice

If you’re unsure about the size or design of your sign, The Sign Shed can help! Our team is ready to guide you in selecting the perfect size, material, and design to meet your specific requirements. Contact us today for tailored advice.