ABSTRACT
In consideration of the universal and unavoidable use of printed warnings, this chapter deals with the effective use and design of printed warnings so that minimal injuries, illnesses, and property damage occur during exposure to a hazard. Printed warnings are generally categorized as (a) signs that appear on walls, equipment, or other relatively large supporting structures; (b) tags that are signs of small dimensions and placed usually temporarily on an object; and (c) labels that are small permanent signs placed on an object. All these categories are dealt with while adhering to the following discussion format: 1. When is a printed warning appropriate or not? 2. What is the most effective physical and semantic design of a printed warning? It is important to note that in the choice and design of printed warnings, both previous questions should be employed in a 1,2 sequence. This sequential application will assure effective meaningful design.
