In an emergency, clear and effective signage can save lives. Fire safety signs are more than just stickers on a wall; they’re a crucial part of any building’s fire protection strategy, helping people navigate to safety and access life-saving equipment quickly.
But what do all the colours and symbols mean? And which signs are required by UK fire safety law?
In this post, we break down the types of fire safety signage, explain their colours and meanings, and show you how to stay compliant with regulations.
Why Fire Safety Signage Matters
Fire safety signs serve four key purposes:
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Warn people of potential fire risks
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Guide people to emergency exits and safe areas
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Inform people of fire-fighting equipment and how to use it
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Instruct people on specific fire safety actions
In the UK, these signs must comply with the Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996, which align with European standards.
Fire Safety Sign Colours and Their Meanings
Fire safety signs are colour-coded to convey meaning instantly, even under stress or low visibility. Here’s what each colour means:
🔴 Red – Fire Equipment & Emergency Stop
Purpose: Identifies fire-fighting equipment and emergency stop controls.
Examples:
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Fire extinguisher signs
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Fire alarm point signs
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Fire blanket signage
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Emergency stop button locations
Shape: Square or rectangular with white symbols on a red background.
Red = Take Action (usually to fight fire or stop equipment)
🟢 Green – Safe Condition / Emergency Escape
Purpose: Indicates safe routes, exits, and equipment related to escape or first aid.
Examples:
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Fire exit signs
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Emergency exit routes
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Assembly point signs
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First aid kits
Shape: Square or rectangular with white symbols/text on a green background.
Green = Safety (shows you where to go or what to use to stay safe)
🔵 Blue – Mandatory Instructions
Purpose: States actions that must be taken to comply with fire safety.
Examples:
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“Fire Door Keep Shut” signs
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“Keep Clear” around fire exits or panels
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“Wear PPE” where required during fire risk work
Shape: Circular with white symbols on a blue background.
Blue = Must Do (a required action or behaviour)
🟡 Yellow/Amber – Warnings & Caution
Purpose: Alerts to fire risks or dangerous areas that require caution.
Examples:
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Flammable materials warning
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Risk of fire signage in storage areas
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Explosive atmosphere warning
Shape: Triangular with black symbols on a yellow background.
Yellow = Warning (be aware of a specific hazard)
Common Fire Safety Symbols (And What They Mean)
Here are some of the most recognisable fire safety icons and what they communicate:
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| A flame symbol on red | Location of fire-fighting equipment (e.g. extinguisher or fire blanket) |
| A person running through a door | Emergency exit or escape route |
| Fire extinguisher icon | Fire extinguisher stored here |
| Bell or alarm icon | Manual fire alarm call point |
| “Fire Door Keep Shut” | Fire doors must remain closed to prevent fire spread |
| Triangle with flame and exclamation | Warning of flammable/explosive material |
Where Should Fire Safety Signs Be Placed?
To stay compliant with UK fire regulations, signs must be:
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Clearly visible and well-lit (even in darkness if necessary)
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Positioned at key decision points, such as stairwells, doorways, and escape routes
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Located near relevant equipment, like extinguishers, alarms, and fire doors
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Installed at a visible height, typically between 1.7m and 2m above floor level
Every building is different, so a professional fire risk assessment can determine exactly where signs are needed.
What Does the Law Require?
Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, employers, landlords, and building owners are legally responsible for:
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Providing adequate fire safety signage
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Ensuring signage is maintained and visible
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Training occupants or staff on what the signs mean
Failure to comply can lead to fines, enforcement notices, or even prosecution, especially if signage is missing, damaged, or misleading.
Updating and Maintaining Fire Safety Signs
Just like alarms or extinguishers, signage must be kept up to date. Check regularly for:
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Faded or damaged signs
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Obstructed views (e.g. by furniture or displays)
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Changes in building layout that affect exit routes
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New fire risks that require warning signage
As a general rule, signs should be reviewed annually and updated whenever there’s a change to fire safety plans or building use.
Final Thoughts
Fire safety signage isn’t just about ticking boxes for compliance; it’s about making sure people can act quickly, confidently, and safely in an emergency. When every second counts, clear visual guidance can prevent injury and even save lives.
By understanding the colours, meanings, and legal requirements behind fire signs, you’re better equipped to keep your building and everyone in it protected.
For expert advice on fire protection and prevention measures, contact Martyn Young Fireproofing Consultancy on 07585 896648