MS 2558 - 2014 - Tudm - 15092017 PDF

MALAYSIAN MS 2558:2014
STANDARD
Licensed to STANDARDS MALAYSIA / Downloaded on : 12-Jan-2015 12:06:02 PM / Single user license only, copying and networking prohibited
Safety and health signage used in the

workplace - Specification
(First revision)
ICS: 13.100
Descriptors: occupational, safety, health, signage, workplace
© Copyright 2014
DEPARTMENT OF STANDARDS MALAYSIA
Licensed to Tentera Udara Diraja Malaysia use only;
Date: 15/09/2017;Single user license only;copying and
networking prohibited.
DEVELOPMENT OF MALAYSIAN STANDARDS
The Department of Standards Malaysia (STANDARDS MALAYSIA) is the national

standards and accreditation body of Malaysia.
The main function of STANDARDS MALAYSIA is to foster and promote standards,

standardisation and accreditation as a means of advancing the national economy, promoting
industrial efficiency and development, benefiting the health and safety of the public, protecting
the consumers, facilitating domestic and international trade and furthering international
cooperation in relation to standards and standardisation.
Malaysian Standards (MS) are developed through consensus by committees which comprise
balanced representation of producers, users, consumers and others with relevant interests, as
may be appropriate to the subject at hand. To the greatest extent possible, Malaysian
Standards are aligned to or are adoption of international standards. Approval of a standard as
a Malaysian Standard is governed by the Standards of Malaysia Act 1996 [Act 549]. Malaysian
Standards are reviewed periodically. The use of Malaysian Standards is voluntary except in so
far as they are made mandatory by regulatory authorities by means of regulations, local by-
laws or any other similar ways.
For the purposes of Malaysian Standards, the following definitions apply:
Revision: A process where existing Malaysian Standard is reviewed and updated which
resulted in the publication of a new edition of the Malaysian Standard.
Confirmed MS: A Malaysian Standard that has been reviewed by the responsible committee
and confirmed that its contents are current.
Amendment: A process where a provision(s) of existing Malaysian Standard is altered. The

changes are indicated in an amendment page which is incorporated into the existing Malaysian
Standard. Amendments can be of technical and/or editorial nature.
Technical corrigendum: A corrected reprint of the current edition which is issued to correct
either a technical error or ambiguity in a Malaysian Standard inadvertently introduced either in
drafting or in printing and which could lead to incorrect or unsafe application of the publication.
NOTE: Technical corrigenda are not to correct errors which can be assumed to have no consequences in the application
of the MS, for example minor printing errors.
STANDARDS MALAYSIA has appointed SIRIM Berhad as the agent to develop, distribute
and sell Malaysian Standards.
For further information on Malaysian Standards, please contact:
Department of Standards Malaysia OR SIRIM Berhad

Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (Company No. 367474 - V)
Level 1 & 2, Block 2300, Century Square 1, Persiaran Dato’ Menteri
Jalan Usahawan Section 2, P. O. Box 7035
63000 Cyberjaya 40700 Shah Alam
Selangor Darul Ehsan Selangor Darul Ehsan
MALAYSIA MALAYSIA
Tel: 60 3 8318 0002 Tel: 60 3 5544 6000

Fax: 60 3 8319 3131 Fax: 60 3 5510 8095
http://www.standardsmalaysia.gov.my http://www.sirim.my
E-mail: central@standardsmalaysia.gov.my E-mail: msonline@sirim.my
MS 2558:2014
Contents
Page
Committee representation ............................................................................................. ii
Foreword... .................................................................................................................... iv
Introduction... ................................................................................................................ v
1 Scope .................................................................................................................. 1
2 Normative references ........................................................................................... 1
3 Terms and definitions........................................................................................... 2
4 General requirements .......................................................................................... 3
5 Categories and layout of signs ............................................................................. 4
6 Design of signs .................................................................................................... 6
7 Installation and maintenance of signs ................................................................... 46
8 Accident prevention tags ...................................................................................... 47
Annex A Categories and layout of signs ................................................................. 49
Annex B Additional design guidelines .................................................................... 54
Annex C Examples of safety colours and contrast colours for object of

ordinary materials .................................................................................... 65
Annex D Guidance on photometric relationships between and within safety

and contrast colours of graphical symbols................................................ 68
Annex E Consideration of defective colour vision ................................................... 70
Annex F Object colour of different types of safety sign and materials ..................... 72
Annex G Classification of emission colour of phosphorescent material ................... 75
Bibliography .................................................................................................................. 77
 STANDARDS MALAYSIA 2014 - All rights reserved i

MS 2558:2014
Committee representation
The Industry Standards Committee on Occupational Safety and Health (ISC W) under whose authority this Malaysian
Standard was developed, comprises representatives from the following organisations:
Business Council Sustainable Development Malaysia

Chemical Industries Council of Malaysia
Construction Industry Development Board Malaysia
Department of Agriculture Malaysia
Department of Chemistry, Malaysia
Department of Environment
Department of Occupational Safety and Health Malaysia
Department of Standards Malaysia
Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers
Jabatan Bomba dan Penyelamat Malaysia
Lloyd’s Register Technical Services Sdn Bhd

Malaysian Employers Federation
Malaysian Industrial Hygiene Association
Malaysian International Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Malaysian Nuclear Agency
Malaysian Society of Occupational Safety and Health
Malaysian Trade Union Congress
Minerals and Geoscience Department Malaysia
Ministry of Health Malaysia
Ministry of International Trade and Industry
National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health
SIRIM Berhad (Secretariat)
SIRIM QAS International Sdn Bhd
SME Corporation Malaysia
Suruhanjaya Tenaga
The Institution of Engineers, Malaysia
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia
The Technical Committee on Safe System of Work and Practices in Occupational Setting which supervised the
development of this Malaysian Standard is managed by the Department of Occupational Safety and Health Malaysia
in its capacity as an authorised Standards-Writing Organisation and consists of representatives from the following
organisations:
Department of Agriculture Malaysia

Department of Chemistry, Malaysia
Department of Fisheries Malaysia
Department of Irrigation and Drainage Malaysia
Department of Occupational Safety and Health Malaysia (Policy and Research Division)
Department of Occupational Safety and Health Malaysia (Secretariat)
Department of Veterinary Services Malaysia
Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers
Forestry Department Peninsular Malaysia
Jabatan Kerja Raya Malaysia
Malaysian Employers Federation
Malaysian Trade Union Congress
Master Builders Association Malaysia
Ministry of Health Malaysia
National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health
National Union of Plantation Workers
NIOSH Certification Sdn Bhd
SIRIM Berhad (Group Business Assurance Department)
SIRIM Berhad (Standards Research and Management Centre)
Social Security Organisation
The Institution of Engineers, Malaysia
The Malayan Agricultural Producers Association
Universiti Putra Malaysia
ii  STANDARDS MALAYSIA 2014 - All rights reserved

MS 2558:2014
Committee representation (continued)
The Working Group on Safety and Health Signage Used in the Workplaces which developed this Malaysian Standard
consists of representatives from the following organisations:
Department of Occupational Safety and Health Malaysia (Policy and Research Division)
Department of Occupational Safety and Health Malaysia (Secretariat)
GISM Sdn Bhd
Jabatan Bomba dan Penyelamat Malaysia
Jabatan Kerja Raya Malaysia
Kemakmuran 2000 Sdn Bhd
Signlab Sdn Bhd
Universiti Putra Malaysia
 STANDARDS MALAYSIA 2014 - All rights reserved iii

MS 2558:2014
Foreword
This Malaysian Standard was developed by the Working Group on Safety and Health Signage
Used in the Workplaces under the authority of the Industry Standards Committee on
Occupational Safety and Health. Development of this standard was carried out by the
Department of Occupational Safety and Health Malaysia which is the Standards-Writing
Organisation (SWO) appointed by SIRIM Berhad to develop standards related to safe
systems of work and practices in occupational setting.
Major modifications in this revision are as follows:
a) to merge the common requirements of MS 980 and MS 981;

b) to include the specification for safety and health signage used in the workplace; and
c) to establish the safety identification colour and design principles for safety signs use at
workplace.
This Malaysian Standard cancels and replaces MS 980:1985, Specification for safety signs
and colours: Colorimetric and photometric properties of materials and MS 981:1985,
Specification for safety signs and colours: Colour and design.
Compliance with a Malaysian Standard does not of itself confer immunity from legal
obligations.
iv  STANDARDS MALAYSIA 2014 - All rights reserved

MS 2558:2014
Introduction
There is a need to standardise a system of giving safety information that relief as little
possible on the use of words to achieve understanding.
Continued growth in international trade, travel and mobility of labour required a common
method of communicating safety information.
Lack of standardisation may lead to confusion and the risk of accidents.
The use of standardised safety signs does not replace proper work method, instructions and
accident prevention training or measures. Education is an essential part of any system that
provides safety information.
 STANDARDS MALAYSIA 2014 - All rights reserved v

MS 2558:2014
Safety and health signage used in the workplace - Specification

(First revision)
1 Scope
This Malaysian Standard prescribes safety sign and establishes the safety identification
colours and design principles for safety signs to be used in workplaces for the purpose of
incident prevention, fire protection, health hazard information and emergency evacuation.
This standard also gives principles, criteria and guidance for the design of graphical symbols
for use in safety signs. However, it is not applicable to the signalling used for guiding rail,
road, river, maritime and air traffic and in general to those sectors subject to the regulation
may differ.
2 Normative references
The following normative references are indispensable for the application of this standard. For
dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of
the normative reference (including any amendments) applies.
ISO 9186-1, Graphical symbols - Test methods - Part 1: Method for testing comprehensibility
ISO 9186-2, Graphical symbols - Test methods - Part 2: Method for testing perceptual quality
ISO 17398, Safety colours and safety signs - Classification, performance and durability of
safety signs
ISO 16069, Graphical symbols - Safety signs - Safety way guidance systems (SWGS)
CIE 15, Colorimetry
 STANDARDS MALAYSIA 2014 - All rights reserved 1

MS 2558:2014
3 Terms and definitions

For the purposes of this standard, the following terms and definitions apply.
3.1 caution
Signal word used to indicate a potential hazardous situation which, if not avoided could result
in minor or moderate injury.
3.2 combination sign
Sign that combines a safety sign and one or more associated supplementary signs on the
same rectangular.
3.3 danger
Signal word used to indicate an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will
result in death or serious injury.
3.4 determinant
Graphical symbol used as a common element within a series of graphical symbols.
NOTE. For example, the fire determinant which, when used with the graphical symbols for a hose reel,
conveys the meaning “fire hose reel” (see Figure 27).
3.5 enclosure
A coloured band that outlines and emphasizes the geometric shape of a sign (sometimes
referred to as the border).
3.6 geometric shape
A characteristic shape and safety colour combination used to identify the functions of a sign,
and which may have a symbol superimposed, or may be used without a superimposed
symbol as an element of a larger sign.
3.7 graphical symbol
Visually perceptible figure with a particular meaning used to transmit information

independently of language.
3.8 legend
The message content of a sign in words (text) or symbols, or a combination of these.
3.9 multiple sign
Sign that combine two or more safety sign and associated supplementary signs on the same
rectangular carrier.
2  STANDARDS MALAYSIA 2014 - All rights reserved

MS 2558:2014
3.10 responsible person
The person appointed by the owner/organisation responsible for the maintenance and
management of safety practices in a workplace or on a work site.
3.11 safety colour
Colour with special properties to which a safety meaning is attributed.
3.12 safety sign
Sign which gives a general safety message, obtained by a combination of a colour and
geometric shape and which, by the addition of a graphical symbol, gives a particular safety
message.
3.13 safety symbol
Visually perceptible figure with a particular meaning used to transmit information

independently of language
3.14 supplementary signs
Sign that is supportive of a safety sign and the main purpose of which is to provide additional
clarification.
3.15 surround
A fine outline of background or base colour on the outer edge of a safety sign that is
sometimes formed during the manufacturing process, or on the outer edge of a dark coloured
border on a light coloured background.
4 General requirements
The following item should be considered when choosing or designing safety sign in the
workplace:
4.1 Suitability for purpose
The responsible person shall ensure that the type of sign used is suitable for the intended
purpose. The assessment should include consideration of the following:
a) hazard identification;
b) the safety symbol or sign should accurately convey the message which needs to be
conveyed by the sign; and
c) where there are to be words on a sign, is it likely that the meaning of the sign will need to
be conveyed to persons not familiar with the Bahasa Melayu and/or English language. In
addition to Bahasa Melayu and/or English, it may be necessary to repeat the message in
one or more other languages, particularly if instant recognition of the message may be
needed in a critical situation. Translated message shall adhere as closely as practicable
to the intent of the Bahasa Melayu and/or English version.

MS 2558:2014
4.2 Accident prevention and awareness
4.2.1 Safety sign should draw attention to objects and situations affecting safety and
health.
4.2.2 Explanations of their functions and meaning should be included in employee

induction training programmes.
4.2.3 Employees should be informed beforehand and an explanation shall be given for the
introduction of a new sign or the change in location of an existing one.
4.2.4 Safety signs should not replace for proper accident prevention measures.
5 Categories and layout of signs

5.1 Sign classification and use
Safety signs are categorised according to their functions as in Annex A:
5.1.1 Safe condition signs (E)
Signs indicating an evacuation route, the location of safety equipment or a safety facility, or a
safety action (safe condition signs).
5.1.2 Fire safety signs (F)
Signs advising the location of fire alarms and fire-fighting facilities.
5.1.3 Mandatory action signs (M)
Signs indicating an instruction shall be carried out.
5.1.4 Prohibition signs (P)
Signs indicating an action or activity are not permitted.
5.1.5 Warning signs (W)
Signs warning of a hazard or hazardous condition.
5.2 General meaning of geometric shapes and safety colours
5.2.1 The purpose of safety colours and safety signs is to draw attention rapidly to objects
and situations affecting safety and health to gain understanding of a specific message.
5.2.2 Safety signs shall be used only for instructions which are related to the safety and
health of people.
5.2.3 The general meaning assigned to geometric shapes and colours and contrast colours
for each of the sign categories listed as shown in Tables 1 and 2.

MS 2558:2014
Table 1. General meaning of geometric shapes, safety colours and contrast for safety
signs
Geometric shape Meaning Safety Contrast Graphical Example of use

colour colour to symbol
the safety colour
colour
- No naked light
- No unauthorised
Prohibition Red White Black vehicles
- Do not drink
Circle with diagonal bar
- Wear eye
protector
Mandatory Blue White White - Wear personal
action protective
equipment
Circle - Switch off before
beginning
- Warning; Hot
surface
Warning Yellow Black Black - Warning;
Biological hazard
- Warning;
Electricity
Equilateral triangle with
radiused outer corners
- Fire aid room

Safe - Fire exit
condition Green White White - Fire assembly
point
Square
- Fire alarm call

point
- Fire fighting
Fire safety Red White White equipment
Square - Fire extinguisher

MS 2558:2014
Table 2. Geometric shape, background colours and contrast colours for supplementary
signs
Geometric shape Meaning Background Contrast Colour of

colour colour to supplementary
background safety information
colour
White Black
Supplementary
information Safety colour Black or Any
of the safety white

sign
Rectangular
It is essential to achieve a luminance contrast between the safety sign and its background as
well as between the supplementary sign and its background on which they are mounted or
displayed.
6 Design of signs
6.1 General requirements
The design of safety signs shall conform to the following general requirements:
a) Safety signs except as provided in 6.2, shall be selected from those in the illustrated
index of standard signs in Table 3.
b) Signs with text/symbols combination or texts only, except for DANGER signs, the
following shall apply:
i) Where a safety sign forms part of a text/symbol combination sign the safety sign
element shall be selected strictly in accordance with item a) above.
ii) Where geometric shape is used in supplementary information the geometric shape
shall be in accordance with Table 2 as regards both shape and colour.
6.2 Design of safety symbols for use in safety signs
Before designing a safety symbol, the designer shall:
a) develop a clear and unambiguous description of the hazard that the safety symbol is
intended to address;
b) confirm that a new safety symbol for use in a safety sign is required (i.e. confirm that a
suitable safety symbols does not already exist) (see 6.3);
c) identify the safety message that the safety sign is intended to convey;

MS 2558:2014
d) define the characteristics of the target group, including their general skill and ability to
understand the information that the particular safety sign is intended to convey and
design the safety symbol for that group;
e) assign a meaning and function to the safety sign in accordance with 6.5; and
f) identify the type of the safety sign required.
Consideration should be given as to whether the safety symbol could be used in any other
type of sign, and the design implication this may have (e.g. the effect of a negation bar on
safety symbol originally designed for use in a mandatory action sign and the effect of
restricted space within the warning triangle).
During the creation process, the designer shall follow the criteria given in 6.6.
Designers are strongly recommended to use the guidelines set out in Annex B.
6.3 Review of existing standard signs
The designer shall determine:
a) whether a safety sign incorporating a safety symbols conveying the required meaning is
specified in Tables 3 and 4;
b) whether a safety symbol with similar meaning might be adapted or combined to form the
safety symbol for the new safety sign; and
c) whether there are standardised determinants appropriate for use with the safety symbols
for the new safety signs.
Table 3 gives the list of references in alphabetical order and provides the safety sign
functional reference number.
Table 4 summarises the standardised safety signs used in workplaces and public areas in
terms of function category, graphical as well as geometric shape and colour.
Table 3. Summary of referents by alphabetical order
Referent (safety meaning) Functional reference number

Automated external heart defibrillator E010
Automated start-up, warning W018
Battery charging, warning W026
Biological hazard, warning W009
Break to obtain access E008
Connect an earth terminal to the ground M005
Corrosive substance, warning W023
Counterrotating rollers, warning W025

MS 2558:2014
Table 3. Summary of referents by alphabetical order (continued)

Crushing, warning W019
Crushing of hands, warning W024
Disconnect before carrying out maintenance or repair M021
Disconnect mains plug from electrical outlet M006
Doctor E009
Do not alter the state of the switch P031
Do not extinguish with water P011
Do not obstruct P023

Do not tie knots in rope P030
Do not touch P010
Do not use for face grinding P032
Do not use for wet grinding P033
Do not use lift in the event of fire P020
Do not use this device in a bathtub, shower or water-filled reservoir P026
Do not use this incomplete scaffold P025
Do not use this lift for people P027
Do not use with hand-held grinding machine P034
Do not walk or stand here P024
Do not wear gloves P028
Drop (fall), warning W008
Electricity, warning W012
Emergency exit (left hand) E001
Emergency exit (right hand) E002
Emergency telephone E004
Emergency window with escape ladder E016
Evacuation assembly point E007
Explosive material, warning W002
Eyewash station E011
Fire alarm call point F005
Fire emergency telephone F006
Fire extinguisher F001
Fire fighting equipment, collection of F004
Fire hose reel F002
Fire ladder F003
First aid E003

MS 2558:2014
Table 3. Summary of referents by alphabetical order (continued)

Flammable materials, warning W021
Floor-level obstacle, warning W007
Forklift trucks and other industrial vehicles, warning W014
General mandatory action sign M001
General prohibition sign P001
General warning sign W001
Guard dog, warning W013
Hot surface, warning W017

Laser beam, warning W004
Low temperature/freezing conditions, warning W010
Magnetic field, warning W006
No access for forklift trucks and other industrial vehicles P006
No access for people with active implanted cardiac devices P007
No access for people with metallic implants P014
No activated mobile phones P013
No dogs P021
No eating or drinking P022
No heavy load P012
No metallic articles or watches P008
No open flame, Fire, open ignition source and smoking prohibited P003
No photography P029
No pushing P017
No reaching in P015
No sitting P018
No smoking P002
No stepping on surface P019
No thoroughfare P004
Non-ionising radiation, warning W005
Not drinking water P005
Opaque eye protection shall be worn M007
Optical radiation, warning W027
Overhead load, warning W015
Overhead obstacle, warning W020
Oxidising substances, warning W028

MS 2558:2014
Table 3. Summary of referents by alphabetical order (concluded)

Pressurised cylinder, warning W029
Protect infants’ eyes with opaque eye protection M025
Radioactive material or ionising radiation, warning W003
Refer to instruction manual/booklet M002
Rescue window E017
Safety shower E012
Sharp element, warning W022
Slippery surface, warning W011

Stretcher E013
Toxic material, warning W016
Turn anticlockwise to open E018
Turn clockwise to open E019
Use barrier cream M022
Use footbridge M023
Use handrail M012
Use protective apron M026
Use this walkway M024
Wash your hands M011
Wear ear protection M003
Wear eye protection M004
Wear a face shield M013
Wear head protection M014
Wear high-visibility clothing M015
Wear a mask M016
Wear protective clothing M010
Wear protective gloves M009
Wear respiratory protection M017
Wear safety belts M020
Wear safety footwear M008
Wear a safety hardness M018
Wear a welding mask M019

MS 2558:2014
Table 4. Summary of all safety sign


MS 2558:2014
Table 4. Summary of all safety sign (continued)


MS 2558:2014


MS 2558:2014


MS 2558:2014


MS 2558:2014


MS 2558:2014
Table 4. Summary of all safety sign (concluded)


MS 2558:2014
6.4 Design layout of safety sign
The safety colour, contrast colour and geometric shapes shall be used only in the following
combinations to obtain the five basic types of safety signs (Figures 1 to 7).
6.4.1 Prohibition signs
Prohibition signs shall comply with the layout requirements given in Figure 1.
Key
d diameter
The colours of the sign shall be as follows:

- background colour: white
- circular band and diagonal bar: red
- graphical symbols: black
Figure 1. Layout requirements for a prohibition signs

MS 2558:2014
6.4.2 Mandatory action signs
Mandatory action signs shall comply with the layout requirements given in Figure 2.
Key
d diameter

- background colour: blue
- graphical symbols: white
The safety colour blue shall cover at least 50 % of the area of the sign.
Figure 2. Layout requirements for a mandatory action sign

MS 2558:2014
6.4.3 Warning signs
Warning signs shall comply with the layout requirements given in Figure 3.
Key
b width
h height
r radius
If b = 70 mm, then r = 2 mm

- background colour: yellow
- triangular band: black
- graphical symbols: black
The safety colour shall cover at least 50 % of the total area of the sign.
Figure 3. Layout requirements for a warning action signs

MS 2558:2014
6.4.4 Safe condition signs
Safe condition signs shall comply with the layout requirements given in Figure 4.
Key
a length or width

- background colour: green
The safety colour green shall cover at least 50 % of the area of the sign.
Figure 4. Layout requirements for a square safe condition signs
6.4.5 Fire safety signs
Fire safety signs shall comply with the layout requirements given in Figure 5.
Key
a length or width

- background colour: red
The safety colour red shall cover at least 50 % of the area of the sign.
Figure 5. Layout requirements for a square fire safety signs

MS 2558:2014
6.4.6 Layout for supplementary signs
Supplementary safety information, as text and/or in the form of a graphical symbol may be
used to describe, supplement or clarify the meaning of a safety sign. The supplementary
safety information shall be placed in a separate supplementary sign or included as part of a
combination sign in 6.4.7 or a multiple sign in 6.4.8.
Supplementary signs shall comply with the layout requirements given in Figure 6.
Key
a length
b width
The colour of the sign shall be as follow:

- background colour: white or safety colour of the safety sign
Figure 6. Layout requirements for a supplementary signs

MS 2558:2014
Supplementary signs can be placed above, below, to the left or to the right of a safety sign.
Examples of layouts for supplementary sign are shown in Figure 7.

Figure 7. Examples of position assignment of a supplementary sign

MS 2558:2014
6.4.7 Layout for combination signs
Combination signs shall comply with the layout requirements given in Figures 8 and 9.

- colour of sign carrier: safety colour of the safety sign or white
Figure 8. Layout for a combination sign with the supplementary sign below the safety
sign

Colour of sign carrier: safety colour of the safety sign or white
Figure 9. Layout for a combination sign with the supplementary sign to the right of the
safety sign
6.4.8 Layouts for multiple signs
Multiple signs are means of communicating complex safety messages. Examples of layouts
for a multiple sign used to communicate a warning, a mandatory action and a prohibition are
given in Figures 10 to13.
The order of the safety signs (and any corresponding supplementary signs) should be
displayed according to the order of priority that is chosen for each of the safety messages.

MS 2558:2014
Figure 10. Example of a vertical layout for a multiple sign
Figure 11. Example of a horizontal layout for a multiple sign
Figure 12. Example of using horizontal layout for a multiple sign

MS 2558:2014
Figure 13. Layout of safety signs used together with a separate supplementary sign
6.5 Assignment of meaning, function and image content to the safety sign
The new safety sign shall be assigned a meaning and a function. Once the safety sign
original is complete, the image content shall be identified, including the critical details.
Example of such sign is given in Figure 14.
Meaning: No Smoking
Function: To prohibit smoking
Image content: Cigarette shown in profile with smoke. Critical details are the cigarette and
smoke plume.
Figure 14. Example of assignment of meaning, function and image content to a safety
sign

MS 2558:2014
6.6 Design criteria
6.6.1 Geometric shapes and colour of safety signs
The safety symbol shall be designed within the appropriate safety sign template. The safety
sign templates may be used but the designer shall conform to the geometrical shapes and
colour given in Table 1.
The safety colour as given in Annex C should be used or the closest possible colours match.
6.6.2 Size and position of the graphical symbol
The safety symbols shall make full use of the possible area within the safety sign template
and shall be centred whenever possible. For examples, refer to Figures 15 to 19.
Figure 15. No thoroughfare
A supplementary text sign is required with the general mandatory action sign.
Figure 16. General mandatory action sign

MS 2558:2014
Figure 17. Warning; Obstacles
Figure 18. Fire extinguisher
6.6.3 Layout of templates
The new layout sign original shall be provided without borders in a uniform 70 mm size with
corner marks to enable accurate enlargement and reduction (Figure 19).
Figure 19. Area of 70 mm size marked with corner marks (empty)
The safety sign shall make full use of the area within the corner marks such that:
a) mandatory action signs and prohibition circular signs are circles 70 mm diameter;

MS 2558:2014
b) safe condition signs and fire safety sign are squares with 70 mm sides; and
c) warning sign are triangle is 70 mm in width of the base.
6.6.4 Exclusion zone
6.6.4.1 General
The graphical safety symbol within the safety sign shall not extend into the exclusion zone
indicated by a dotted line as shown in the following safety sign templates (Figures 20 to 24)
except where absolutely necessary to maintain visual clarity and understanding.
6.6.4.2 Prohibition signs

Exclusion zone: A zone, set within the circular graphic area, which has a width equal 0.033 of
the outer diameter of the sign.
The boundary of the exclusive zone is shown by a dotted black line.
Figure 20. Exclusion zone for prohibition signs
6.6.4.3 Mandatory action signs
Exclusion zone: A zone, set within the circle, which has a width equal to 0.08 of the outer
diameter of the sign.
The boundary of the exclusion zone is shown by a dotted white line.
Figure 21. Exclusion zone for mandatory action signs

MS 2558:2014
6.6.4.4 Warning signs

Exclusion zone: A zone, set within the triangle, which has a width equal to 0.033 of the sign
height.
The boundary of the exclusion zone is shown by a dotted black line.
Figure 22. Exclusion zone for warning signs
6.6.4.5 Safe condition signs and fire safety signs
Exclusion zone: A zone, set within the square, which has a width equal to 0.08 of the square
height.
Figure 23. Exclusion zone for safe condition signs

MS 2558:2014
Exclusion zone: A zone, set within the square, which has a width equal to 0.08 of the square
height.
Figure 24. Exclusion zone for fire safety signs
6.6.5 Line width
Lines used in a graphical symbol shall have a minimum width of 1 mm within the relevant
templates given in 6.6.4, except where it is absolutely necessary for lines to be thinner in
order to accurately represent the object or hazard, in which case the minimum width can be
reduced to 0.5 mm. Figure 25 shows an example where the lines width exceeds 1 mm and
Figure 26 shows an example where the minimum line width (minute hand of watch) is 0.5
mm.
The spacing between lines should take into account visual clarity.
To check legibility of a graphical symbols in Clause B.5.
Original size (70 mm) and size reduction to 25 %
Figure 25. Warning; Non-ionising radiation

MS 2558:2014
Original size (70 mm) and size reduction to 25 %
Figure 26. No metallic articles or watches
6.6.6 Consistency within a family of graphical symbols
To ensure consistency in graphical symbols design, designers shall use existing symbols
elements from Table 3 wherever possible. This principle is particularly important when
designing a group of safety signs that have different but related meanings. Where new
symbols are formulated, the designer shall conform to relevant standards.
6.6.7 Determinants
The use of a common element across a family of safety signs can demonstrate a linked basic
meaning and improve comprehension. Example of such common element is the white flames
in fire safety signs in Figure 27.
Where determinants are used to add meaning to a family of safety signs, they shall be used
without any modification.
Figure 27. Fire hose reel

MS 2558:2014
6.6.8 Combination of graphical symbols or graphical symbol elements
If two or more graphical symbols or graphical symbol elements are combined to form a new
symbol, the meaning assigned to the new symbol shall be consistent with the meaning of the
individual safety symbols or safety symbol element used.
The new safety symbol should consist of as few components as possible and the meaning
should be unambiguous.
Safety sign in which two or more graphical symbols or graphical symbols elements have been
combined to produce new symbols shall be considered as new safety signs.
6.6.9 Use of arrows in safety symbols

Arrows can be added to show actual or potential movement. Where arrows are used to depict
different types of movement, forces or pressure, the form of the arrow shall be in accordance
with Table 5. The dimensions of directional arrows are given in Figure 28.
NOTES:
1. Arrow form Type A can be used to indicate the direction of motion of components in graphical
symbols, or to indicate falling or flying objects.
2. Arrow form Type C can be used to indicate flow of a fluid.
Table 5. Form and use of arrows
Nominal angle
Form Representation of the arrow Meaning
head
Type A 60° Movement in one direction
Type B 60° - Rotational movement
- Clockwise rotation
- Anticlockwise rotation
Type B 84° Force or pressure

MS 2558:2014
Table 5. Form and use of arrows (continued)
Nominal angle
Form Representation of the arrow Meaning
head
Type D 84° to 86° Movement of people

Arrow proportions Arrow proportions

B D L B C D E L
1.41A
0.64A 0.30A 1.41A min. 0.83A 0.33A 0.28A 0.38A
min.
Figure 28. Dimensions of directional arrows
6.6.10 Characters
Letters, numbers, punctuation marks and mathematical symbols as part of safety symbols
shall not be used as parts of graphical symbols.
NOTE. The only exception to this rule is the use of the exclamation mark in the general warning sign
and in the general mandatory action sign.

MS 2558:2014
6.7 Relationship between dimensions of safety signs and distance of observation
6.7.1 General
This part relates to the perceptual quality of the graphical symbol elements of safety signs,
not the comprehensive or meaning of the safety sign. In addition to being comprehensible, a
graphical symbol should have sufficient perceptual quality to enable the eventual user
population in a practical situation to identify its elements correctly. If the symbol’s ultimate
meaning is to be understood, it is essential that its elements be identifiable.
As the distance of observation from a safety sign increases, the subtended visual angles of
graphical symbols decrease. The task of identifying the graphical symbols elements is more
difficult as the distance of observation increases, which results in smaller percentages of the
user population correctly identifying the graphical symbols elements. Hence at some short
distance of the observation, the design of the graphical symbols elements should be such that
a very high percentage of the intended user population is able to correctly identify the
graphical symbol elements; whereas at some longer distance of observation, a low
percentage or none of the intended user populations would be able to do so. Because the
distance for correct identification of the graphical symbols element varies between individuals,
the probability that a certain percentage of the intended user population can make the correct
identification is statistical in nature. It is therefore important that a high percentage of the
intended user population be able to correctly identify the graphical symbols and comprehend
the meaning of the safety sign at a distance such they are able to follow the safety message.
A practical criterion is that at least 85 % of the intended user population would correctly
identify the graphical symbol elements at the minimum safe observation distance for the
safety sign.
The evaluation of identifiability of graphical symbol elements is a complex task. Various

factors and conditions influence the identifiability:
a) size of the graphical symbols elements and parts thereof within the safety sign
geometrical shape;
b) whether the safety sign is an externally illuminated or internally illuminated safety sign
and the materials used;
c) luminance, luminance contrast or contrast between the graphical symbols and

background of the safety sign geometrical shape;
d) illumination conditions;
e) observation angle;
f) visual acuity of the intended user population - whether normal sighed (normal visual
acuity), wearing correction lenses or having vision impairment; and
g) familiarity with the depicted object or shape.
NOTE. Annex D provides guidance on photometric relationships between and within safety and contrast
colours of graphical symbols.

MS 2558:2014
6.7.2 Distance factor for observing normal to the safety sign
Distance factor z is used in the relationship between observation distance, l and the height of
the safety sign, h which is specified in 6.4.1 to 6.4.5. The dimension units h and l are the
same. Figure 29 illustrates an observation distance from an observation position normal to the
centre of the safety sign. The subscript “0” on z0 denotes that the observation position is
normal to the centre of the safety sign.
Figure 29. Example of observation distance normal to the centre of the safety sign
For the height h of the sign take:
- d for prohibition and mandatory actions signs in 6.4.1 and 6.4.2;
- h for warning sign in 6.4.3; and
- a for safe condition signs, fire equipment signs and supplementary signs in 6.4.4, 6.4.5
and 6.4.6.
The distance factors depend upon the perceptual characteristics of the graphical symbol
elements and their size within the basic geometric shape of the safety sign. The relative size
of the graphical symbols elements and basic geometric shape of the safety sign are fixed in
the safety sign as given in Table 2.
For a given intended user population and illumination condition, the value of z0 can vary
between safety signs. For externally illuminated safety signs with about 100 lx measured on
the surface of the safety sign and a user population with normal sight or corrected sight, use
the test method specified in ISO 9186-2 to determine a value z0 associated with a criterion
percentage of at least 85 % correct identification of the graphical symbol elements. However,
where the percentage of a normal sighted population correctly identifying the graphical
symbols elements is not known for the specific safety sign, use a general value z0 of 60.
For externally illuminated safety signs, the distance factor is affected by the level of
illumination at the sign. In general, for externally illuminated safety sign in a low illumination
environment, such as illumination by emergency lighting, z0 should be multiplied by a factor
0.5.
For externally illuminated emergency exit signs, E001 and E002, the recommended values of
z0 at different illumination levels are given in Table 6. The same values of z0 can be applied to
externally illuminated supplementary direction arrows.

MS 2558:2014
Table 6. Distance factor z0 for externally illuminated emergency exit signs based on
ordinary materials or phosphorescent materials
Vertical illuminance at sign Distance factor,

(lx) z0
≥5 95
≥ 100 170
≥ 200 185
≥ 400 200
NOTE. Over the illuminance range up to about 200 lx, z0 varies approximately linearly with the
logarithm of illuminance.
For internally illuminated safety signs, distance factor is affected by the illuminance and
luminance contrast of the safety signs. Generalised values of distance factor are not
available. The test method of ISO 9186-2 can be adapted by using set longer observation
distances in a darkened environment.
For internally illuminated emergency exit signs, E001 and E002, recommended values of z0 at
different luminances of the white contrast colour are given in Table 7. The same values of z0
can be applied to internally illuminate supplementary direction arrows.
Table 7. Distance factor z0 for internally illuminated emergency exit signs
Mean luminance of white contrast colour Distance factor,

(cd/m2) z0
≥ 10 150
≥ 30 175
≥ 100 200
≥ 200 215
≥ 500 230
NOTE. Over the illuminance range up to about 50 cd/m2, z0 varies approximately linearly with the
logarithm of illuminance.
People with impaired vision can have visual acuity. For people with 6/60 visual acuity, z0
should be multiplied by a factor of 0.1.
NOTE. The equivalent numerical visual acuity of 6/60 is 0.1. 6/6 for people with normal sight is a
numerical visual acuity of 1.
Consideration of defective colour vision is given in Annex E.

MS 2558:2014
6.7.3 Distance factor for observing the safety sign from different angle
When the observation is at an angle to the normal of the safety sign, the projected
dimensions of the sign are reduced, thereby reducing the observation distance for correct
identification of the graphical symbol elements.
For an externally or internally illuminated safety sign with Lambertian intensity characteristics,
if α is the angle between the direct line of sight and lines of the normal to the sign (from the
centre point of the sign), the factor for this angle, zα is calculated as follow:
zα = z0 cosα
For example, when observing a safety sign at 30°, 45° or 60° to the normal, z0 should be
multiplied by 0.87, 0.71 or 0.5 respectively.
Observation distances for equal identifiability of graphical symbol elements of a safety sign
are rings of diameter z0. Figure 30 illustrates rings in vertical and horizontal planes. In three
dimensions, the ring forms the outer surface of a sphere of diameter z0.
Key
1 vertical ring of diameter z0 2 horizontal ring diameter z0
3 observation distance normal to safety 4 observation distance at angle α to

sign, z0 normal, z0 cosα
5 plane of safety sign
Figure 30. Vertical and horizontal rings for observation distances of equal identifiability
of graphical symbol elements of the safety sign

MS 2558:2014
6.7.4 Selection of size of safety sign
Observers need to be informed of potential hazards and of the safety precautions and/or
action required to avoid the hazards before the observers makes any contact with the
hazards. The diameter of circular ring of equal identifiability varies according to the
percentage of correct identifiability. Figure 31 illustrates three circular rings on the horizontal
plane normal to the centre of the safety sign for different percentages for correct identification
of the graphical symbol elements.
Key
Horizontal ring for 85 % correct identification - ring diameter z0
Horizontal ring for 50 % correct identification - ring diameter 1.5z0
Horizontal ring for 15 % correct identification - ring diameter 2.5z0
Figure 31. Examples of horizontal rings for observation distance for correction
identification of the graphical symbol elements of the safety sign by 85 %, 50 % and
15 % of a user population
Risk assessment of the hazard should be carried out to determine an appropriate safe
observation distance, ls for the intended user population, angles of observation (including
angles of approach to the safety sign) and lighting conditions.
The minimum height of the safety sign, in millimetres (mm), can be calculated from the
following equation:
h ≥ ls /z
where
ls is the required safe observation distance in millimetres (mm); and
z is the relevant distance factor.

MS 2558:2014
6.7.5 Sign size modification
The selection of a sign size to satisfy minimum legibility requirements above may not result in
a satisfactory sign. The following factors may require an increase in the size of the sign:
a) The need to ensure that the sign is conspicuous against a visually complex background.
b) The need to emphasise particularly important message such as a sign warning of a

serious hazard, or providing vital information in an extreme emergency.
c) The need to compensate for particularly poor illumination of the sign.
Increases of at least 50 % in the area of a sign may be required in such cases.

6.8 Colorimetric and photometric properties of safety sign materials
6.8.1 General
All colorimetric and photometric requirements apply to the materials as used in the finished
sign.
The safety colours and contrast colours for the geometric shape of safety signs and the
graphical symbols for particular types of safety sign.
The requirements are based on the CIE 2° standard colorimetric observer, as specified in CIE
15.
Where the requirement involves the colour of the sign materials under external illuminated,
the requirements are based on CIE Standard illuminant D65 at either an angle 45° with the
normal to the surface and the observation made in the direction of the normal (45°a:0°
geometry) or normal to the surface and observation made in the direction of 45° to the surface
(0°:45°a geometry).
NOTE. Information on colour characteristic of externally illuminated, internally illuminated and

phosphorescent materials is given in Annex F.
Safety sign without an integral source of light are required to be externally illuminated for their
intended function.
Internally illuminated safety sign are classified as “maintained” (integral light source is
powered) or “non-maintained” (sign is externally illuminated when the integral light source is
unpowered, but in an emergency condition the integral light source is powered). If the sign is
intended to be dimmed, the requirements need to be met under this condition as well.
Phosphorescent safety sign have applications in both lit and unlit environments. For example,
during an emergency, the excited phosphorescent materials emit light over a period time.
Requirements are specified in terms of colour region for each named colour.

MS 2558:2014
Requirements for safety sign comprised of ordinary materials are specified in 6.8.2.1.
Requirements for non-maintained internally illuminated safety sign are specified in 6.8.2.2
(when the integral light source is not powered) and in 6.8.3 (when the integral light source is
powered). Requirements for maintained internally illuminated safety sign are specified in
6.8.3. Requirements for phosphorescent safety signs under external illuminated are specified
in 6.8.2.3
The materials are no longer considered suitable for safety use if, the chromaticity coordinates
and/or luminance factors fall outside the colour regions given in Table 8 for the type of safety
sign materials, or the chromaticity coordinates and/or luminance or luminance contrast fall
outside the ranges given in Tables 9 and 10 for the type of safety sign.
For classification purposes by manufacturers, the performance requirements for the test
emission colour of phosphorescent materials are given in Annex G.
6.8.2 Object colour under external illumination
6.8.2.1 Safety sign comprising ordinary materials
When the object colour is tested, the chromaticity coordinates of each colour shall fall within
the relevant colour region specified in Table 8, as illustrated in Figure 32. The luminance
factor for each colour shall be as specified in Table 8. Examples of safety colours and
contrast colours for object of ordinary materials are given in Annex C.
6.8.2.2 Unpowered internally illuminated safety sign under external illumination
When an unpowered internally illuminated safety sign is tested, the chromaticity coordinates
of each colour shall fall within the relevant colour region specified in Table 8, as illustrated in
Figure 32. The luminance factor for each colour shall be as specified in Table 8.
6.8.2.3 Phosphorescent safety sign under external illumination
When the phosphorescent material substrate, or phosphorescent material with colour printed
on the phosphorescent surface, is tested, the chromaticity coordinates of each colour shall fall
within the relevant colour regions specified in Table 8, as illustrated in Figure 32. The
luminance factor for each colour shall be as specified in Table 8.
6.8.3 Object colour of powered internally illuminated safety signs
The chromaticity coordinates for the object colour of a powered internally illuminated safety
sign shall fall within the relevant colour region specified in Table 9 and as illustrated in Figure
33.
The luminance contrast, k, shall be as specified in Table 10.
The ratio of minimum luminance to maximum luminance within either white or the safety
colour shall be greater than 1:5. If the luminance of the safety sign is greater than 100 cd/m2,
the ratio of minimum to maximum luminance within the colour shall be greater than 1:10.
In application of powered internally illuminated safety sign in normal lighting conditions, higher
luminance values of the sign should be appropriate to the luminous environment for legibility.
The criteria for luminance contrast and the ratio of luminances within each colour shall be
met.

MS 2558:2014
The requirements of this clause shall also apply to non-maintained internally illuminated
safety sign when the integral light source is powered.
Table 8. Colour regions: chromaticity coordinates and luminance factor for object
colour of ordinary material, phosphorescent materials and unpowered internally
illuminated safety sign under external illumination
Corner points of colour region

CIE standard illuminant D65 Luminance factor,
Colour region β
CIE 2° standard colorimetric observer
1 2 3 4 Minimum Maximum
Red x 0.705 0.592 0.574 0.663

0.07 0.2
y 0.295 0.291 0.351 0.337
Yellow x 0.475 0.538 0.470 0.427

0.45 0.70
y 0.525 0.462 0.424 0.472
Green x 0.201 0.285 0.170 0.026

0.11 0.25
y 0.776 0.441 0.364 0.399
Blue x 0.078 0.180 0.225 0.137

0.05 0.2
y 0.171 0.239 0.184 0.038
Phosphorescent x 0.310 0.310 0.420 0.340

Yellow-white y 0.340 0.480 0.480 0.370 0.65 -
contrast
White x 0.350 0.295 0.285 0.340

0.75 -
y 0.360 0.305 0.315 0.370
Black x 0.385 0.300 0.260 0.345

- 0.03
y 0.355 0.270 0.310 0.395

MS 2558:2014
Table 9. Colour regions: chromaticity coordinates and luminance for powered

internally illuminated safety sign colours
Corner points of colour region Integral light

source on, no
CIE 2° standard colorimetric observer other external
Colour region illumination
Luminance
1 2 3 4 2
(cd/m )
Red x 0.705 0.592 0.574 0.663 ≥2

y 0.295 0.291 0.351 0.337
Yellow x 0.475 0.538 0.470 0.427 ≥2

y 0.525 0.462 0.424 0.472
Green x 0.201 0.285 0.170 0.026 ≥2

y 0.776 0.441 0.364 0.399
Blue x 0.078 0.180 0.225 0.137 ≥2

y 0.171 0.239 0.184 0.038
Green-white x 0.265 0.240 0.290 0.310 ≥ 10

y 0.310 0.380 0.410 0.350
White x 0.290 0.265 0.370 0.460 ≥ 10

y 0.260 0.310 0.405 0.425
Black x 0.385 0.300 0.260 0.345 a
y 0.355 0,270 0.310 0.395
a
Black as contrast colour or colour of the symbol is not translucent.
Table 10. Luminance contrast for powered internally illuminated safety signs
Safety colour Red Yellow Blue Green
Contrast colour White Black White White

a
Luminance 5 < k < 15 5 < k < 15 5 < k < 15
contrast
a
Black as contrast colour or colour of the symbol is not translucent.

MS 2558:2014
Figure 32. Object colours of ordinary materials, phosphorescent materials and

unpowered internally illuminated safety signs under external illumination -
Chromaticity boundaries for red, yellow, green, blue, phosphorescent yellow-white
contrast, white and black
Consideration of defective colour vision is given in Annex E.

MS 2558:2014
Figure 33. Object colours of powered internally illuminated safety signs - Chromaticity
boundaries for red, yellow, green, blue, green-white, white and black
Note that the colours of the lines giving the chromaticity boundaries in Figures 32 and 33 are
arbitrary and only give an indication of the associated colour.

MS 2558:2014
6.8.4 Phosphorescent materials
Phosphorescent materials can be of some value if used for signs which need to be seen in
the dark, typically under emergency conditions. Their light output is low, and they will only be
useful if they have recently been irradiated by normal lighting. The minimum luminance of
safety sign classified as phosphorescent in accordance to the four sub-classification is given
in Table 11.
Table 11. Luminance decay characteristics of Phosphorescent materials
Minimum luminance
Units are in Milli candela per square meter (mcd/m2)
Sub-
classification
At decay time At decay time At decay time At decay time
2 min 10 min 30 min 60 min
Class A 108 23 7 3
Class B 210 50 15 7
Class C 690 140 45 20
Class D 1110 260 85 35
7 Installation and maintenance of signs

7.1 Erection and removal
Signs other than those painted directly on existing surface, shall be erected so that they do
not create a hazard. Examples of signs erected hazardously are those projecting into
passageways at such heights or locations that person, vehicles or mobile plant may strike
them.
All signs should be removed immediately when the information is no longer relevant. This
practice is especially important for signs warning of specific temporary hazards. When the
hazard ceases to exist, the hazard sign should be removed promptly. For example signs
giving warning of person working above should be removed when the overhead job is
completed. Failure to observe this practice may induce disrespect for all signs.
7.2 Sign Location
7.2.1 Visibility
Signs should be located where the messages are legible and so that they attract the attention
of, and are clearly visible to all concerned.
Visibility will be enhanced if a contrast exists between the predominant colour of the sign and
that of its immediate surroundings. E.g. a green sign which of necessity that has to be placed
on a green wall will be rendered more distinct if it has a white surround.

MS 2558:2014
7.2.2 Sitting of signs
Signs should be mounted as close as practicable to the observer’s line of sight in the vertical
plane. For standing adults this will be approximately 5 degrees up or down from a point 1 500
mm above ground or floor level in front of the observer. Signs which are free standing or
mounted overhead shall be placed so that they are not a hazard to pedestrians.
7.2.3 Regulatory and hazard signs
Regulatory and hazard signs should be so sited in relation to a particular hazard as to allow a
person ample time after first viewing the sign to heed the warning. This distance will vary, e.g.
signs warning against the touching of switches or other electrical equipment should be placed
close to the equipment, whereas signs used in plant yards or on construction work should be
placed sufficiently in advance of the hazard to permit the warning to be perceived before the
hazard is reached.
7.2.4 Signs on moveable objects
Signs should not be placed on moveable objects such as doors, windows or racks where a
change in position would void the purpose of the sign or cause it to be out of sight. This does
not apply to signs intended to be portable or moveable.
7.2.5 Illumination of signs
External or internal illumination of signs should be considered where the general lighting,
either natural or artificial, does not provide for adequate visibility of signs.
In all cases, glare from lighting should be avoided. Special attention should also be given to
signs subject to illumination from certain artificial light sources such as sodium vapour lamps,
which cause changes in the perception of colours.
7.2.6 Number of signs
Care should be taken when considering the placing of several signs close together. The result
may be that there is so much information in one place that little or none is absorbed, or the
visual effect may be so confusing as to make it difficult to distinguish individual message.
7.3 Sign maintenance
For maximum effectiveness, the responsible person should ensure that signs are maintained
in good condition, kept clean and well illuminated. Signs should be regularly inspected,
replaced or upgraded accordingly.
8 Accident prevention tags

8.1 General description
An accident prevention tag is a miniature sign on card, paper, pasteboard or similar

temporary or semi-permanent material, which can be attached to plant, equipment, control
device or other objects for the purpose of imposing a regulatory requirement, or for advising
or informing users about some safety aspects of the item.

MS 2558:2014
8.2 Design of tags
Any form of sign permitted in this standard may be miniaturised, and made as an accident
prevention tag. However, where message of a critical nature are to be conveyed, a stand-
alone safety sign is preferred if a suitable standard sign exist. If text is to be used for a critical
hazard message, it will generally be in the form of a DANGER sign.
A tag shall have minimum dimensions of 80 mm x 150 mm exclusive of any additional area
required to tie or fix the tag to the plant or other item. The sign shall occupy as much of this
area as practicable. Sample of tags are shown in Figure 34.
Figure 34. Sample of tags

MS 2558:2014
Annex A
(informative)
Categories and layout of signs
Reference No.
E007
Referent
Evacuation assembly point
Function
To indicate the location of a safe
assembly point following evacuation
Image content
Four half-human figures in a group,
four arrows coming from the corners
pointing to them
Hazard
Not being able to locate a safe assembly point following evacuation
Human behaviour that is intended to be caused after understanding the safety sign’s
meaning
Being aware of the evacuation assembly point which is provided to enable people to be
accounted for following the evacuation of a building or premises
Figure A.1. Description and application of referent for signs indicating an evacuation
route, the location of safety equipment or a safety facility, or safety action (sample safe
condition signs) (Category E)

MS 2558:2014
Reference No.
F001
Referent
Fire extinguisher
Function
To indicate the location of a fire
extinguisher
Image content
Fire extinguisher (profile) with label,
flame determinant
Hazard
Not being able to locate a fire extinguisher
meaning
Being aware of the location of a fire extinguisher
Figure A.2. Description and application of referent for sample fire equipment signs
(Category F)

MS 2558:2014
Reference No.
M003
Referent
Wear ear protection
Function
To signify that ear protection is
required to be worn
Image content
Human head (front view) wearing ear
protection
Hazard
Noise
meaning
Wearing ear protection
Figure A.3. Description and application of referent for sample mandatory action signs
(Category M)

MS 2558:2014
Reference No.
P004
Referent
No thoroughfare
Function
To prohibit the use of a
thoroughfare by pedestrians
Image content
Human figure walking (left hand)
Hazard
Collision with vehicles or machinery
meaning
Not using the thoroughfare
Figure A.4. Description and application of referent for sample prohibition signs
(Category P)

MS 2558:2014
Reference No.
W002
Referent
Warning; Explosive material
Function
To warn of explosive materials
Image content
Part of filled circle with radiating
triangular lines and irregular shapes
Hazard
Explosion
meaning
Taking care when in the vicinity of or handling explosive materials
Figure A.5. Description and application of referent for sample warning sign
(Category W)

MS 2558:2014
Annex B
(informative)
Additional design guidelines
B.1 General
The general symbol should have only as much detail as is required to communicate the
intended message. The graphical symbol should:
a) be simple in order to facilitate comprehension and reproduction;

b) be readily associated with its intended meaning;
c) be based on objects, concepts, activities, etc., or a combination of these, which are

familiar to the target group;
d) be easily distinguishable from other graphical symbols; and
e) contain only those details that contribute to understand.
When creating a graphical symbol for use in a mandatory action sign, a warning sign, a safe
condition sign or a fire safety sign, the designer should keep in mind the possible that the
same graphical symbol may need to be used in a prohibition sign to indicate a prohibited
action. When a graphical symbol is used in a prohibition sign, the diagonal bar obscures a
portion of the graphical symbols. Thus, if it is anticipated that the graphical symbol will be
used in a prohibition sign, the designer should make sure critical elements necessary for
understanding the safety sign, i.e. the critical details will not be located in the area that will be
obscured by the prohibition sign’s diagonal bar.
B.2 Graphical symbol image content

The image content of a graphical symbol consists of the graphical elements the symbol uses
to convey the intended message. All graphical symbols elements are abstract to a greater or
lesser degree; they all depict an idea, object or a meaning in an abstract manner. Yet some
symbols are more easily comprehended because the image content is easily recognised and
this is typically accomplished by the graphical symbol being more representational than
abstract in its form. If possible, the graphical symbols image content should be more
representational in nature. This can be accomplished by designing graphical symbols that
depict specific safety information. Hazards should be depicted specifically, especially when
the nature or location of the hazard is not readily apparent, such as a “hidden” hazard inside
the machine.
If human interaction is a part of the message, it is preferable to depict the human element in
the graphical symbol. For instance, fire safety sign for “Fire alarm call point” in Figure B.1 has
replaced the older symbol in Figure B.2. The graphical symbols is much easier to
comprehend and it is active in its depiction (i.e. the human hand is shown approaching the
alarm button).

MS 2558:2014
Filled areas could improve the legibility of the graphical symbols in Figure 15, particularly for
longer viewing distances.
Outline forms could be appropriate for distinguishing and recognition of elements within
graphical symbols.
For personal protection equipment (PPE) worn on the human head, the equipment should be
shown as a filled image with the head in outline. For PPE worn on the body, if a human figure
or torso is included in the graphical symbol, the equipment should be shown as a filled image
with the human figure or torso in outline.
Figure B.1. Fire alarm call point (F005)
Figure B.2. Fire alarm call point (withdrawn)

MS 2558:2014
B.3 Representation of the human figure and human elements

B.3.1 General
The human figure or body element is frequently the main component in a graphical and
should be depicted in a simple, consistent and believable form.
Interpretation should be instantaneous and not require the viewer to study the symbols to
determine what part of the body is involved with the hazard. When designing safety signs that
incorporate the human figure or human elements, consider the position of these elements in
relating to the following:
a) the nature of the hazard;

b) the direction from which the hazard comes or the orientation of the hazards;
c) movements or positions resulting from involvement with the hazards;
d) the type of injury caused by the hazard; and
e) movements of position involved in an action or in the operation of a product.
Blood should not be represented.
B.3.2 Drawing the human figure using the unit system
The use of the simple human figure template shown in Figures B.3, B.5 and B.6 should be
considered for purposes of proportioning elements of the humans figure and for depiction of
different actions or movements shown in Figures B.4 and B.7.
The symbol of the human figure is based on a grid system of uniform sized squares, or units.
The full human figure is 12 units tall, 2 units wide at the trunk and has a circular head 1.75
units in diameter. The legs are 1 unit wide; the arms are 7/8 of a unit wide. The precise unit
measurements for drawing the figure are shown in Figures B.3 and B.6. The hands and feet
may end in semicircles as shown in the template or may be squared or slightly rounded and
slanted. The pivot points are shown for elbow, shoulder, hip and knee joints. Connection
points for hands and feet are also shown at the ends of limbs. The pivot and connection
points are provided in the template to assist the designer to manipulate the figure into a
position consistent with the desired posture and for the option of adding feet and/or hands to
the full body illustration in Figures B.10 and B.16.
B.3.3 Human figure animation
By using pivot points in Figures B.3 and B.6 action or movement of the figure can be
depicted. The unit proportions remain the same, except in situations where the overlapping of
limbs causes a visual foreshortening of the limb. When foreshortening occurs, it is
compensated for by adding 0.5 unit to the limb in Figure B.4.

MS 2558:2014
Figure B.3. Full human body design template, front view
Figure B.4. Examples of how the human figure can be animated using pivot points

MS 2558:2014
Figure B.5. Full human body design template, standing, front view
Figure B.6. Full human body design template for animation, profile view

MS 2558:2014
Figure B.7. Examples of how the human figure can be animated using pivot points,
profile view
B.3.4 Drawing the human head
The health of the working population can be endangered by hazards to the head. Such heads
can arise in various ways. Therefore, the human head and face is a necessary part of a
number of safety signs, especially mandatory actions signs indicating the use of personal
protection equipment (PPE).
For all safety sign needing a head as part of the graphical symbols, one type of head should
be used. The global versions of the outlined head that is to be used for safety signs should
not, in order to be widely accepted in an ethically diversified world, carry any ethnic specifics.
Figures B.8 and B.9 show the two versions (profile view and front view) of the outlined head
that should be used to create graphical symbols for use in safety signs indicating a head-
related hazard. The profile view should be preferred.
Figure B.8. Profile of human head
Figure B.9. Front view of human head

MS 2558:2014
B.3.5 Drawing the human hand and fingers
The complexity of the human hand and the many posibble finger movements, make hands
one of the most difficult symbol elements to depict. A simplified shape and form for depicting
the human hand and fingers is presented in Figure B.10. In the full palm view, the fingers and
thumb should not be moved to other positions (i.e. they should not be spread). In other full
hand views, finger may be spread.
Key
1 pivot point for index finger 5 pivot point for thumb
2 pivot point for middle finger 6 pivot point for hand
3 pivot point for ring finger 7 pivot/connection point for hand
4 pivot point for small finger
Figure B.10. Hands
B.3.6 Human hand profiles
When hazards involve the hands or arms, hands should be addded to the figure to increase
recognition of the limb elements. Basic hand positions are shown in Figure B.11.
The selection of position should be based on which position is judged to best dramatise the
involvement with the hazard. For design consistency, hands should be added to both arms
(when both arms are shown), even when only one arm is involved with the hazard.

MS 2558:2014
Figure B.11. Hand positions
To convey a feeling of depth, hand profiles should be used.
NOTE . When the hand is shown in perspective, the positioning of the fingers can create a three-
dimensional impression.
The basic hand profile may need to be modified to best depict the interaction of the hand and
fingers with different types of equipment. The interaction may involve one of the following:
a) fingers caught in roller in Figure B.12;
b) hand and fingers struck by a sharp object in Figure B.13;
c) fingers caught between gears in Figure B.14; and
d) fingers touching a surface in Figure B.15.
NOTE. The fingers are not tapered and the finger tips are rounded. The profile view uses only three
fingers plus the thumb.
Figure B.12. Example 1 for hand profile

MS 2558:2014

B.3.7 Drawing the human foot
To depict just the lower leg or foot, the stylised foot shown in Figure B.16 may be used. It can
be used facing either left or right. For depiction of some hazards which involve the feet or
lower limbs, depiction of the full human figure with feet added can increase recognition of the
limb element that is involved with the hazards shown in Figure B.17. For such graphical
symbols, the feet shown in Figure B.16 may be added to the leg end connection points of the
human figure template shown in Figures B.3 and B.4.

MS 2558:2014
Key
a Foot connection points
Figure B.16. Stylised foot with connection points
Figure B.17. Example of dynamic depiction of a hazard using the human body template
with stylised feet

MS 2558:2014
B.4 Representation of water in water safety sign

Water is one of the main elements of many graphical symbols used in water safety signs.
Where depicting views of activities or equipment on or above the surface of the water, the
water should be represented by two wavy lines. Where depicting views of activities or
equipment below the surface of the water, the water should be represented by a single wavy
lines. Where depicting the depth of the water, the water should be represented by multiple
wavy lines.
B.5 Perceptual quality

To check the legibility of a new graphical symbol, the designer can use the test methods of
ISO 9186-2 to evaluate the size and shape of the graphical elements for their identifiability
and to determine the factor of distance for application of the safety sign given in 6.7. Initial
checking of the legibility of details at the design stage can involve viewing the template size
reduced to 25 % (see Figures 25 and 26).
B.6 Comprehensibility
To check the comprehensive of a safety sign, the designer should use test methods of ISO
9186-1 to evaluate how well the safety sign communicates its intended meaning. The safety
sign should then be modified, if necessary.
Where the normal size of application of the safety sign is less than 70 mm, the safety sign
should be tested at the intended size of application.

MS 2558:2014
Annex C
(informative)
Examples of safety colours and contrast colours for object of ordinary

materials
Colour regions for ordinary materials are specified in Table 8 by chromaticity coordinates and
a luminance factor. However, manufacturers of safety sign might need guidelines concerning
what the respective colour look like. For this purpose, and not for colour matching, examples
of colour swatches within the colour region are given in Table C.1. Some of the colour
references are specified in various national standards for safety signs.
The colour references in Table C.1 are available as colour swatches. The order of listing
within the columns of the table is arbitrary and the rows of the table do not represent any
closeness of colour matching.
Table C.1. Ordinary materials: Examples for object colours that fall within the specified
chromaticity coordinates and luminance factor for the colour region
Colour RAL Natural Colour

Munsell BS 5252
swatch (DIN 6164) Systems (NCS)
Red RAL 3001 7.5R4/14Gb 04E56 S 1080-R GL
(7.5: 8.5: 3)
RAL 3001/840-HR 7.5R4/15Ga 04E53 S 1085-Y90R
(7.6: 7.3: 3.2)
RAL EFFECT 450-6 7.5R4/16G S 1080-Y90R GL
(7.6: 8.1: 2.0)
S 1580-Y90R
S 1580-Y90R GL
S 2570-Y90R GL
Yellow RAL 1003 2.5Y8/12 G 08E53 S 0585-Y20R GL
(2.5: 6.5: 1)
RAL 1003/840-HR 2.5Y8/14 Ga 08E51 S 1070-Y10R
(2.6: 6.2: 0.9)
RAL 1021/840-HR 2.5Y8/16 G 10E55 S 0580-Y10R
(1.9: 6.6: 0.9)
RAL EFFECT 290-6 5Y8/12 Gb 10E51 S 1080-Y10R GL
(2.7: 6.1: 0.8)
RAL EFFECT 270-5 5Y8/14 G S 1070-Y10R GL
(2.0: 6.5: 0.9)
10YR8/12G S 1080-Y10R
10YR8/14G S 0580-Y10R GL
S 0570-Y10R GL
S 0570-Y10R
S 1080-Y
S 1080-Y GL
S 1070-Y
S 0580-Y GL
S 1070-Y GL
S 0580-Y

MS 2558:2014
Table C.1. Ordinary materials: Examples for object colours that fall within the specified
chromaticity coordinates and luminance factor for the colour region (continued)
Colour RAL Natural Colour

Munsell BS 5252
swatch (DIN 6164) Systems (NCS)
Green RAL 6032 10G4/10 Ga 14E56 S 1565-G GL
(21.7: 6.5: 4) S 1656-G
7.5G4/9 Gb S 2060-G-GL
RAL 6032/840-HR S 3060-G GL
(21.7: 5.9: 4.0) 2.5G4/10G S 2060-G
RAL EFFECT 2200-5
(21.7: 5.9: 4.1)
5G4/10 G S 2565-G GL
5G4/8 G S 2565-G
7.5G4/10 G S 3060-G
S 3060-B90G GL
Blue RAL 5005 2.5PB3.5/10Ga,b 20E56 S 2065-R90B
(16.7: 7.2: 3.8)
RAL 5005/840-HR 10B3/8 G 20E53 S 3060-R90B
(16.7: 6.3: 3.8)
RAL 5017/840-HR 2.5PB3/8 G S 3560-R90B
(17.1: 6.3: 3.6)
RAL EFFECT 640-5 2.5PB3/10 G S 3065-R90B GL
(16.7: 6.2: 3.7)
5PB4/12 G S 3065-R90B
5PB3/10 G S 4050-R80B
S 3060-R80B
S 2565-R80B
White RAL 9003 N9.5 Ga 00E55 S 0500-N
(N: 0: 0.5)
RAL 9003/840-HR N9.0 Gb
(N: 0.1: 0.4)
RAL EFFECT 120-1
(N: 0.1: 0.4)
Black RAL 9004 N1 Ga 00E55 S 9000-N

(N: 0: 9)
b
RAL 9004/840-HR N1.5 G
(N: 0.1: 8.2)
RAL EFFECT 790-5
(N: 0.4: 8.6)
NOTE. Munsell and NCS colour swatches can have either a glossy of matte finish. Where the finish
is glossy, Munsell uses the label “G”, NCS uses the label “GL”.
a
JIS Z 9103, Safety colours - General specification.
b
ANSI Z 535.1, Safety color code.

MS 2558:2014
To identify a colour reference in another colour classification system, it should meet the
specification in Table 8.
Colours within the colour region and further from the colour region boundaries are likely to
take longer to deteriorate and therefore remain within the colour region limits for longer. The
rate of colour deterioration may also depend upon the nature of the pigment used in the
finished safety sign. Safety sign material should be tested for colour deterioration.

MS 2558:2014
Annex D
(informative)
Guidance on photometric relationships between and within safety and

contrast colours of graphical symbols
D.1 General
The recommendations given in this annex are applicable to safety that are externally
illuminated and to internally illuminated signs that have luminous surfaces. The
recommendations do not cover signs utilising point light sources to depict graphical symbols.
The colours appearance of safety colours and the contrast colour white can be affected by
chromatic adaptation. This is a complex issue for which the colour-rendering index for a lamp
is sometimes used. In order to identify safety colours, the minimum value for the colour,
rendering index for a lamp should be greater than 40. The luminaries providing external
lighting should not substantially subtract from this.
Guidance on the relationships of the dimensions of the safety sign and distance of
observation is given in 6.7.
D.2 Externally illuminated signs

Factors, other than the external illumination, which affect the legibility of external illuminated
signs, include the dimensions of the graphical symbol elements and the contrast, C, between
the safety colours and contrast colours. The contrast, C should be large, preferably greater
than 0.8.
Generally, the reflectance of the safety sign elements themselves should be uniform.
Information on the distance factors for externally illuminated safety signs under different levels
of illumination are given in 6.7. Distance factors are given for people with normal vision and
for people with impaired vision, as well as the effect of observing the safety sign from different
angles.
D.3 Internally illuminated signs

Factors that affect the legibility of internally illuminated signs include the luminance of the
safety colours and contrast colours, luminance contrast and uniformity of luminance within the
colour.
The limits for luminance contrast and uniformity of the luminance measured as a ratio of
minimum to maximum luminance within the safety colour and within the contrast colour are
given in 6.8.3 and Table 10.

MS 2558:2014
For legibility, the luminance of the safety sign should be appropriate to the lit environment.
The minimum luminance values in Table 9 are related to emergency lighting condition and the
minimum specifications for emergency safety signs. In normal lighting conditions, the
luminance values of the safety sign may need to be increased for legibility and conspicuity in
a brighter lit environment.
Information on distance factors for internally illuminated safety signs of different levels of
luminance are given in 6.7. Distance factors are given for people with normal vision and for
people with impaired vision, as well as the effect of observing the safety sign from different
angles.

MS 2558:2014
Annex E
(informative)
Consideration of defective colour vision
E.1 Types of defective colour vision

Colour deficiency due to the lack of one pigment is called “dichromatism”; this is divided into
three types: protan, deutan and tritan. Protan is a lack of red cone pigment, deutan is a lack of
green cone pigment and tritan is a lack of blue cone pigments. An observer who is dichromat
has two of these three colour deficiencies.
If there is an abnormality in any one of three cone pigments, this abnormality is called
“anomalous trichromatism”. The degree of colour deficiency is just the same as that of
dichromatism, or of various degrees to the normal.
The frequency of occurrence of colour deficiency is about 7 % to 8 % for European males,

and about 4 % to 5 % for Asian males; most of these colour deficiency are classed as deutan.
For females, in both Europe and Asia, the occurrence is less than 1%.
Acquired colour vision deficiency encompasses all the colour deficiencies except those with
generic carries. The difference between congenital and acquired deficiencies may be
explained as follows. The person with acquired colour vision deficiency used to have normal
colour vision, but this has been affected by disease. In other words, the acquired colour vision
deficiency may be classed as a secondary colour deficiency as opposed to the congenital. In
a broad sense, changing colour perception due to aging is also classed as acquired even
though it is not due to any disease.
The major difference between the acquired and the congenital cases may be explained as
follows.
a) In the acquired case, the level of colour deficiency varies by the degree of the diseases or
any other disorder, or both. In the congenital case, however, the level of colour deficiency
will not change at all throughout the person’s lifetime.
b) In the congenital case, the colour deficiency is always binocular, but in the acquired case,
it may be either monocular or binocular.
c) In the congenital case, the colour deficiency does not accompany other visual defects. In
the acquired case, however, it is always accompanied by one or more visual defects.
d) In the acquired case, the person/observer is conscious of the colour abnormality, but not
so in the congenital.
e) In the congenital case, tritan (abnormality in blue, yellow) is extremely rare; it is not as
rare in the acquired case.
While a colour-deficient observer can be expected to have difficulty perceiving the safety
colour and determining its intended meaning, the degree to which confusion can occur is
more likely to be based upon the observer’s experience and degree of colour deficiency.

MS 2558:2014
E.2 Effect on colour regions for safety signs

The overall shape of the CIE chromaticity diagram, as given in Figure 32, is based on the CIE
2° standard colorimetric observer with normal colour vision or trichromat.
In considering the effect of dichromatism, each of the three colours, red, green and blue, can
be mixed on one of the confused lines on the CIE chromaticity diagram. Straight lines of
confusion, diverging from the copunctal points for protanopic vision, deuteranopic vision and
tritanopic vision, cross the CIE choromaticity diagram. It means, for each dichromat, that all
point on each confusion line is recognised as the same colour.
The boundaries to the red and green colour regions given in Figure 32 are based upon
avoiding confusion between vivid green and vivid red.
The effects of the various colour deficiencies have been considered in the determination of
colour regions for safety signs, in particular where the safety colours green, yellow and red
are present. Yellowish green is avoided. In addition to the colours, “brightness contrast
sensitivity” is applied in terms of requiring high contrast or high luminance contrast between
colours as appropriate to the type of safety signs.

MS 2558:2014
Annex F
(informative)
Object colour of different types of safety sign and materials
F.1 Externally illuminated
F.1.1 Ordinary materials
The object colour of an ordinary material is produced as a result of the selective absorption of
light incident upon the surface. The colour perceived is dependent on a complexity of factors,
which includes the spectral distribution of the incident light, the spectral radiance factor of the
surface, and several visual parameters such as the state of adaptation of the observer and
the colour of the surrounding areas. However, in order to define colour for practical purposes,
it is sufficient to use chromaticity coordinates of the CIE 2° standard colorimetric observer and
the luminance factor. These quantities are dependent only on the spectral distribution of the
incident light and the spectral luminance factor of the surface. For the purposes of this part,
colorimetric values are calculated under CIE standard illuminant D65.
In considering the ordinancy colour of a surface, it is usual to assume that the surface is a
uniformly reflecting diffuser. The light reflected from a glossy or semi-glossy surface includes
more specular reflection which should usually be excluded when defining the colour, and the
geometry of measurement specified should be one that will exclude such reflection. The 45°
a:0° and 0°:45°a geometries represent the reciprocity of light and the annular illumination is
chosen since the reflected light form the surface of many materials is not uniformly diffuse.
The reference geometry is 45°a:0°.
F.1.2 Phosphorescent materials under external illumination
These materials are pigments that exhibit phosphorescent as the result of absorption of
energy from the shorter wavelength regions of the visible spectrum and/or in the ultraviolet
region, and store energy, some of which is re-radiated at longer wavelengths, producing
emissions in the visible region over a period of time.
The colour on excitation by an external light source is the colour of the phosphorescent
pigments resulting from reflection of the excitation radiation and the broadband radiation
emitted by the phosphorescent pigments or product superimposed on it. Usually, the reflected
light is much stronger than the emitted light.
The object colour is dependent on a number of factors, which includes characteristics of the
phosphorescent materials and the spectral composition, illuminance level and duration of the
excitation source. The test involves measurement at a saturation excitation condition. The test
method involves using light from a D65 daylight simulator florescent lamp at 45° to the normal
of the surface of the sign to produce 200 lx (± 2 %) at the surface of the phosphorescent
materials for 20 min. Measurement is by a tristimulus colorimeter or spectral colorimeter
viewing normal to the phosphorescent surface. By measuring a white reflectance standard
placed at the same measurement position, the luminance factor can be determined.

MS 2558:2014
F.1.3 Unpowered internally illuminated safety sign under external illumination
When a non-maintained internally illuminated safety sign is externally illuminated and is in an

operational mode with the integral light source, unpowered external illuminated is reflected
from any surface. The test method is the same as that for ordinary materials except for the
placement of black material behind any translucent sign face.
F.2 Powered internally illuminated safety signs

This category includes maintained internally illuminated and non-maintained internally
illuminated safety signs in an operational mode with the integral light source powered.
There is a wide variety of construction of signs and types and technologies of light sources.
The integral light source may illuminate translucent material from behind, from an edge, or be
a light-emitting material such as electroluminescent or LED sheets. Surfaces may exhibit
properties partially of transmission/emission and partially of diffuse reflection.
Measurement is by a tristimulus colorimeter of spectral colorimeter viewing normal to the sign

face surface. The chromatic coordinates of the CIE 2º standard colorimeter observer and the
luminance are used to specify colour. A luminance instrument, again viewing normal to the
sign face surface, can be used to determine the luminance contrasts, k, between the contrast
colour and the safety colour, and the variation of the luminances within each colour.
F.3 Emission colour of phosphorescent material

After phosphorescent material has been exposed to light and all lights are switched off, the
phosphorescent material emits visible radiation over a period of time whilst decreasing in
luminance. Measurement requires no other light sources to be present.
The emission colour is dependent upon a number of factors, which include characteristics of
the phosphorescent material and the spectral composition, illuminance level and duration of
the excitation source.
This part specifies excitation of the phosphorescent materials by light from a D65 daylight
simulator fluorescent lamp producing 200 lx (± 2 %) measured on the surface/plane of the
sign at the position of the test patch for excitation duration of 20 min.
At the moment of switching off the excitation light source, the luminance of phosphorescent
materials can be around the lower level of photopic vision (several cd/m 2) for the normal eye.
In the next time period of luminance decay, the luminance is within the level of mesopic vision
(between several cd/m2 to some hundredths of cd/m 2) of the normal eye. Following further
decrease of luminance with time, the luminance is within the level of scotopic vision for the
normal eye. Colour recognition becomes more difficult in the mesopic vision range and is non-
existent in the scotopic range. Throughout the luminance range during the luminance decay,
identification of safety sign elements and guidance lines comprising phosphorescent materials
is by their contrast to a dark background.

MS 2558:2014
The assessment of the emission colour of the phosphorescent material is made by measuring
chromaticity coordinates and luminance at two minutes of luminance decay after a high level
of excitation. The precision of the measurement allows the colour to be assigned to within a
relatively large chromaticity boundary of the CIE diagram.
The assignment is for the purposes of naming and labelling. Colour recognition is extremely
poor at extended decay times.
The luminance performance of phosphorescent materials is covered by ISO 16069 and ISO
17398. Table 11 classifies phosphorescent materials A, B, C or D according to the minimum
luminance values at specified times during the luminance decay according to a specified test
method.

MS 2558:2014
Annex G
(normative)
Classification of emission colour of phosphorescent material
G.1 Classification of emission colour

When the phosphorescent material is tested, the chromaticity coordinates of the emission
colour measured shall fall within the relevant chromaticity boundary specified in Table G.1, as
illustrated in Figure G.1. The luminance at 2 min ± 10 s decay time shall be as specified in
Table G.1.
The emission colour shall be classified by letter according to key to Figure G.1.
Table G.1. Chromaticity coordinates and luminance of phosphorescent emission

colours (no external illumination)
Chromaticity coordinates of corner points of chromaticity

Luminance at
region
2 min decay
Colour region time
CIE 2º standard colorimetric observer
(mcd/m2)
1 2 3
Red x 0.630 0.313 0.735 ≥ 300

y 0.370 0.329 0.265
Yellow x 0.472 0.313 0.575 ≥ 300

y 0.528 0.329 0.425
Green x 0.008 0.313 0.074 ≥ 300

y 0.523 0.329 0.834
Blue x 0.174 0.313 0.050 ≥ 300

y 0.005 0.329 0.274
Yellow-green x 0.074 0.313 0.472 ≥ 500

contrast
y 0.834 0.329 0.528

MS 2558:2014
NOTE. The colours of the lines giving the chromaticity boundaries in Figure G.1 are arbitrary and only
give an indication of the associated colour.
Figure G.1. Chromaticity boundaries for classification of emission colours of

phosphorescent materials

MS 2558:2014
Bibliography
[1] MS 1216, Specification retroreflective sign face materials
[2] MS 980:1985, Specification for safety signs and colours: Colour and design
[3] MS 981:1985, Specification for safety signs and colours: Colorimetric and photometric
properties of materials
[4] ISO 3864-1, Graphical symbols - Safety colours and safety signs - Part 1: Design
principles for safety signs in workplaces and public area
[5] ISO 3864-3, Graphical symbols - Safety colours and safety signs - Part 3: Design
principles for graphical symbols for use in safety signs
[6] ISO 3864-4, Graphical symbols - Safety colours and safety sign - Part 4: Colorimetric
and photometric properties of safety sign materials
[7] ISO 7010, Graphical symbols - Safety colours and safety signs - Registered safety
signs
[8] ISO 17724, Graphical symbols - Vocabulary
[9] ISO 30061, Emergency lighting
[10] ANSI Z 535.1, Safety color code
[11] AS 1319, Safety signs for the occupational environment
[12] BS 5252, Framework for colour co-ordination for building purposes
[13] DIN 6164, DIN colour chart
[14] JIS Z 9103, Safety colours - General specification

Acknowledgments
Members of Technical Committee on Safe System of Work and Practices in

Occupational Setting
Dr Syed Abdul Hamid Syed Hassan (Chairman) Department of Occupational Safety and
Health Malaysia (Policy and Research
Division)
Ms Norsalnita Md Noor/ Department of Occupational Safety and
Ms Nur Fahkis Anuar/ Health Malaysia
Mr Nik Mohd Aiman Nik Mohd Azami (Secretary)
Mr Muhammad Shaifudin Omar Department of Agriculture Malaysia
Ms Shaliza Ramli Department of Chemistry, Malaysia

Ir Muhamad Khosim Haji Ikhsan Department of Irrigation and Drainage
Malaysia
Ms Ramuna Mohamed Department of Occupational Safety and
Division)
Dr Marzuna Md Yunus Department of Veterinary Services
Malaysia
Mr Ahmad Nasrul Sazli Nasir Forestry Department Peninsular Malaysia
Ir Mohd Jamal Sulaiman Jabatan Kerja Raya Malaysia
Haji Anis Fahmy Pauzi Malaysian Employers Federation
Mr Matdiah Mohammad Malaysian Trade Union Congress
Dr Priya Ragunanth Ministry of Health Malaysia
Major (Rtd) Hanif Maidin National Institute of Occupational Safety
and Health
Dr Mohd Rafee Baharuddin/ NIOSH Certification Sdn Bhd
Mr Hamdan Haji Ramat/
Mr Samsul Zahrin Zainuddin
Ms Norafiza Saim SIRIM Berhad (Group Business
Assurance Department)
Ms Salwa Denan SIRIM Berhad (Standards Research and
Management Centre)
Mr Harun Bakar Social Security Organisation
Ir Hussein Rahmat The Institution of Engineers, Malaysia
Haji Azman Abdul Aziz The Malayan Agricultural Producers
Association
Prof Dr Mansor Ahmad Universiti Putra Malaysia
 STANDARDS MALAYSIA 2014 - All rights reserved

Acknowledgments (continued)
Members of Working Group on Safety and Health Signage Used in the Workplaces
Prof Dr Mansor Ahmad (Chairman) Universiti Putra Malaysia

Ms Norsalnita Md Noor/ Department of Occupational Safety and
Ms Nur Fahkis Anuar/ Health Malaysia
Mr Nik Mohd Aiman Nik Mohd Azami (Secretary)
Ms Ramuna Mohamed Department of Occupational Safety and
Division)
Hajjah Maimunah Haji Khalid GISM Sdn Bhd
Mr Khairul Jamil Jabatan Bomba dan Penyelamat Malaysia

Ir Razhiah Wahab Jabatan Kerja Raya Malaysia
Mr Samsul Jaharudin Kemakmuran 2000 Sdn Bhd
Ms Emilyn Chan/ Signlab Sdn Bhd
Mr Alex Tan
 STANDARDS MALAYSIA 2014 - All rights reserved

© Copyright 2014
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or utilised in any
form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying and
microfilm, without permission in writing from the Department of Standards Malaysia.


MS 2558 - 2014 - Tudm - 15092017 PDF

Enviado por

Dados do documento

Título original

Direitos autorais

Formatos disponíveis

Compartilhar este documento

Compartilhar ou incorporar documento

Opções de compartilhamento

Você considera este documento útil?

Este conteúdo é inapropriado?

Direitos autorais:

Formatos disponíveis

MS 2558 - 2014 - Tudm - 15092017 PDF

Enviado por

Direitos autorais:

Formatos disponíveis

MALAYSIAN MS 2558:2014

Safety and health signage used in the

The Department of Standards Malaysia (STANDARDS MALAYSIA) is the national

The main function of STANDARDS MALAYSIA is to foster and promote standards,

For the purposes of Malaysian Standards, the following definitions apply:

Amendment: A process where a provision(s) of existing Malaysian Standard is altered. The

For further information on Malaysian Standards, please contact:

Department of Standards Malaysia OR SIRIM Berhad

Tel: 60 3 8318 0002 Tel: 60 3 5544 6000

Committee representation ............................................................................................. ii

2 Normative references ........................................................................................... 1

3 Terms and definitions........................................................................................... 2

4 General requirements .......................................................................................... 3

5 Categories and layout of signs ............................................................................. 4

6 Design of signs .................................................................................................... 6

7 Installation and maintenance of signs ................................................................... 46

8 Accident prevention tags ...................................................................................... 47

Annex A Categories and layout of signs ................................................................. 49

Annex B Additional design guidelines .................................................................... 54

Annex C Examples of safety colours and contrast colours for object of

Annex D Guidance on photometric relationships between and within safety

Annex E Consideration of defective colour vision ................................................... 70

Annex G Classification of emission colour of phosphorescent material ................... 75

 STANDARDS MALAYSIA 2014 - All rights reserved i

Business Council Sustainable Development Malaysia

Lloyd’s Register Technical Services Sdn Bhd

Department of Agriculture Malaysia

ii  STANDARDS MALAYSIA 2014 - All rights reserved

Licensed to Tentera Udara Diraja Malaysia use only;

Committee representation (continued)

Universiti Putra Malaysia

 STANDARDS MALAYSIA 2014 - All rights reserved iii

Major modifications in this revision are as follows:

a) to merge the common requirements of MS 980 and MS 981;

iv  STANDARDS MALAYSIA 2014 - All rights reserved

Licensed to Tentera Udara Diraja Malaysia use only;

Lack of standardisation may lead to confusion and the risk of accidents.

provides safety information.

 STANDARDS MALAYSIA 2014 - All rights reserved v

Safety and health signage used in the workplace - Specification

CIE 15, Colorimetry

 STANDARDS MALAYSIA 2014 - All rights reserved 1

3 Terms and definitions

3.2 combination sign

Graphical symbol used as a common element within a series of graphical symbols.

3.6 geometric shape

3.7 graphical symbol

Visually perceptible figure with a particular meaning used to transmit information

The message content of a sign in words (text) or symbols, or a combination of these.

3.9 multiple sign

2  STANDARDS MALAYSIA 2014 - All rights reserved

Licensed to Tentera Udara Diraja Malaysia use only;

3.10 responsible person

3.11 safety colour

Colour with special properties to which a safety meaning is attributed.

3.12 safety sign

3.13 safety symbol

Visually perceptible figure with a particular meaning used to transmit information

3.14 supplementary signs

4.1 Suitability for purpose

 STANDARDS MALAYSIA 2014 - All rights reserved 3

4.2 Accident prevention and awareness

4.2.2 Explanations of their functions and meaning should be included in employee