ASTM Z535.2 Proposal

This proposal draws on the DOT and NFPA concepts that utilize signs or label shapes with fixed colors for various hazard classes. The ASTM proposal uses the three LAPI signal words, Danger , Warning , and Caution to represent level of hazard, but in a change from other systems also uses color to indicate level of hazard. This system, thus, reinforces level of hazard by fixed shape, word and color. 

Several advantages are claimed for this general warning sign system it is informative to foreign workers, the illiterate (including the very young), the color-blind, and the visually impaired. 

There is little doubt that with some training, this would be an easy system to learn, retain and use. This is also true, however, of the NFPA system, the ANSI system and the NIOSH system. In distinction, ASTM is designed to be a hazard alert sign system, especially visible and informative at a distance. It is supposed to put a reader on notice of the existence of a hazard and hopefully cause him to adopt a cautious attitude and behavior. 

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