AS 1319:1994 — Safety Signs for the Occupational Environment
The Australian Standard governing the design and use of workplace safety signs — including asbestos warning and identification signage.
AS 1319:1994 sets out the design, colour, format, and placement of safety signs used in Australian workplaces. It is referenced throughout WHS guidance for warning, danger, prohibition, mandatory, and emergency-information signage.
For asbestos work, AS 1319 governs the look and use of warning signs at the boundary of asbestos removal areas, on enclosures and decontamination units, and on asbestos waste containers. Signs must be clearly visible, legible at the appropriate distance, and use the correct shape and colour for the message type.
It also sets requirements for sign durability, lighting, and maintenance — signs must remain legible for the life of the hazard, and damaged or faded signs must be replaced.
What this means for you: if you operate or contract removal work, signage is a small but visible compliance item that regulators check on site. Getting it wrong is a common — and avoidable — finding during inspections.
Disclaimer: this is a plain-English summary, not legal advice. Always refer to the current published Standard.
Disclaimer: this is a plain-English summary, not legal advice. Always refer to the official source and consult a qualified adviser for your specific situation.
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