Biohazard signs

Biohazard Signs for Storage, Processing, and Disposal Areas

What the Biohazard Symbol Means and Where It Is Required

The three-crescent biohazard symbol is standardized internationally as symbol W009 in ISO 7010 and is one of the most recognized safety symbols in the world. Under OSHA's Bloodborne Pathogens standard, 29 CFR 1910.1030(g)(1), biohazard warning labels are required on:

• Containers of regulated waste
• Refrigerators and freezers containing blood or other potentially infectious materials
• Containers used to store, transport or ship blood or other potentially infectious materials

Facility signage extends that same warning to room entrances, work areas and equipment, giving people notice of the hazard before they enter or make contact.

Biohazard Signs Designed for OSHA, ANSI, and ISO Compliance

OSHA specifies that biohazard warning labels be fluorescent orange or orange-red with the symbol and legend in a contrasting color. Wholesale Customize Labels's biohazard signs meet these requirements and apply ANSI Z535.2 formatting so the signal word, symbol and message work together. Related categories include health hazard signs and chemical hazard signs for facilities managing multiple exposure risks.

Marking a lab, healthcare or waste handling area? Wholesale Customize Labels's team can help you select compliant biohazard signage for every location. to get started.

Frequently Asked Questions About Biohazard Signs

What does a biohazard sign mean?

A biohazard sign signifies the actual or potential presence of biological hazards such as blood, other potentially infectious materials, or biohazardous waste. OSHA designates the biological hazard warning for this purpose in 29 CFR 1910.145(e)(4).

What color is a biohazard sign?

OSHA's Bloodborne Pathogens standard specifies fluorescent orange or orange-red biohazard warning labels with the symbol and lettering in a contrasting color. Facility signs commonly pair the symbol with ANSI Z535 signal word formats.

Where are biohazard signs required?

OSHA requires biohazard warnings on regulated waste containers, refrigerators and freezers containing blood or other potentially infectious materials, and containers used to store, transport or ship those materials. Signs are also used at entrances to areas where biohazardous work is performed.