When it comes to workplace safety, chemical signs are more than just stickers on a wall - they’re lifesaving guides. Whether you’re working in manufacturing, laboratories, farms or even cleaning services, the risks of hazardous substances are real. And that’s exactly why caution signage for chemicals is so important.
Chemical accidents don’t make headlines until something goes horribly wrong. But behind the scenes, it’s the simple caution signs - bold colours, clear pictograms, unmistakable wording - that prevent everyday dangers from turning into disasters.
We’ll break down exactly what chemical signage means, why it matters and how workplaces across Australia can stay on top of their safety signage responsibilities.
Why Caution Signs for Hazardous Chemicals Matter
Hazardous materials come in many forms: liquids, gases, powders. Some burn. Some explode. Some poison. Others slowly erode metal.
That’s why chemical hazard signage is mandatory in environments where these substances are present. Without clear caution signs, workers and visitors could unknowingly expose themselves to risks that cause burns, respiratory problems, poisoning or worse.
Caution signage related to chemicals provides critical information at a glance:
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What the chemical is
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What type of hazard it poses
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How to handle it safely
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What to avoid (e.g., flames, water, other chemicals)
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What protective equipment is required
And when it’s an emergency - when seconds matter - knowing what that chemical sign is trying to tell you can make the difference between control and chaos.
Common Types of Hazardous Material Caution Signs
Let’s break down the most common types of chemical signs you’ll see across Australian workplaces.
1. Flammable Materials
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Symbol: Flame
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Text Example: “CAUTION: Flammable Material – Keep Away from Open Flames”
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Common Locations: Fuel storage, paint sheds, maintenance workshops.
Flammable materials ignite easily and can turn a minor incident into a major fire. Having this caution sign near petrol, thinners, alcohol or acetone is not optional, it’s lifesaving.
2. Toxic Substances
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Symbol: Skull and Crossbones
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Text Example: “CAUTION: Toxic Chemicals – Avoid Inhalation and Skin Contact”
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Common Locations: Agricultural supply stores, laboratories, pest control services.
Toxic substances can harm health through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact. Without clear safety signage, employees might unknowingly expose themselves to life-threatening risks.
3. Corrosive Chemicals
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Symbol: Corrosion (liquid eating away at metal and hand)
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Text Example: “CAUTION: Corrosive – Wear Protective Equipment”
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Common Locations: Chemical plants, battery storage areas, school science labs.
Acids, alkalis and cleaning products can corrode metal - and skin. These chemical hazard signs warn people to use gloves, goggles or aprons when handling.
4. Compressed Gases
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Symbol: Gas Cylinder
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Text Example: “CAUTION: Compressed Gas – Handle with Care”
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Common Locations: Welding workshops, laboratories, refrigeration maintenance.
Cylinders under pressure can explode if mishandled. Caution signage here doesn’t just help, it protects everyone in the surrounding area.
5. Oxidising Agents
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Symbol: Flame Over a Circle
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Text Example: “CAUTION: Oxidiser – Keep Away from Combustibles”
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Common Locations: Industrial plants, medical facilities, swimming pool supply areas.
Oxidisers may not burn themselves, but they supercharge fires. The right chemical signage prevents catastrophic chemical reactions.
6. Explosives
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Symbol: Exploding Bomb
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Text Example: “CAUTION: Explosive Material – No Smoking or Open Flames”
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Common Locations: Mining sites, demolition companies, fireworks storage.
It’s not dramatic to say that chemical safety signage for explosives saves lives.
7. Radioactive Materials
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Symbol: Radiation Trefoil
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Text Example: “CAUTION: Radioactive Material – Authorised Personnel Only”
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Common Locations: Hospitals, mining operations, research facilities.
Radiation isn’t visible, but the trefoil symbol is. Without this caution sign, workers may unknowingly enter areas with long-term health risks.
8. Biohazardous / Infectious Materials
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Symbol: Biohazard
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Text Example: “CAUTION: Biohazard – Infection Risk”
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Common Locations: Medical waste areas, pathology labs, hospitals.
From used needles to contaminated biological samples, biohazard chemical signage keeps infection risks clear and contained.
Finding the Right Chemical Caution Signage
At New Signs we have a range of Chemical Hazard Signs to assist you find exactly what you are looking for:
- Chemical Signs: A full collection of all our Chemical Signs.
- Chemical Danger Signs: A collection specific to Danger Signs for chemicals.
- Hazchem Signs: Our Hazchem Signs Collection includes:
In addition to your Chemical Signs you may require the following:
Key Elements of Effective Chemical Hazard Signage
Chemical signs include four key elements:
1. Pictograms
Instantly recognisable images: Flames, skulls, exploding bombs - allow workers to recognise hazards at a glance.
2. Signal Words
“CAUTION,” “WARNING,” or “DANGER”: These words set the tone for how severe the risk is.
3. Hazard Statements
Short, sharp phrases explaining the risk: “Highly flammable,” “Fatal if swallowed,” or “Causes severe burns.”
4. Precautionary Statements
These tell you what to do next: “Keep locked up,” “Wear protective gloves,” or “Do not breathe dust or fumes.”
Chemical Signs Save Lives
Every chemical stored, used or transported in your workplace carries responsibility and chemical signage is your frontline defence. Whether it’s flammables, corrosives, toxins or radioactive materials, caution signage gives clear warnings to prevent injuries and tragedies.
In Australia, with strict guidelines and accessible resources, there’s no excuse for inadequate chemical hazard signage. Don’t think of these signs as just compliance, they’re a commitment to your people’s wellbeing.
So next time you walk past a chemical sign at work, take a second to read it properly. It’s not just a sign, it is the first line of defence.
FAQ's
1. What is the purpose of chemical signage in the workplace?
Chemical signage alerts workers and visitors to potential hazards, providing clear instructions for safe handling, storage and emergency actions.
2. Are chemical signs required by law in Australia?
Yes. Australian workplaces must use chemical signs and placards for storage areas.
3. What’s the difference between caution signs, warning signs and danger signs?
These signal words indicate severity:
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Caution: Minor hazards
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Warning: Moderate hazards
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Danger: Serious hazards or life-threatening risks.
4. How often should chemical signage be checked or replaced?
Regularly. Signs should be inspected during routine safety audits and replaced if faded, damaged or if chemical storage changes.
5. Where should chemical signs be placed in the workplace?
Chemical signs should be clearly visible at entry points, storage areas, handling stations and near emergency equipment like eyewash stations. Placement is key to ensuring that hazards are seen before anyone comes into contact with dangerous substances.
Related Blogs
Caution Ahead: Understanding Caution Signs in Australia
The Essential Guide to Hazchem Signs: Classes, Codes and Compliance
Caution Sign vs Warning Sign: Why Knowing the Difference Could Save a Life