Warnings can be either visual, audible, or both. They may also be tactile. Warnings do not prevent exposure to a hazard, but they do provide a visual or audible indicator to warn people of potential danger.
OSHA’s 1910.145, Specifications for accident prevention signs and tags details the following types of signs:
•Danger Signs – Signs that alert people to specific and immediate dangers.
•Warning Signs – Signs that warn people of potential hazards that can lead to death.
•Caution Signs – Signs used to alert people to potential hazards. This can also be used to caution people against certain unsafe practices. This class is for hazards that can result in minor or non-life threatening) accident or injury.
•Safety Instruction Signs – These signs offer instructions for how someone should act or perform to avoid possible hazards.