Caution vs Danger vs Warning

Caution vs Danger vs Warning: What’s the Difference?

In workplaces across New Zealand and Australia, safety signs play a critical role in protecting workers and visitors. But not all signs mean the same thing — and understanding the difference between Caution, Warning, and Danger signs is essential for proper compliance with AS/NZS 1319:1994 and Health and Safety at Work (HSW) regulations.

So, what exactly separates these signs? Let’s break it down.

🟡 Caution Signs

Signal Word: CAUTION
Used when: The hazard may cause minor or moderate injury if not avoided.
Colour: Typically yellow background with black text or symbol.
Examples:

• Caution: Wet Floor

• Caution: Forklift Operating

• Caution: Hot Surface

NZ Use Case: Commonly placed in warehouses, kitchens, and anywhere minor injuries could occur if care isn’t taken.

🟠 Warning Signs

Signal Word: WARNING
Used when: The hazard could cause serious injury or death, but isn’t as immediate or certain as danger.
Colour: Usually orange background with black symbol/text.
Examples:

• Warning: Flammable Gas

• Warning: Keep Clear of Moving Parts

NZ Use Case: Found in plant rooms, machinery areas, and chemical storage facilities where significant risks are present.

🔴 Danger Signs

Signal Word: DANGER
Used when: There’s a high risk of death or serious injury from immediate hazards.
Colour: Black, white, and red — the most visually urgent colour scheme under AS/NZS 1319.
Examples:

• Danger: High Voltage

• Danger: Confined Space

• Danger: Keep Out

NZ Use Case: Electrical rooms, confined spaces, construction zones — any situation with an immediate life-threatening hazard.

📏 Why This Matters Under AS/NZS 1319:1994

The Australian/New Zealand Standard clearly defines when each sign type should be used. Using the wrong category of sign may:

• Mislead workers or make them underestimate a serious hazard

• Result in non-compliance during safety audits

• Lead to legal liability in the event of an incident

✅ Quick Reference Table