Signs of Electrical Hazards and Precautions

Electrical safety is non-negotiable in any workplace, yet safety signs—which play a crucial role in protecting workers—are often overlooked. Even though they’re required by law, OSHA frequently lists electrical safety violations among the top ten most cited workplace hazards. However, even though safety training is crucial to protect workers from electrical hazards, safety signs and their importance are often disregarded.

Workplace safety starts with awareness. That’s why we’re here to break down why safety signs matter, the types you should have, and how to stay compliant.

What Is Electrical Safety?

Electrical safety is a set of standards and procedures put in place to protect workers who handle electrical equipment or work near electrical systems. These regulations help prevent shocks, burns, arc flashes, electrocution, and other serious injuries caused by electric currents, static electricity, and electromagnetic fields.

One of the most effective ways to enforce electrical safety? Proper signage. Electrical safety signs warn, inform, and protect workers, helping them identify hazards quickly and take the right precautions to avoid accidents.

Why Is Electrical Safety Important?

Certain industries—like construction and power generation—face a much higher risk of electrical hazards, with almost 50% of all workplace electrical fatalities occurring in these sectors.

When working around or with electricity, workers need to be able to properly control the area around them to reduce hazards. Inadequate safety training, inexperience, and a misunderstanding of common OSHA safety signs could result in extensive injury, death, and sometimes, even civil litigation.    

Safety Sign Requirements  

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI), the National Electrical Code (NEC), and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) all have specific regulations for electrical safety signs that need to be followed. OSHA’s safety sign rule in 29 CFR 1910.335(b) states a clear call for safety signage and the signs must be posted where electrical hazards are present. Once these legal requirements are met, it’s best practice to follow NFPA 70E recommendations for optimal workplace safety.

Types of Electrical Safety Signs

Electrical safety signs typically use words and symbols to communicate potential hazards. Here are the most common types:

• Danger sign – includes the word “danger” and is often accompanied by a triangle with an enclosed exclamation point or lightning bolt. If the outcome is serious bodily injury or death, this symbol will be used. 
• Warning sign – if there is a chance of a hazard occurring that could result in injury or death, this symbol will be used. You may see the word “warning” accompanied by a triangle with an enclosed lightning bolt. 
• Caution sign – if an injury were to occur, the outcome would most likely be minor to moderate if you see a caution symbol. This symbol often uses the words “caution” and “electrical hazard” as well as a lightning bolt.
• Notice sign – a notice sign indicates that some level of property or equipment damage could occur. This symbol is usually marked with the word “notice” in blue as well as a triangle with an enclosed lightning bolt.
• Voltage markers – these orange labels contain black text and are used to label all your electrical wiring and conduit so the amount of voltage in each line is marked.
• Arc flash labels – these signs identify equipment-specific hazard information for energized switchboards, panel boards, control panels, and more. They also offer guidance on choosing the correct PPE for safe work. 
• Electrical clearance signs – OSHA requires a clear working area near most electrical panels and controls, as outlined in rule 29 CFR 1910.303(g)(1). These signs indicate the amount of space needed to be kept free to remain in compliance. 

Since 1988, North Central Electric has been a trusted provider of electrical services for the utility, commercial, and industrial sectors. If your facility needs guidance on OSHA-compliant electrical safety procedures, we’re here to help.

Need to ensure your electrical safety measures are up to code? Get in touch with our electrical engineers today and let us help you protect your employees.