Hazard Signs & Symbols Explained: Poison, Toxic, Corrosive & More
In any workplace where risk is present, hazard signs are your first line of communication. They alert workers, visitors, and emergency responders to dangers before an incident occurs and in many cases, they're a legal requirement under Australian Work Health and Safety (WHS) legislation.
But not all hazard signs are the same. Poison signs, toxic signs, corrosive signage, and general hazard symbols each communicate a specific type of risk and using the wrong one can create confusion, compliance gaps, and serious safety consequences.
This guide breaks down the key hazard sign categories, the symbols used in each, and how to choose the right signage for your workplace or site.
What Are Hazard Signs?
Hazard signs are standardised safety signs used to communicate the presence of a risk or dangerous condition. They use internationally recognised hazard symbols and pictograms that convey meaning quickly and clearly, regardless of language.
In Australia, hazard signage is guided by AS 1319:1994 (Safety Signs for the Occupational Environment) and relevant WHS regulations. Hazard signs and symbols are used across industrial facilities, laboratories, warehouses, construction sites, schools, and public spaces.
The key categories include:
- Poison signs and poison symbols
- Toxic signs and toxic symbols
- Corrosive signs and corrosive substance symbols
- Hazardous material signs
- Electrical hazard signs
- Fire hazard signs
Poison Signs & the Poison Symbol
Poison signs are used wherever substances that are harmful if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin are stored or handled. The most recognised poison symbol is the skull and crossbones, a universally understood warning that a substance is potentially lethal.
Where they're used:
- Chemical storage areas
- Pest control product storage
- Agricultural and horticultural facilities
- Laboratories and research environments
Poison signage should be clearly visible at entry points, on storage cabinets, and directly on containers where relevant.
Toxic Signs & the Toxic Symbol
While often used interchangeably with poison, toxic signs specifically refer to substances with a toxicity risk, meaning they can cause harm to human health through exposure, even in small quantities. The toxic symbol typically features an exclamation mark or skull pictogram depending on the classification level.
Where they're used:
- Industrial chemical handling areas
- Manufacturing facilities
- Laboratories
- Waste management and disposal zones
Toxic signs are particularly important in environments where workers may be exposed to airborne substances, chemical splashes, or skin contact risks.
Corrosive Signs & the Corrosive Substances Symbol
Corrosive signs warn of substances that can destroy living tissue or damage materials on contact. The corrosive substances symbol depicts a liquid eating through a surface and a hand, an immediate, visceral warning that requires no explanation.
Where they're used:
- Battery storage and charging areas
- Chemical processing facilities
- Cleaning product storage
- Plating and surface treatment operations
Corrosive signage should be paired with appropriate PPE signage, requirements and spill response procedures.
Hazardous Material Signs
Hazardous material signs cover a broader category of dangerous goods, substances that pose a risk to health, safety, property, or the environment. These signs are commonly used in conjunction with Hazchem Signs for storage and transport compliance under the Australian Dangerous Goods Code.
Where they're used:
- Dangerous goods storage facilities
- Transport and logistics operations
- Fuel and chemical depots
- Manufacturing and processing plants
Electrical Hazard Signs
Electrical hazard signs identify areas where live electrical equipment, high voltage systems, or electrical risk zones are present. They are a critical component of electrical safety management on construction sites, in industrial facilities and in commercial buildings.
Common electrical hazard signage includes high voltage warnings, live equipment alerts, and lockout/tagout identification signs.
Fire Hazard Signs
Fire hazard signs communicate the presence of flammable materials or conditions that increase the risk of fire. They support fire safety compliance, emergency preparedness, and safe storage practices for flammable liquids, gases, and materials.
Where they're used:
- Fuel and gas storage areas
- Timber yards and manufacturing facilities
- Paint and solvent storage
- Any site with a significant fire load
Fire hazard signs form an essential part of a complete fire signage safety system, working alongside fire exit signs, fire regulation signs and fire action notices to ensure your site is fully prepared and compliant.
Choosing the Right Hazard Sign for Your Workplace
When selecting hazard signage, consider:
- The specific risk — match the sign category to the actual hazard present
- The location — indoor vs. outdoor, exposure to weather, UV, and chemicals
- The material — corflute for temporary or lightweight installs; aluminium composite panel (ACP) for permanent, high-durability applications; vinyl stickers for equipment and smooth surfaces
- Visibility — size, placement height, and contrast for the viewing distance required
- Compliance — ensure signs meet AS 1319 and any industry-specific requirements
Related Safety Signage
Hazard signs work best as part of a comprehensive site safety system. Explore our related ranges:
- Danger Signs — for immediate, life-threatening hazards requiring urgent action
- Warning Signs — for conditions that require caution and awareness
- Caution Signs — for lower-level risks and general safety reminders
- Hazchem Signs — for dangerous goods storage and transport compliance
- Barricade Tapes — for physical site demarcation and hazard zone control
All signage is produced in-house and dispatched Australia-wide, with bulk pricing available for multi-site and large-format orders.
Your Workplace Safety Starts with the Right Sign
Understanding the difference between hazard, poison, toxic, and corrosive signs isn't just good practice, it's essential for workplace safety and WHS compliance. The right hazard signage, correctly placed and clearly visible, can prevent incidents, protect your team, and demonstrate your commitment to a safe working environment.
Browse our full range of hazard signs or contact us for your custom requirements.
FAQ's
Q. What is the difference between a hazard sign and a danger sign?
A hazard sign communicates the presence of a general risk or dangerous condition, while a danger sign is reserved for immediate, life-threatening hazards that require urgent action. Danger signs typically use red and white colouring to signal the highest level of risk.
Q. Are hazard signs a legal requirement in Australian workplaces?
Yes. Under Australian Work Health and Safety (WHS) legislation and AS 1319:1994, employers are required to clearly communicate workplace hazards. Hazard signage is a key part of meeting these obligations, particularly where hazardous substances, electrical risks, or fire hazards are present.
Q. What is the difference between toxic and corrosive signs?
Toxic signs warn of substances that are harmful to human health through ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact. Corrosive signs specifically warn of substances that can physically destroy living tissue or damage materials on contact, such as acids and alkalis. Both require distinct symbols and should never be used interchangeably.
Q. What materials are best for outdoor hazard signs?
For outdoor applications, aluminium composite panel (ACP) is recommended for permanent or long-term installations due to its durability and UV resistance. Corflute is a cost-effective option for temporary signage, while vinyl stickers suit smooth surfaces on equipment and machinery.
Q. Can I get custom hazard signs made?
Yes. We produce fully custom hazard signs in-house, including custom layouts and text to suit your specific workplace or site requirements. Contact us or request a quote for custom hazard signage.
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