2 min read

How the right signage can help boost safety and efficiency

Picture of Blackwoods Blackwoods : 28 January 2026

3:55

Signage provides vital communication in fast-paced manufacturing environments. Productivity, efficiency and safety depend on well-organised workspaces, where workers know what to do, where to go and how to use equipment. When signage is inadequate, absent, damaged or incorrect, it can result in confusion, hinder communication, slow down work and increase the risk of injuries.

Manufacturing equipment and processes continually evolve, yet old signage may be left in place, despite being in the wrong position or even redundant. Too many wall signs create a patchwork effect, so messages aren’t clearly visible, and workers suffer ‘signage fatigue’. Signs that are too small or poorly positioned can be hard to read.

A culturally and linguistically diverse workforce may struggle to understand some messages and graphics. Safety and emergency signs may not comply with Australian standards. It can be challenging to ensure signage is compliant, installed in the right location and messages are easily understood by everyone.

Surveys to make sure signage is compliant and effective.

Blackwoods can help manufacturers ensure signage is doing its part to keep workers safe and operations running smoothly. Blackwoods technical safety specialists can carry out signage surveys tailored to the needs of manufacturing facilities.

Is existing signage still relevant? Does it help or hinder workers and workflow? Are updated signs needed?

Through a survey, the Blackwoods team can:

Verify regulatory signage complies with Australian standards. This includes hazard, speed limit, prohibition, mandatory PPE and emergency signs.
Advise on appropriate signage when new production lines are introduced, or multiple locations are consolidating at one site.
Review signage after changing equipment or production processes to remove irrelevant signs, identify gaps and choose more appropriate options.
Ensure signage has the correct size, position, wording and graphics for good visibility and communication, so workers can avoid hazards, find tools and work efficiently.
Assist in updating old, damaged, missing or unclear signage. Consolidate and simplify artwork on multiple signs to create fewer yet more efficient signs.
Offer support and continuous improvement to make sure signs are always fit for purpose, convey clear messages, improve safety and enhance workflow.

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In-house signage solutions from Blackwoods.

If new signs are required, Blackwoods Signage offers a range of solutions. Blackwoods Signage provides end-to-end service, from design to manufacturing, installation and ongoing support.

A wide range of stocked signage is available, manufactured from durable materials that withstand industrial conditions. Where applicable, signs meet Australian standards for safety and compliance. Multilingual options are also available to support diverse workforces, and ensure clear communication in challenging environments. Signs can also be customised to meet site requirements, ensuring clear and consistent messaging.

Blackwoods Head of Technical Peter Agnos says the company’s job is to add value for customers that goes beyond product supply.

“We have our team members on the ground, they can visit with customers and physically walk the site, make informed decisions then essentially leverage an in-house capability that goes from design all the way through to manufacturing and installation if necessary. I think that’s quite a unique value proposition.”

Available at Blackwoods - Your manufacturing solutions partner.

Blackwoods offers expert sign surveys and a comprehensive range of solutions through Blackwoods Signage. Talk to your local Blackwoods Technical Safety Specialist to ensure your site meets the highest standards. Because safety and clarity should never be left to chance.