Choosing the Right Sign Material Doesn't Have to Be Confusing
This guide helps you select the best material for your safety signs, ensuring they're effective and long-lasting.
- Typical signs needed: 10-50
- Time to read: 8 mins
- Difficulty: Easy
Self-Adhesive Signs: When to Stick With Them
Self-adhesive signs are a cost-effective and easy-to-install option for smooth, clean surfaces. They're ideal for indoor use and quick updates.
You'll find self-adhesive signs perfect for doors, windows, and smooth walls. They're especially useful for fire door keep shut signs on fire doors and CCTV signs near cameras. For smaller signs like mandatory PPE signs at entry points to specific areas, self-adhesive is often sufficient. Make sure to clean the surface before applying for maximum adhesion.
| Item | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fire door keep shut signs | 2-5 | Self-adhesive, one per fire door |
| CCTV signs | 3-6 | Self-adhesive, near cameras and entry points |
| PPE mandatory signs | 2-10 | Self-adhesive, at zone entry points |
Quick Tip: For best results, use a clean cloth and alcohol to prep the surface before applying self-adhesive signs.
Next, let's look at rigid plastic signs.
Rigid Plastic Signs: Durability for Demanding Environments
Rigid plastic signs offer superior durability and are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. They withstand wear and tear, making them a reliable choice for high-traffic areas.
You'll need rigid plastic signs in areas where signs are likely to be bumped, scratched, or exposed to moisture. Think about fire exit signs in corridors or near doorways, warning signs in warehouses, and first aid signs in workshops. Consider using a larger size, such as 450x600mm, for hazard signs in areas with moving machinery. Mount them securely with screws or adhesive suitable for the surface. For outdoor use, UV-resistant plastic is crucial to prevent fading.
| Item | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fire exit signs | 5-10 | Rigid plastic, near exits and along escape routes |
| Warning signs | 4-8 | Rigid plastic, in warehouses and near hazards |
| First aid signs | 1-3 | Rigid plastic, near first aid stations |
Quick Tip: Choose a thicker gauge of rigid plastic for outdoor signs or areas prone to vandalism.
Now, let's explore photoluminescent signs for emergency situations.
Photoluminescent Signs: Glow-in-the-Dark Safety
Photoluminescent (glow-in-the-dark) signs are essential for emergency situations where lighting may fail. They provide clear visibility of escape routes and safety equipment.
You'll definitely want photoluminescent signs for all fire exit signs and fire equipment signs. These signs absorb light and emit it when the power goes out, ensuring people can find their way to safety. Prioritise photoluminescent fire action signs near fire alarm call points and emergency escape route signs along corridors. Choose a high-quality photoluminescent material that meets relevant standards. Consider a 300x100mm size for standard fire exit signs and larger sizes for longer viewing distances.
| Item | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fire exit signs | 5-15 | Photoluminescent, at each exit and along escape routes |
| Fire equipment signs | 2-6 | Photoluminescent, near fire extinguishers and hose reels |
| Fire action signs | 1-3 | Photoluminescent, near fire alarm call points |
Quick Tip: Regularly check your photoluminescent signs to ensure they are charging properly and haven't deteriorated.
Ready to put it all together? See our buying checklist below.
Complete Buying Checklist
Use this checklist when ordering...
Fire Safety
| Product | Qty | Size | Material |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fire exit signs | 5-15 | 300x100mm | Photoluminescent |
| Fire door keep shut signs | 2-5 | 200x300mm | Self-adhesive |
General Safety
| Product | Qty | Size | Material |
|---|---|---|---|
| Warning signs | 4-8 | 300x400mm | Rigid Plastic |
| PPE mandatory signs | 2-10 | 200x300mm | Self-adhesive |
Estimated Total: 13-38 signs, approximately £150-400
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right size of safety sign?
The size of your safety signs depends on the viewing distance. As a general rule, for every metre of viewing distance, you need approximately 25mm of sign height. So, for a sign that needs to be read from 10 metres away, you'll want a sign that's at least 250mm tall. For longer distances, consider larger rigid plastic signs for maximum visibility. See our Safety Sign Sizes Explained guide for more details.
What are the legal requirements for safety signs in the UK?
While we don't provide legal advice, you'll need to ensure your signs comply with the Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations. This means using the correct symbols, colours, and sizes for different types of hazards and instructions. You'll need mandatory signs to instruct, warning signs to alert, and fire exit signs to guide. Consult the regulations or a health and safety professional for specific requirements. Also, see our Fire Safety Order Requirements
Ready to order?
You now understand the differences between self-adhesive, rigid plastic, and photoluminescent signs and know which materials are best for your specific needs. Start shopping with confidence!
Buying for a large project? Open a Trade Account for exclusive pricing, or request a bulk quote today.
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Need larger quantities or custom signs? Request a trade quote