Levels of Severity

There are 3 essential labels that follow ANSI Z535’s standards.

They are as follows:

Labels included on your machines should include one type – or all three – of the above headers. These call out specific hazards, such as a crushing or cutting hazard, that the operator could face while interacting with the machine. Make sure the labels chosen with either of these headers clearly states the potential hazard.²

• “Indicate[s] a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, will result in death or severe injury.”³
• Use this label where the operator or technician will be in immediate danger if they do not follow proper protocols on the machine.

• “Indicate[s] a potential hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result in death or severe injury.”⁴
• Use this label where the operator or technician may be in danger if they do not follow proper protocols on the machine.

• “Indicate[s] a potential hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.”⁵
• Use this label where there is a slight potential for the operator or technician to be injured if protocols are not followed on the machine.

² Clarion Safety Systems. (2012, October 25). ANSI standards: safety signs and labels [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VBY1lI9SUOw ^{3, 4, 5} ANSI definitions for danger, warning, caution or notice signs. (n.d.). MySafetySign.com. https://www.mysafetysign.com/ansi-safety-sign-standards