Safety Tag Design Guide - Headers

ANSI standards modernize the hazard alert system that uses different signal words and colors to distinguish between levels of hazards. We recommend utilizing these carefully researched standards to provide more uniform and consistent visual communications that promote recognition and avoidance of hazards.

A header, also known as a signal word, helps communicate the severity and importance of your message.  



Using the signal words mentioned below will ensure you are in compliance with the aforementioned ANSI and OSHA standards and specifications for accident prevention tags:



Safety Alert Symbol


The ANSI Z535-1998 standards encourage the use of to indicate potential personal injury hazards. The safety alert symbol should not be used to alert persons to property damage- just for potential accidents or hazards. 



ANSI Z535-1998 favors the use of ANSI style headers vs. the traditional OSHA headers.

ANSI Header	OSHA Header	DANGER indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury. This signal word is to be limited to the most extreme situations.
ANSI Header	OSHA Header	WARNING tags indicate a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
ANSI Header	OSHA Header	CAUTION tags indicate a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury. It may also be used to alert against unsafe practices.
		BIOLOGICAL HAZARD tags are used to identify the actual or potential presence of a biological hazard and to identify equipment, containers, rooms, and experimental animals that contain or are contaminated with hazardous biological agents.
		NOTICE tags are used to indicate a statement of company policy as the message relates directly or indirectly to the safety of personnel or the protection of property. This signal word should not be associated directly with a hazard or hazardous situation and must not be used in the place of “DANGER’, “WARNING”, or “CAUTION.”