A Guide to OSHA Safety Standards
DPI Canada follows the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) safety standards. Make sure to select the correct safety sign for your specific application. Colors, wording, and symbols all serve specific purposes in the design and layout of safety signs.
Choosing the correct safety sign can be a matter of compliance or non-compliance with your local safety authorities. Refer to the Safety Sign Selection Guide below for more information.
Please contact us if you need assistance selecting the correct safety sign.
Safety Sign Selection Guide

DANGER (DA)
Use when there is an imminently hazardous situation which has a high probability of death or serve injury. It should not be considered for property damage unless personal injury risk is present.
WARNING (WA)
Use when there is a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury. It should not be considered for property damage unless personal injury risk is present.
CAUTION (CA)
Use when there is a hazardous situation which may result in minor or moderate injury. CAUTION should not be used in the place of DANGER, particularly when there is the possibility of death or severe injury. It may also be used to alert against unsafe practices.
NOTICE (NA)
Use when you want to indicate a statement of company policy as the message relates directly or indirectly to the safety of personnel or protection of property. NOTICE should not be used in the place of DANGER, WARNING or CAUTION.
SAFETY FIRST (SA)
This sign indicates general instructions relative to safe work practices and the location of safety equipment, and reminds readers of proper safety procedures.
EMERGENCY (EM)
This sign provides instructions as to the location of First Aid, Rescue, or Response Equipment.