Your Health and Safety at Work

There are countless types of jobs in the world—some involve intense physical labor, while others carry significant mental stress. Safety is an essential consideration to ensure work proceeds smoothly, whether on a factory floor or behind a computer screen in an office.

Workplace safety messages serve as the primary mode of communication to maintain a safe environment for all employees. In many jurisdictions, these notices are not just best practice but a legal requirement. They inform staff about potentially harmful conditions, highlight emergency exits, and warn of dangerous substances. Every business—large or small—should display at least the basic set of safety messages in strategic locations.

For more detailed guidance on health and safety at work, explore our in-depth article.

Most Common Health and Safety Signs

Employers are often required to install clear, visible signs near hazardous areas—such as pipelines carrying dangerous chemicals or storage rooms containing flammable materials. Below are the essential messages every workplace should display:

• Emergency Escape Route or Quick Exit
• No Smoking
• First Aid
• Eye Protection Required
• Flammable Substance Area
• Wet Floor
• Toxic Material
• Fire Equipment
• Do Not Enter

Directional arrows should accompany these messages to guide employees during emergencies. Warnings related to fire protection or prevention are traditionally displayed in red, while other alerts may use different colors for clarity.

Creative and Witty General Safety Quotes

An engaging safety message can motivate employees to stay vigilant. Below are some memorable quotes that can double as a Workplace Safety Message of the Day:

• “Accidents hurt – Safety doesn’t.”
• “Safety First…For a Better Workplace.”
• “Safety…Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow.”
• “Life did not begin by accident. Don’t end it as one.”
• “Forgot your hearing protection? Forget about hearing!”
• “Tomorrow – Your reward for working safely today.”
• “Prepare & prevent instead of repair & repent.”
• “Safety is a full-time job; don’t make it a part-time practice.”
• “Feel the ache? Stretch or take a break.”
• “Going home safe today is no accident.”
• “Safety rules are the best tools.”
• “A safe workplace sets the mood for a high achievement attitude.”
• “The door to safety swings on the hinges of common sense.”
• “Ensuring safety is a common business.”
• “Be alert, be aware, be alive.”
• “Alert today. Alive tomorrow.”
• “Safety is a state of mind – accidents are an absence of mind.”
• “Make safety a way of life.”
• “Every accident – every time – if it’s predictable it’s preventable.”
• “It’s better to lose one minute in life… than to lose life in a minute.”
• “This machine can kill you.”
• “A spill, a slip, a hospital trip.”
• “Your workplace is your kingdom. Make it a safe one.”
• “The safe way is the only way.”
• “Stay on top of safety, or it could end up on top of you.”
• “Safety first will make you last.”

Implementing Effective Safety Communication

Proper placement and maintenance of safety boards and messages fall under the responsibility of the administrative department. When positioned correctly, these reminders play a critical role in preventing accidents and fostering a culture of ongoing vigilance in your workplace.

For comprehensive advice on looking after your health and safety at work, visit our dedicated guide.

Workers of England are here to support you. If you have any concerns regarding health and safety at work, please call us at 01206 766899.