Prohibition Safety Sign FAQs

Where should this symbol be used?
The General Prohibition Symbol should be used when there is no specific ISO 7010 prohibition symbol available to clearly identify the forbidden action. It should always be displayed with a written message that explains exactly what must not be done.

What wording can be used?
The wording used with this symbol should be short, direct and easy to understand. It should clearly describe the prohibited action so that people do not have to guess what the sign means. Examples include “Do not place materials here”, “Do not operate without supervision” and “Do not block this access point”.

Summary
This symbol may be used in workplaces, public buildings, construction sites, factories, laboratories and other locations where an uncommon restriction needs to be communicated clearly. It should be positioned where it can be seen before a person reaches the hazard, restricted area or equipment. This helps ensure that the prohibition is understood and reduces the risk of unsafe or unauthorised behaviour.

What does this symbol mean?
This symbol indicates that smoking is prohibited in the area. It is used to show that cigarettes, cigars, pipes and similar smoking products must not be lit or used.

Where is it commonly displayed?
This symbol is often found in workplaces, public buildings, hospitals, schools, factories, transport facilities and other enclosed or controlled areas. It may also be used near flammable materials, fuel storage areas or equipment where smoking could create a serious fire or explosion risk.

How should the sign be positioned?
The sign should be placed at entrances and other clearly visible points before a person enters the non-smoking area. Additional signs may be installed throughout larger spaces to remind people that the restriction continues to apply.

Summary
The No Smoking Symbol provides a clear and widely recognised warning that smoking is not permitted. Correct placement helps protect people from second-hand smoke, reduces fire hazards and supports compliance with workplace and public-safety rules.

What does this symbol indicate?
The No Open Flame Symbol shows that naked flames and other unprotected ignition sources are forbidden. This includes matches, lighters, candles, burners and any activity that could produce a flame or spark.

When should it be displayed?
This sign is commonly used in areas where flammable gases, liquids, vapours or materials may be present. Typical locations include fuel-storage areas, laboratories, workshops, chemical-processing facilities, battery-charging stations and places where explosive atmospheres could develop.

Why is correct placement important?
The symbol should be positioned at entrances, access points and close to the relevant hazard so that people see the restriction before entering the area or carrying out work. In larger or higher-risk locations, additional signs may be needed to keep the prohibition clearly visible.

Summary
The No Open Flame Symbol gives a clear warning that flames and ignition sources must not be used nearby. Displaying it correctly helps reduce the risk of fire, explosion, injury and damage to equipment or property.

What restriction does this symbol show?
The No Thoroughfare Symbol means that people must not pass through or use the marked route. It is used to indicate that an area, doorway, passage or access point is closed to pedestrian traffic.

Where might this sign be found?
This symbol may be displayed at restricted corridors, staff-only entrances, maintenance areas, construction zones, warehouses, plant rooms and other locations where public or unauthorised access is not permitted. It can also be used where a route is unsafe, temporarily closed or reserved for specific personnel.

How should it be displayed?
The sign should be placed directly at the entrance or approach to the restricted route, where it can be seen before anyone attempts to continue. Where necessary, it may be supported by barriers or additional wording explaining who is authorised to enter.

Summary
The No Thoroughfare Symbol provides a clear instruction that the marked route must not be used as a passageway. Correct use helps control access, prevent people entering hazardous or secure areas and reduce the risk of accidents or disruption.

What does this symbol tell you?
The Not Drinking Water Symbol warns that the water from a particular tap, outlet or supply is not safe for human consumption. It must not be used for drinking, preparing food, making beverages or any other purpose where the water could be swallowed.

Where is it normally used?
This sign may appear near untreated water supplies, industrial wash points, irrigation systems, laboratory sinks, storage tanks, temporary site facilities and other outlets that do not provide potable water. It is especially important where a non-drinking supply could easily be mistaken for normal tap water.

What should people do when they see it?
Anyone using the area should avoid consuming the water and use an approved drinking-water source instead. The symbol should be fixed directly beside the relevant tap or outlet so there is no confusion about which supply the warning applies to.

Why is the sign important?
Displaying the Not Drinking Water Symbol helps prevent illness caused by contaminated, untreated or unsuitable water. Clear positioning allows people to recognise the restriction immediately and reduces the chance of accidental consumption.