The role of signage in fire safety
In the UK, fire safety signage is not optional — it’s a legal requirement in many buildings. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 states that responsible persons (usually the employer, building owner, or occupier) must take steps to ensure that people can evacuate a building safely in the event of fire, this includes Article 14 (2) (g) emergency routes and exits must be indicated by signs;
Clear signage:
- Guides people quickly towards safe exits
- Identifies fire safety equipment
- Highlights risks and restricted actions
Without the right signage, even the best fire strategy can fail, leaving people at risk and businesses non-compliant.
When is fire safety signage required in the UK?
Most workplaces and public buildings in the UK need fire safety signs to comply with legislation. These include:
- Offices and shared workspaces
- Hospitals and care homes
- Schools, colleges, and universities
- Hotels, leisure centres, and gyms
- Retail units and shopping centres
- Warehouses and factories
- Transport hubs
Signs are especially important where:
- Escape routes are not obvious
- The building has multiple floors
- The public or visitors are present
- People with mobility issues may need additional guidance
A professional fire risk assessment will confirm exactly which signs your building requires to meet UK fire safety law.
Find Out If You Need a Fire Risk Assessment.
The different types of fire safety signage
Under UK regulations, fire signs are standardised in design and colour to make them instantly recognisable. Here are the main types you need to know about:
Fire exit and escape route signs
- Purpose: Direct occupants to the nearest safe exit.
- Design: Green with a white pictogram and directional arrow.
- Rules: Must be visible at all times, including in the dark — so illuminated or photoluminescent versions are often required.
These are some of the most critical signs, especially in large or unfamiliar buildings.
Fire equipment signs
- Purpose: Show the location of fire extinguishers, hose reels, and alarm call points.
- Design: Red with a white pictogram.
- Rules: Positioned directly above or next to the equipment.
These ensure that trained staff or the fire service can quickly find and use essential fire-fighting tools.
Warning signs
- Purpose: Highlight fire risks, such as flammable materials or electrical hazards.
- Design: Yellow triangle with a black border and black symbol.
- Examples: “Warning – Flammable liquids” or “Warning – Compressed gas.”
Mandatory signs
- Purpose: Show actions people must take to reduce fire risk.
- Design: Blue circle with a white pictogram or text.
- Examples: “Fire door keep shut” or “Fire door keep locked.”
These are critical for preventing fire spread through doors and compartments.
Prohibition signs
- Purpose: Indicate unsafe or banned actions.
- Design: Red circle with a diagonal line across a black pictogram.
- Examples: “No smoking” or “Do not use lift in the event of fire.”
Together, these different types of fire safety signage create a complete safety system that supports legal compliance and saves lives.
Why UK fire safety signage must be maintained
Installing signs is not enough — UK law requires that they are kept in good condition and always remain visible. The Fire Safety Order states that safety measures must be “maintained in an efficient state, in efficient working order and in good repair.”
Common issues that make signage non-compliant include:
- Signs hidden by furniture or displays
- Faded, damaged, or unclear signs
- Missing or incorrect signage after building alterations
Regular inspections are essential. A fire risk assessment will review all signage to confirm that it:
- Meets the latest UK standards (BS EN ISO 7010 applies to design)
- Is correctly positioned and visible
- Covers all necessary risks and escape routes
Quick questions on UK fire safety signage
Is fire signage a legal requirement in the UK?
Yes — under the Fire Safety Order and Health and Safety regulations, most public and work buildings must display clear fire safety signage.
How often should signage be checked?
Regularly as part of routine fire safety checks, and formally in your annual fire risk assessment.
Do small businesses need fire safety signage?
Yes — even small offices or shops must comply with UK fire safety law if escape routes are not immediately obvious.
What’s the penalty for missing or incorrect signage?
Businesses can face enforcement notices, fines, or even prosecution for non-compliance with fire safety law.
Protect lives with FireRiskAssessments.com
Fire safety signage is more than a box-ticking exercise — it’s a legal requirement in the UK. It guides people to safety, supports evacuation, and ensures compliance with UK fire safety law.
But signs only work if they’re:
- The correct type
- Placed in the right locations
- Regularly maintained
- Checked as part of a full fire risk assessment
A professional fire risk assessment from FireRiskAssessments.com will ensure your building has the correct signage, meets all UK legal requirements, and is prepared for emergencies.
Get in touch with FireRiskAssessments.com today for a free fire risk assessment quote and make sure your signage — and your building — are safe and compliant.