What are ANSI standards?

ANSI standards are voluntary, consensus-based standards that are developed by American National Standards Institute (ANSI) accredited organizations. These standards are made to bring universal and consistent qualities to safety definitions, consumer products, and more.

For safety signs, certain ANSI standards provide guidelines for a sign’s format or use of color. Using ANSI standards can ensure that all types of safety signs within the standard are consistent in their design.

ANSI standards are voluntarily adopted, and ANSI has no power to enforce these standards. Many standards have been incorporated into other organizations’ standards, such as those of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

When OSHA incorporates certain ANSI standards, for an employer to remain in compliance with OSHA, he must follow the specific ANSI standards that pertain to his industry.

Any ANSI standards that have been adopted are specifically mentioned in OSHA’s laws and regulations.

One ANSI standard that has been incorporated into OSHA standards is ANSI Z535-2011(R2017). This standard defines a format for accident prevention signs, including the classification of safety signal words and the maximum viewing distances for signage.

Where can I find ANSI standards?

Specific ANSI standards can be found on NSSN, a search engine that is powered by ANSI, or via purchase from the ANSI Standards Store.

What is the ANSI format for safety signs?

ANSI safety sign formats are based on the ANSI Z535-2011(R2017) standard. This standard has three important elements, including a safety header, images, and the sign legend. Learn more here.


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