Warning Signs for Fall Protection

Warning signs are one way employers can stay proactive about protecting their workers from potential fall hazards. They are particularly useful in fall protection because they alert workers to follow OSHA’s mandated requirements while completing certain duties or located in certain areas.

What Kinds of Warning Signs Are Used for Fall Protection?

OSHA has three classifications of warning signs: caution signs, danger signs, and safety instruction signs.  Their uses are defined as follows:

• Caution signs. 29 CFR 1910.145(c)(2). “Caution signs shall be used only to warn against potential hazards or to caution against unsafe practices.” 29 CFR 1910.145(c)(2)(i)
• Danger signs. 29 CFR 1910.145(c)(1). “There shall be no variation in the type of design of signs posted to warn of specific dangers and radiation hazards.” 29 CFR 1910.145(c)(1)(i)
• Safety instruction signs. “Safety instruction signs shall be used where there is a need for general instructions and suggestions relative to safety measures.” 29 CFR 1910.145(c)(3)

OSHA also requires that all employees must be instructed on the specific dangers and necessary precautions that caution and danger signs are used to identify. The rest of 29 CFR 1910.145 outlines the requirements for application, design, and wording of warning signs. There are many warning sign manufacturers who create and distribute signs that meet OSHA’s mandated requirements.

Warning Signs in a Work Injury Case

Employers are responsible for warning employees, contractors, and visitors about potential hazards that exist in the workplace. Warning and safety instruction signs are an easy way for them to accomplish this requirement; however, if the signage they choose to use does not adequately warn workers of the hazard, there could be liability in spite of the warning signs.

Consult an Experienced Fall Protection Attorney

If you or a loved one has sustained injuries due to improper warning signs in the workplace, you may be entitled to financial recovery. Fall protection is vital to workplace safety and we believe that negligent employers should be held accountable for when they put profit over ensuring the safety of their staff. Our attorneys understand this industry and the standards set forth by OSHA; as well as, other federal, state, and municipal regulations that may apply. Call (713) 932-0777 to learn more about your claim today.