Erich Friend, owner of the Texas-based Teqniqal Systems, a Fort Worth, TX-based consulting firm specializing in performing arts technology and safety, makes a case for the effective use of safety signage to help overcome barriers from languages and dialects. “The international show production environment is a very dangerous place, so there is little room for error,” he notes. “Everyone should be familiar with the ISO standard pictograms for health and safety items. Any misinterpretations with regard to hazard warning and communications can result in serious injuries and even death.” Friend also directs people to ANSI Z535, a standard published by NEMA (the National Electrical Manufacturers Association), which includes the uniformity of safety color coding; environmental and facility safety signs, and communicating safety symbols. ANSI further enables the design, application, use and placement of product safety signs, labels, safety tags and barricade tape.
—Linda Hamburger, from “Focus on Fundamentals,” PLSN, July 2011
