From busy school corridors to public library entrances, slips and trips can happen in places people use every day.

Wet floors, unexpected steps, uneven paving and temporary obstructions can all create hazards for pupils, staff, visitors and members of the public.

Choosing the right slip and trip warning signs helps communicate these risks clearly, particularly in buildings used by people of different ages and abilities.

But which signs should schools and public buildings consider? Where should they be displayed? And is a Slippery Floor Sign more appropriate than a Mind the Step Sign or Uneven Surface Warning Sign ?

This guide explains how to choose suitable signs for different areas of your premises, with practical advice for school caretakers, facilities managers and those responsible for maintaining public buildings.

Why Slip & Trip Signs Matter in Schools and Public Buildings

Schools and public buildings often have high levels of pedestrian activity.

People may be moving between classrooms, offices, communal areas, entrances and outdoor facilities throughout the day.

Potential hazards include:

• Rainwater brought through entrances.

• Wet floors during cleaning.

• Raised door thresholds.

• Unexpected steps.

• Uneven outdoor paving.

• Temporary maintenance work.

• Obstacles in corridors.

• Changes in floor level.

These hazards can affect everyone, but the needs of younger children, older visitors and people with mobility or visual impairments should also be considered.

Clear warning signs can help people recognise hazards, but they should support appropriate cleaning arrangements, maintenance, accessible routes and other necessary safety measures.

1. Slippery Floor Signs for School Entrances

School entrances can become wet during rainy weather as pupils, staff and visitors enter the building.

Water carried in on footwear may create slippery conditions, particularly on smooth flooring.

Slippery Floor Signs can help warn people where a slipping risk remains.

Where Might They Be Needed?

• Main school entrances.

• Reception areas.

• Covered entrances.

• Sports hall entrances.

• Changing room access areas.

• Other locations affected by wet conditions.

Choosing the Right Sign

Consider whether the hazard is temporary or persistent.

For temporary wet floors, a portable warning notice may be appropriate, alongside suitable entrance matting, cleaning and other measures.

A permanent wall-mounted sign may be considered where a relevant residual hazard remains, but shouldn't replace measures to prevent floors becoming dangerously slippery.

Buying tip: Choose wording that accurately describes the condition. A Slippery Floor Sign is generally more relevant to wet surfaces than a Trip Hazard Sign.

2. Wet Floor Signs for Cleaning Operations

Schools, libraries, leisure centres and other public buildings often carry out cleaning while parts of the premises remain in use.

Freshly cleaned floors may present a temporary slipping hazard.

Caution Wet Floor Signs can help alert people to the affected area.

Where Should They Be Displayed?

Typical locations include:

• Corridors.

• Entrance halls.

• Washrooms.

• Canteens.

• Reception areas.

• Communal facilities.

Place temporary warnings where people can see them before reaching the wet surface.

If the affected area can be approached from several directions, more than one warning or suitable barriers may be necessary.

Should Wet Floor Signs Be Left Out Permanently?

No. Temporary notices should be removed when the hazard has been resolved.

Leaving them in place unnecessarily can reduce their usefulness and create confusion.

Important: Warning signs should support safe cleaning arrangements rather than replace them.

3. Mind the Step Signs for Doorways and Entrances

Some school buildings and public premises contain unexpected steps or raised thresholds.

These may be particularly noticeable in older buildings, extensions or areas where different floor levels meet.

A Mind the Step Sign helps alert people to a defined step or change in level.

Common Applications

• Door thresholds.

• Entrances to older buildings.

• Changes in floor height.

• Access points between adjoining rooms.

• Relevant raised platforms.

Why Choose Mind the Step?

The wording is specific.

It tells people to look out for a step rather than providing a general warning about an uneven surface.

Buying tip: Where the hazard is one clearly defined step, a Mind the Step Sign may communicate the risk more effectively than a general Trip Hazard Sign.

4. Uneven Surface Signs for School Grounds

Outdoor areas around schools and public buildings may contain uneven paving, irregular ground or changes in surface level.

Examples include:

• Pedestrian paths.

• Playground access routes.

• Courtyards.

• Car park footpaths.

• Outdoor entrances.

• Paths between buildings.

Uneven Surface Warning Signs can help identify an irregular walking surface where a warning remains appropriate.

Choosing the Right Material

For outdoor installations, choose a sign material and fixing method suitable for the expected weather conditions.

Rigid signs may be useful where a mounted warning board is required.

Always check the individual product specification before ordering.

A Sign Isn't a Substitute for Repairs

If paving is damaged or a walking route is unsafe, the priority should be appropriate maintenance and risk reduction.

A warning sign may be useful while repairs are arranged or where a remaining hazard needs to be communicated.

5. Trip Hazard Signs for Corridors and Maintenance Areas

Schools and public buildings may occasionally have temporary obstacles in pedestrian routes.

Examples include:

• Maintenance equipment.

• Temporary cables.

• Building work.

• Equipment deliveries.

• Changes to access routes.

A Trip Hazard Sign can help warn people about a remaining tripping risk.

However, unnecessary obstacles should be removed and cables managed appropriately.

In some circumstances, barriers or temporary route changes may be more effective than a warning sign alone.

Where Might Trip Hazard Signs Be Useful?

• Temporary maintenance areas.

• Building work zones.

• Restricted corridors.

• Relevant service areas.

• Locations affected by temporary works.

Buying tip: If the hazard is specifically an uneven floor or unexpected step, consider using the more precise wording Uneven Surface or Mind the Step .

6. Caution Stairs Signs for Shared Buildings

Staircases are common in schools, colleges, libraries, council offices and other public buildings.

Where a particular stair-related hazard remains, a Caution Stairs Sign may provide an additional warning.

Where Might They Be Displayed?

• Relevant stair approaches.

• Older building staircases.

• Areas with unusual stair layouts.

• Locations where a specific residual hazard has been identified.

Are Stair Warning Signs Always Necessary?

No.

Ordinary staircases don't automatically require a Caution Stairs Sign.

The need depends on the risk and the suitability of existing measures, including lighting, handrails, contrasting markings and maintenance.

Which Slip & Trip Signs Should You Choose?

Different hazards require different warning messages.

This table provides general buying guidance, not a list of signs that every school or public building must display.

Choosing Signs for Different Types of Public Buildings

Not all premises have the same hazards.

Primary and Secondary Schools

Consider entrances, corridors, changing areas, outdoor paths and routes used by pupils and visitors.

Signs should be clear, suitably positioned and supported by appropriate supervision and safety measures.

Colleges and Universities

Larger campuses may contain multiple buildings, workshops, laboratories, outdoor paths and communal areas.

Review the hazards present in each location rather than ordering identical signs for every building.

Libraries and Community Centres

Entrances, shared facilities and changes in floor level may need attention.

Consider the needs of visitors who may be unfamiliar with the building.

Council Offices and Public Buildings

Public-facing premises may be used by people with a wide range of mobility and accessibility needs.

Warning signs should form part of wider arrangements for safe and accessible movement around the building.

Leisure Centres and Sports Facilities

Wet changing areas, entrances and circulation routes may present slipping hazards.

The correct signs depend on the actual conditions, flooring and controls in place.

Accessibility: Make Warning Signs Easy to Understand

Schools and public buildings are used by people with different needs.

When selecting and installing warning signs, consider:

• Clear, recognisable symbols.

• Legible wording.

• Suitable sign size.

• Appropriate viewing distance.

• Good lighting.

• Unobstructed positioning.

• The needs of people with visual or mobility impairments.

Where appropriate, recognised safety symbols can help communicate hazards consistently.

However, a sign alone may not be sufficient to make an unsafe route accessible.

For example, an unexpected step may require physical improvements, contrasting markings or an alternative accessible route rather than simply displaying a Mind the Step Sign.

Where Should Slip & Trip Signs Be Displayed?

Position warning signs where people can recognise the hazard before encountering it.

Common Installation Locations

Entrances: Before wet or slippery floor areas.

Corridors: At relevant approaches to temporary hazards.

Doorways: Where a step or threshold presents a remaining risk.

Outdoor paths: Before uneven ground or paving.

Maintenance areas: At suitable access points to affected areas.

What About Mounting Height?

There is no single universal mounting height for every slip or trip warning sign.

The appropriate position depends on the location, viewing distance and intended audience.

For schools, consider whether the warning needs to be recognised by adults, children or both.

For public buildings, consider the needs of people with different heights and abilities.

Practical tip: Check each sign from the normal approach direction before deciding on its final mounting position.

Permanent vs Temporary Slip & Trip Signs

One important purchasing decision is whether the warning is needed for a temporary condition or a continuing hazard.

Temporary Signs

Temporary warnings may be suitable for:

• Cleaning operations.

• Spillages.

• Maintenance work.

• Temporary changes to walking routes.

Portable notices and barriers may be appropriate where the condition changes throughout the day.

Permanent Signs

Fixed signs may be considered where a particular residual hazard remains.

Examples include an unavoidable step or a specific change in level.

However, permanent signage should not be used to avoid necessary repairs or improvements.

Choosing the Right Sign Material

The Sign Shed offers a selection of safety sign materials, depending on the product.

Self-Adhesive Vinyl

Self-adhesive signs may be suitable for compatible smooth, clean surfaces such as doors and panels.

Rigid Plastic

Rigid plastic signs may be useful for wall-mounted warnings in corridors, entrances and other suitable locations.

Outdoor Sign Materials

Outdoor installations may require more durable materials and suitable fixings.

Check the product specification and installation requirements before purchasing.

Buying Slip & Trip Signs for Multiple School Buildings

Schools and public organisations may be responsible for several buildings or sites.

Ordering signs without reviewing each location can lead to unnecessary purchases or missing warnings.

A practical approach is to create a simple signage schedule.

This helps facilities managers identify suitable signs, quantities and installation locations before placing an order.

For organisations managing multiple premises, a consistent approach to sign wording and materials may also simplify future replacement purchases.

Are Slip & Trip Signs Legally Required in Schools?

Schools and organisations responsible for public buildings have duties to manage relevant safety risks.

The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 , relevant workplace regulations and other applicable duties may be relevant depending on the premises and activities.

The Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996 require appropriate safety signage where significant risks remain after other relevant control measures have been taken.

However, there is no universal requirement to display a particular Slip Hazard Sign or Trip Hazard Sign in every school corridor or public building entrance.

The correct measures depend on the hazards present and the relevant risk assessments.

Warning signs should support appropriate maintenance, cleaning, supervision, accessible routes and other necessary precautions.

Common Mistakes When Buying Signs for Schools

Avoid these frequent mistakes:

1. Ordering identical signs for every building without reviewing the hazards.

2. Using a Slippery Floor Sign where the main risk is a raised step.

3. Using a generic Trip Hazard Sign when a more specific warning is available.

4. Leaving temporary Wet Floor Signs in place unnecessarily.

5. Installing signs where they're hidden by open doors.

6. Choosing signs that are too small for the intended viewing distance.

7. Overlooking outdoor access routes.

8. Selecting materials unsuitable for the installation.

9. Failing to consider accessibility.

10. Assuming a warning sign removes the need for repairs or other controls.

School & Public Building Sign Buying Checklist

Before ordering, review the following.

Entrances and Corridors

• Wet entrance areas assessed.

• Door thresholds reviewed.

• Unexpected steps identified.

• Temporary cleaning arrangements considered.

Outdoor Areas

• Paths and paving inspected.

• Playground access routes reviewed.

• Relevant uneven surfaces identified.

• Outdoor sign materials considered.

Accessibility and Visibility

• Sign wording is clear.

• Recognised symbols considered.

• Viewing distances assessed.

• Signs positioned before hazards.

• Accessibility needs considered.

Purchasing and Maintenance

• Correct signs selected.

• Suitable sizes chosen.

• Materials checked.

• Quantities calculated.

• Installation positions confirmed.

• Inspection and replacement arrangements considered.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Slip and Trip Signs Are Commonly Used in Schools?

Common examples include Slippery Floor Signs, Wet Floor Signs, Mind the Step Signs, Uneven Surface Warning Signs and Trip Hazard Signs. The appropriate choice depends on the hazards present.

Do Schools Need Wet Floor Signs?

Temporary Wet Floor Signs may be appropriate where cleaning or spillages create a slipping hazard. The need for signage depends on the risk and other controls in place.

Where Should Mind the Step Signs Be Displayed?

They should be positioned where people can recognise an unexpected step or change in level before reaching it.

Are Uneven Surface Signs Suitable for Playgrounds?

They may be appropriate at relevant approaches to uneven ground or paving, but necessary repairs and other safety measures should not be overlooked.

Should Schools Use Permanent Slippery Floor Signs?

Permanent signs may be considered where a relevant residual hazard remains. However, they should not replace suitable flooring, cleaning arrangements or other measures to control slipping risks.

Can Slip and Trip Signs Be Used Outdoors?

Yes, where the selected material and installation are suitable for outdoor conditions.

What Size Safety Signs Should Schools Buy?

Choose a size that can be recognised from the relevant viewing distance, taking account of the intended audience, lighting and mounting location.

Buy Slip & Trip Safety Signs for Schools from The Sign Shed

Whether you're replacing damaged notices, fitting out a new school building or reviewing safety signage across several public premises, choosing the right signs helps communicate hazards clearly.

At The Sign Shed, we supply Slip, Trip & Fall Safety Signs for schools, colleges, libraries, community centres, council buildings and other UK premises.

Our range includes:

• Trip Hazard Signs.

• Slippery Floor Signs.

• Uneven Surface Warning Signs.

• Mind the Step Signs.

• Caution Stairs Signs.

Choose from a selection of sizes and materials to suit different installation requirements.

Made in Britain , with bulk savings available on eligible orders.

Shop Slip, Trip & Fall Safety Signs at The Sign Shed and find suitable warning notices for your school or public building.