EN7010 Safety Signs. In an increasingly globalised world, ensuring that safety messages are understood universally is more important than ever. That’s the core principle behind ISO 7010 – the international standard for safety signs. Using clear, consistent pictograms to communicate vital safety information across language, cultural, and ability barriers.
First introduced in 2003, ISO 7010 was designed to harmonise safety signage across countries, industries, and sectors. The goal was to reduce accidents and confusion by establishing a recognisable, standardised set of pictograms. Pictograms that anyone, anywhere, could understand at a glance. For years, however, the adoption of ISO 7010 in the UK was limited. British businesses largely continued to rely on the existing BS5499 standard. A national code familiar to many facility managers, health and safety officers, and architects.
That all changed in January 2013 when ISO 7010 was officially adopted as a European Norm (EN 7010). Giving it a higher level of recognition and encouraging greater alignment across Europe. As a result, the EN 7010 standard began to take precedence over BS5499, prompting organisations to review their workplace signage in light of the changes.
A Decade On: Where Do We Stand Now?
More than a decade since EN 7010 replaced BS5499, confusion still remains about what businesses must do to comply. Some signage suppliers have incorrectly suggested that EN 7010 is now a legal requirement. They urge companies to undertake wholesale replacements of their existing safety signs.
Mark Bartlett, Managing Director of Signbox, offers some clarity:
“It’s a common misconception that British Standards or European Norms are automatically enshrined in law. They’re not – they serve as Codes of Practice. However, they can take on legal weight when referenced within government legislation or official guidance documents such as Approved Codes of Practice.”
In the case of safety signs, the relevant legislation remains the Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996. This enacted the EC Directive 92/58/EEC. Importantly, these regulations have not been updated to incorporate EN 7010, meaning there is no legal obligation to replace older BS5499 signs. Provided they remain compliant with the core intent of the legislation: clear and effective communication of safety information.
So, Should You Update Your Signage?
Legally speaking, no – you are not currently required to replace all existing BS5499 signage. However, there are compelling reasons to consider aligning your signage with EN 7010:
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Clarity and consistency: EN 7010 pictograms are now widely recognised, reducing potential misunderstandings – especially in multinational workplaces.
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Professionalism and modernisation: Upgrading outdated signage can elevate your workplace environment and demonstrate a commitment to best practices.
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Future-proofing: If you’re planning an office refurbishment or a new build, it makes sense to use signage that aligns with the current European standard.
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Avoid confusion: Mixing BS5499 and EN 7010 signage in the same space can undermine the effectiveness of your safety messaging.
That’s why Signbox recommends adopting EN 7010 signage for all new projects – including building extensions, refurbishments, and fit-outs. While legacy signs may remain in place, creating a unified, modern, and compliant signage scheme across your workplace should be the goal.
How Signbox Can Help
At Signbox, we’ve been at the forefront of intelligent signage and workplace communication solutions for nearly four decades. We understand that safety signage is not just about ticking a compliance box – it’s about protecting people and promoting confidence in the built environment.
Here’s how we support our clients with EN 7010-compliant signage:
1. Expert Guidance and Consultancy
Not sure where to begin? Our team offers expert advice tailored to your site. Whether you’re navigating a complex refurbishment or simply want to update your most critical signage, we’ll assess your needs and provide strategic recommendations to keep your workplace safe and compliant.
2. Custom Safety Signage Solutions
Every workplace is unique – and your signage should be too. Our in-house design and manufacturing capabilities mean we can produce bespoke safety signs that reflect your brand identity while complying fully with EN 7010. From fire escape signs to hazard warnings, we deliver clarity, consistency, and visual appeal.
3. Fast, Flexible Online Ordering
For ready-made safety signs, our Signbox Shop offers a comprehensive range of “off-the-shelf” EN 7010-compliant signage. Perfect for quick fixes, replacements, or smaller projects, our online store makes it easy to find exactly what you need – with next-day delivery options available across the UK.
4. Sustainable and Durable Products
Our safety signs are designed to last. We use high-quality, sustainable materials that are tough enough for high-traffic environments while supporting your organisation’s environmental goals.
5. Turnkey Installation Services
Need help with fitting your signage? We offer full installation services, ensuring your signs are positioned for maximum visibility and effectiveness – with minimal disruption to your operations.
Looking Ahead
As health and safety standards evolve, businesses need partners they can trust. Signbox remains committed to helping you navigate changes in signage regulations with confidence, delivering cutting-edge solutions that protect people, elevate spaces, and future-proof your environment.
Whether you’re planning a full-scale workplace rebrand, a new build, or simply need a few updated signs, our team is here to help – from design to installation and beyond.
Explore our full range of EN 7010-compliant safety signage at shop.signbox.co.uk or contact us today to speak to one of our signage specialists.
Signbox – where innovation meets compliance.
