Determine correct viewing distances

How do I determine the correct viewing distance of my safety sign?

While OSHA does not specifically set regulations for sign size, text size, and the correct viewing distance of signs, the ANSI Z535.2-2011(R2017) standard can be used to guide best practices that define these important factors.

The viewing distance is dependent on two important elements: viewing conditions and text size.

To first determine a viewing distance, the conditions for reading the sign must be evaluated by the end user. If signage is posted where:

  • workers will have time necessary to react to a hazard;
  • text is legible and easy to read;
  • text can be read without obstruction from objects, smoke, etc;
  • signage is in well-lighted area;

then the signage is likely posted in “favorable” conditions.

If there are factors such as low lighting, obstructions, or decreased reaction time, the conditions may be “unfavorable” and the viewing distance should be reduced. Only the end user can consider the use environment and make this determination.

Sign size does not necessarily affect the viewing distance of a sign, but larger signs generally have larger text sizes, which directly affects viewing distances.

Using a SafetySign.com OSHA compliant safety sign (item # I2404), under favorable conditions the 14” x 10” sign’s message can be read from up to 11 feet, 9 inches away. Larger signs, with bigger text, can be read from further away in favorable conditions.

  • Viewing distances demostration
Demostrated using item # I2404.

According to the ANSI Z535-2011 standard, for favorable viewing conditions, a ratio of 25 feet of viewing distance per inch of text is needed.


SafetySign.com does not recommend or specify the use of a specific safety sign because it does not have knowledge of the hazard(s) our customers are identifying. It is the customer’s sole responsibility to identify the hazard(s) that may be present and select one or more signs (stock or custom) that accurately identify their specific hazard(s) and complies with any applicable federal, state or local laws or regulations, any worksite specific rules or regulations and/or any applicable safety standards (including, without limitation, ANSI and/or OSHA standards). SafetySign.com disclaims any and all liability (excluding liability for our Product Warranty contained in our Terms and Conditions) for any sign selected by a customer and shall not be responsible for any personal injury or property damage resulting from the use of signs purchased from it or for the independent interpretation made of any applicable federal, state or local laws or regulations, any worksite specific rules or regulations, and/or any applicable safety standards (including, without limitation, ANSI and/or OSHA standards). Customer shall indemnify and hold SafetySign.com and its corporate parent and its officers, directors and affiliates harmless from and against any and all claims, loss or expense (including attorneys’ fees) arising from or related to the purchase and use by customer or any third party of any sign purchased by customer from SafetySign.com.
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