From commercial cleaning cupboards and school laboratories to warehouses and industrial chemical stores, hazardous substances are used in many UK workplaces.

If your business stores, handles or uses potentially harmful substances, you've probably come across the term COSHH signs.

But what exactly are COSHH signs? Are they the same as chemical hazard signs? And which safety signs should your workplace display?

The answer depends on the substances involved, the hazards they present and the precautions required.

In this guide, we'll explain what COSHH means, the different types of chemical safety signs available and how to choose suitable warnings for your workplace.

What Does COSHH Mean?

COSHH stands for the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002.

These regulations require employers to assess and control relevant risks to health arising from hazardous substances used or generated during work.

Substances covered by COSHH can include:

• Cleaning chemicals and detergents.

• Solvents and degreasers.

• Paints, adhesives and certain coatings.

• Acids and alkalis.

• Dusts produced by workplace activities.

• Fumes and vapours.

• Certain gases.

• Biological agents.

COSHH isn't limited to chemicals supplied in bottles or containers.

For example, wood dust produced during machining and fumes generated by some industrial processes may also create risks requiring assessment and control.

The purpose of COSHH is to prevent or adequately control exposure to substances that could harm people's health.

COSHH signs can help communicate relevant hazards and precautions, but displaying a sign is not a substitute for assessing and controlling exposure.

What Are COSHH Signs?

The term COSHH Signs is commonly used to describe safety signs associated with hazardous substances and chemical safety.

However, COSHH doesn't establish one universal sign or a separate standardised collection of pictograms.

Instead, workplaces may use several types of signs to communicate the hazards and precautions identified through their assessments.

These include:

• Chemical Hazard Warning Signs.

• Corrosive Substance Signs.

• Toxic Material Warning Signs.

• Mandatory PPE Signs.

• No Smoking and No Naked Flames Signs.

• Emergency Eyewash and Safety Shower Signs.

• Restricted Access Notices.

The correct combination depends on the substances, activities and risks involved.

For example, a chemical handling area may need a Corrosive Warning Sign alongside an Eye Protection Must Be Worn notice.

A different workplace using hazardous cleaning products may require other precautions.

Which COSHH Safety Signs Do UK Workplaces Need?

There isn't a standard shopping list that applies to every workplace.

Instead, the signs should reflect the hazards present and the controls identified through the relevant assessments.

Here are the main categories to consider.

1. Chemical Hazard Warning Signs

Chemical Hazard Signs alert people to risks associated with hazardous chemicals or substances.

Recognised workplace warning signs generally use a yellow triangular design with a black symbol.

Common examples include:

• Corrosive Material.

• Toxic Material.

• Flammable Material.

• Oxidising Material.

• Explosive Material.

• General Hazard Warning.

These signs may be suitable at relevant chemical storage rooms, laboratory entrances and industrial handling areas.

When Should You Use a Chemical Warning Sign?

Consider a warning sign where a significant hazard remains and people need to recognise it before approaching or entering an area.

For example, a corrosive material warning may be appropriate at the entrance to a chemical store containing corrosive substances.

However, the wording and symbol must accurately reflect the hazard.

A generic Chemical Hazard Sign isn't automatically the correct choice for every situation.

2. Corrosive Substance Signs

Corrosive substances can cause serious injury through contact with skin or eyes.

Examples may include certain acids, alkalis and industrial cleaning products.

A Corrosive Substance Warning Sign can help identify areas where these hazards are present.

Common Applications

• Laboratory acid stores.

• Industrial chemical cupboards.

• Battery maintenance areas.

• Relevant cleaning chemical stores.

• Chemical processing facilities.

Where the specific hazard is an acid, an Acid Warning Sign may communicate that information more directly.

Buying tip: Choose the warning that describes the actual substance or hazard rather than selecting a sign simply because it contains the word COSHH.

3. Toxic Material Warning Signs

Some hazardous substances can cause serious harm if inhaled, swallowed or absorbed.

A Toxic Material Warning Sign may be appropriate where a relevant toxic hazard needs to be communicated.

Typical applications include:

• Laboratories.

• Chemical manufacturing areas.

• Industrial storage rooms.

• Relevant hazardous substance handling areas.

It's important to distinguish between different chemical hazard classifications.

A substance classified as an irritant isn't necessarily classified as acutely toxic.

Use the chemical's classification, safety data sheet and workplace assessment to identify the appropriate warning.

4. Flammable Material Warning Signs

Many workplaces use substances that are flammable as well as potentially harmful to health.

Examples include certain solvents, fuels, paints and gases.

A Flammable Material Warning Sign helps identify a relevant fire hazard.

However, flammability alone does not necessarily make a substance subject to COSHH. Fire and explosion risks may fall under other requirements, including DSEAR.

Where Might These Signs Be Needed?

• Flammable liquid stores.

• Industrial chemical storage areas.

• Relevant workshops.

• Solvent handling areas.

• Gas storage facilities.

Depending on the assessment, additional signs may include No Smoking or No Naked Flames notices.

5. Mandatory PPE Signs

Some activities involving hazardous substances require personal protective equipment.

Where PPE is required, suitable mandatory signs can help communicate the precautions people must follow.

Examples include:

• Eye Protection Must Be Worn.

• Protective Gloves Must Be Worn.

• Protective Clothing Must Be Worn.

• Respiratory Protection Must Be Worn.

• Face Protection Must Be Worn.

Does Every COSHH Area Need PPE Signs?

No.

PPE requirements depend on the substance, exposure route, task and other control measures.

For example, transferring corrosive chemicals may require different precautions from accessing a properly managed storage room.

PPE should be selected through the relevant assessment, rather than choosing equipment based solely on a warning pictogram.

Important: PPE is generally considered after more effective ways of preventing or controlling exposure have been assessed.

6. No Smoking & Prohibition Signs

Some chemical-related activities also require prohibition signs.

These communicate actions that must not be carried out because they could create additional risks.

Examples include:

• No Smoking.

• No Naked Flames.

• No Unauthorised Access.

• Other appropriate restrictions.

A No Smoking Sign may be particularly relevant to an area where flammable substances are stored or handled.

However, the need for these signs depends on the risks and applicable requirements.

7. Emergency Eyewash & Safety Shower Signs

Where hazardous substances could cause serious injury through contact, emergency facilities may be required.

Depending on the assessment, these may include:

• Emergency Eyewash Stations.

• Safety Showers.

• First Aid Facilities.

• Emergency Escape Routes.

Suitable signs help people locate the equipment quickly.

Where Should Emergency Signs Be Displayed?

Signs should be clearly visible at or near the relevant equipment or along suitable approaches.

For example, an Emergency Eyewash Sign can help identify an eyewash station provided in a chemical handling area.

The sign should support the availability, accessibility and maintenance of the emergency facility.

8. Restricted Access Signs

Some chemical storage or processing areas may require controlled access.

Where restrictions are necessary, signs such as Authorised Personnel Only or No Unauthorised Access can help communicate them.

These signs may be relevant to:

• Chemical stores.

• Industrial processing areas.

• Restricted laboratories.

• Designated hazardous substance areas.

However, access signs do not replace suitable physical security, training or supervision.

COSHH Signs vs GHS Hazard Symbols: What's the Difference?

This is a common source of confusion when businesses buy chemical safety signs.

Many people use the phrase COSHH symbols when referring to the red diamond pictograms found on chemical product labels.

Those pictograms belong to the GHS-based chemical classification and labelling system, implemented in Great Britain through GB CLP.

They are not a separate set of symbols created by the COSHH Regulations.

Workplace Warning Signs

Recognised workplace warning signs commonly feature:

• A yellow triangle.

• A black pictogram.

• A black border.

They are used to communicate hazards associated with workplaces, areas or activities.

GHS/CLP Hazard Pictograms

Chemical product labels commonly feature:

• A red diamond border.

• A white background.

• A black hazard pictogram.

They communicate classified hazards associated with a chemical substance or mixture.

Quick Comparison

There are specific workplace rules for hazardous chemical storage areas, containers and pipes. In some circumstances, CLP pictograms may also be used for workplace identification.

The important distinction is that a chemical container label and an area warning sign are not automatically interchangeable.

What Do the Common COSHH Hazard Symbols Mean?

Although the term COSHH symbols is informal, customers often use it when searching for chemical hazard pictograms.

Here are the nine familiar GHS pictograms.

A chemical may carry more than one pictogram depending on its classification.

Not every hazardous substance will display all these symbols, and not every COSHH-relevant exposure involves a labelled chemical product.

For example, workplace-generated dust may require COSHH controls even though it doesn't arrive in a container displaying a GHS pictogram.

Which COSHH Signs Are Needed in Different Workplaces?

Different businesses use hazardous substances in different ways.

The following examples show how sign requirements may vary.

COSHH Signs for Warehouses

Warehouses may store cleaning chemicals, chemical products, solvents and other hazardous materials.

Signs to consider may include:

• Chemical Hazard Warnings.

• Flammable Material Signs.

• Corrosive Substance Signs.

• No Smoking Notices.

• Restricted Access Signs.

The appropriate selection depends on the substances and storage arrangements.

COSHH Signs for Laboratories

Laboratories may contain acids, alkalis, solvents and other hazardous substances.

Relevant signs could include:

• Corrosive Material.

• Toxic Material.

• Eye Protection Must Be Worn.

• Protective Gloves Must Be Worn.

• Emergency Eyewash.

Laboratory signs should reflect the actual substances, activities and precautions.

COSHH Signs for Cleaning Cupboards

Commercial cleaning products can present different hazards.

Some may be classified as irritants, while others may cause serious eye damage or contain corrosive substances.

Depending on the products and risks, appropriate notices may include:

• Corrosive Material Warning.

• Hazardous Substance Warning.

• Restricted Access.

• Relevant PPE Instructions.

Not every cleaning cupboard needs the same signs.

COSHH Signs for Workshops & Garages

Workshops may use degreasers, solvents, battery acid and other substances.

A relevant warning may include:

• Battery Acid.

• Corrosive Material.

• Flammable Material.

• Eye Protection Must Be Worn.

The correct signage depends on the substances and work activities.

COSHH Signs for Schools & Colleges

Schools and colleges may store laboratory chemicals, cleaning substances and materials used in practical lessons.

Signage should be selected for the actual hazards and the people who may encounter them.

Relevant storage and access controls are particularly important where pupils or other unauthorised people could encounter hazardous substances.

What Signs Should Be Displayed in a Chemical Storage Area?

Chemical storage areas are an important application for COSHH-related safety signs.

The correct warnings depend on the substances stored, their quantities and the hazards present.

For example:

These are examples rather than a universal legal checklist.

UK safety sign requirements include specific provisions for rooms and areas storing significant quantities of hazardous substances.

Depending on the circumstances, suitable workplace warning signs or relevant CLP pictograms may be needed, unless individual package or container labelling adequately communicates the hazard.

Are COSHH Signs a Legal Requirement in the UK?

This is one of the most important questions for businesses purchasing chemical safety signage.

COSHH does not require every workplace to display one particular sign called a COSHH Sign.

Instead, employers must assess relevant hazardous substance risks and put appropriate controls in place.

Under the Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996, suitable safety signs are required where significant risks remain after other relevant control measures have been taken.

There are also specific requirements relating to the identification of hazardous substances in certain storage areas, containers and pipes.

Other regulations may apply depending on the substances and activities.

Does Displaying a COSHH Sign Make a Workplace Compliant?

No.

A warning sign alone doesn't demonstrate that the workplace has adequately controlled hazardous substance risks.

Appropriate arrangements may also include:

• COSHH assessments.

• Safer substitute substances.

• Suitable ventilation or extraction.

• Safe storage and segregation.

• Training and information.

• Safe working procedures.

• Appropriate PPE.

• Emergency arrangements.

• Inspection and maintenance.

Safety signs help communicate risks and precautions, but they do not replace these measures.

Where Should COSHH Signs Be Displayed?

Chemical safety signs should be positioned where people can recognise the warning before encountering the hazard.

Common locations include:

• Chemical storage room entrances.

• Relevant cupboard doors.

• Laboratory access points.

• Chemical handling areas.

• Industrial work zones.

• Appropriate approaches to hazardous storage facilities.

Choosing the Right Position

Consider:

1. Whether the sign is visible before entering the area.

2. The normal direction of approach.

3. Whether doors or equipment could obscure it.

4. The viewing distance.

5. Lighting conditions.

6. Whether more than one approach requires a warning.

Avoid displaying unnecessary signs that could confuse people or obscure more important information.

Choosing the Right COSHH Sign Size & Material

Once you've identified the appropriate sign, consider where it will be installed.

Self-Adhesive Vinyl Signs

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

Rigid Plastic Signs

Rigid plastic signs may be appropriate for walls, room entrances and other locations requiring a mounted board.

Outdoor & Industrial Signs

Some environments may require more durable sign materials and appropriate fixings.

Always check the individual product specifications before ordering.

What Size Should You Buy?

The correct size depends on:

• Viewing distance.

• Mounting position.

• Available space.

• Lighting.

• Symbol and wording legibility.

A chemical cupboard notice may need a different size from a sign displayed at the entrance to a large industrial storage area.

Common Mistakes When Buying COSHH Signs

Avoid these frequent mistakes:

1. Assuming there is one universal COSHH safety sign.

2. Confusing GHS/CLP product labels with workplace warning signs.

3. Using a generic Chemical Hazard Sign where a more specific warning is necessary.

4. Buying PPE signs without checking the actual protective requirements.

5. Assuming all cleaning cupboards require identical signage.

6. Failing to identify hazards from workplace-generated dusts or fumes.

7. Using warning signs instead of controlling exposure.

8. Positioning signs where they cannot be seen before the hazard.

9. Choosing materials unsuitable for the installation.

10. Failing to review signage when chemicals or working practices change.

COSHH Safety Signs: Workplace Buying Checklist

Before ordering, use this checklist.

Identify the Hazards

• Hazardous substances identified.

• Relevant safety data sheets reviewed.

• Workplace-generated dusts and fumes considered.

• Exposure routes assessed.

• COSHH controls identified.

Choose the Signs

• Relevant chemical warnings selected.

• Corrosive or toxic hazards considered.

• Flammable risks reviewed separately where relevant.

• Mandatory PPE signs assessed.

• Prohibition signs considered.

• Emergency equipment signs reviewed.

Check Installation

• Signs positioned before the hazard.

• Relevant approaches considered.

• Suitable sizes chosen.

• Materials checked.

• Visibility and lighting assessed.

Review and Maintain

• Signs remain accurate and legible.

• Damaged signs replaced.

• Notices reviewed when substances change.

• Unnecessary warnings removed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Does COSHH Stand For?

COSHH stands for the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002.

What Are COSHH Signs?

COSHH Signs is a commonly used term for workplace safety signs associated with hazardous substances. There is no single universal COSHH sign design.

Are COSHH Signs Yellow or Red?

Workplace warning signs commonly use yellow triangular symbols. GHS/CLP chemical hazard pictograms use red-bordered diamonds. The appropriate format depends on the purpose and applicable requirements.

How Many COSHH Hazard Symbols Are There?

People often refer to the nine GHS hazard pictograms as COSHH symbols. However, these are chemical classification pictograms rather than a separate symbol system created by COSHH.

Do All Chemical Cupboards Need COSHH Signs?

Not necessarily. The need for signage depends on the substances, quantities, risks and applicable requirements.

Is a Corrosive Warning Sign a COSHH Sign?

A Corrosive Warning Sign may form part of workplace arrangements for controlling and communicating risks from hazardous substances. However, the sign itself is a chemical hazard warning rather than a separate COSHH-specific symbol.

Do I Need PPE Signs in a Chemical Storage Area?

Only where the relevant assessment identifies PPE requirements that need to be communicated. Not every chemical store requires identical protective equipment.

Are COSHH Signs Required by Law?

Appropriate safety signs may be legally required where significant risks remain after other controls, and specific identification requirements apply to certain hazardous substance storage areas, containers and pipes.

Buy Chemical Hazard & COSHH-Related Signs from The Sign Shed

Whether you're fitting out a laboratory, updating a chemical storage room or replacing worn safety notices, choosing the right signs helps communicate hazardous substance risks clearly.

At The Sign Shed, we supply a range of Chemical Hazard Signs for UK workplaces, warehouses, laboratories, workshops, schools and industrial premises.

Our collection includes warnings for:

• Corrosive substances.

• Toxic materials.

• Flammable chemicals.

• Acids and battery acid.

• Harmful fumes.

• General chemical hazards.

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

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

Shop Chemical Hazard Signs at The Sign Shed and find suitable warning notices for your workplace.