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How to Set Up a Workplace Signage Audit (Free Checklist for AS 1319 Compliance)
A workplace signage audit ensures every safety, warning, and directional sign complies with Australian Standard AS 1319 and remains clearly visible to staff and visitors.
It also supports each organisation’s risk management plan by preventing injuries and avoiding costly WHS fines.
Why a Signage Audit is Important for Workplace Safety
A signage audit keeps your site legally compliant and ensures all safety messages remain visible and relevant.
Under WHS regulations and Safe Work Australia guidance, businesses must display clear hazard and mandatory signs to protect employees and visitors.
It's essential to conduct a workplace signage audit to prevent legal breaches, improve visual management, and reduce on-site risks.
Poorly maintained or missing signs can result in penalties under the Work Health and Safety Act, especially when linked to preventable incidents.
When and How Often to Conduct a Signage Audit
A workplace should be audited at least twice a year or whenever layouts, machinery, or procedures change.
Schedule a signage audit every six months or immediately after any structural or operational change.
Regular audits help maintain visibility, update outdated materials, and replace faded or non-reflective signage before confusion arises.
Step-by-Step Workplace Signage Audit Process
Each step below explains how to inspect and record your sign compliance effectively.
The following steps outline how to conduct a comprehensive signage audit in any Australian workplace.
- Create a Site Map – Mark every area where safety or instructional signs should appear.
- Inspect Each Sign – Check for legibility, fading, damage, or obstruction.
- Verify Compliance – Confirm that the wording, symbols, and colours comply with AS 1319 requirements.
- Check Mounting Height & Location – Ensure signs are within standard viewing range (1.5 – 2.1 m).
- Review Redundancy – Remove duplicate or outdated signs that cause clutter.
- Assess Lighting & Visibility – Verify readability under both daylight and low-light conditions for strong visual management.
- Document Findings – Use a simple table to log non-compliance, location, and the required action.
- Replace or Re-order Signs – Source compliant replacements from certified suppliers.
Workplace Signage Audit Checklist
Use the following checklist to record your observations during the inspection.
| Category | Audit Question | Compliant (Y/N) | Action Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Warning Signs | Are hazard areas marked with yellow/black triangles? | ||
| Mandatory Signs | Are PPE instructions (e.g., helmets, eye protection) visible? | ||
| Prohibition Signs | Are “No Smoking” and restricted-area signs installed? | ||
| Fire & Emergency | Are fire exits and extinguishers clearly marked? | ||
| First Aid | Is the nearest first-aid station identified? | ||
| Electrical | Are high-voltage or isolation points labelled? | ||
| Traffic Control | Are vehicle routes, speed limits, and pedestrian zones signed? | ||
| Accessibility | Are Braille or tactile signs provided where required? | ||
| Maintenance | Are signs clean, undamaged, and reflective where necessary? |
Common Issues Found During Signage Audits
Most Australian worksites fail compliance due to faded print, poor placement, and outdated symbols.
The most frequent signage audit failures occur when signs fade, become obstructed, or use graphics not aligned with AS 1319.
Other issues include missing directional arrows, inconsistent font sizing, and failure to use photoluminescent materials in low-light areas.
How to Replace Non-Compliant or Damaged Signs
Order replacements that meet AS 1319 colour, size, and material standards.
Choose weather-resistant materials such as aluminium or polypropylene for outdoor use.
K2K Signs provides compliant options for construction, warehouse, and retail workplaces across Australia.
Replace faulty or non-compliant signage with products that satisfy AS 1319 requirements and suit your environment. Explore Workplace Safety Signs available at K2K Signs.
Maintaining Compliance and Safety Culture Year-Round
Plan a recurring six-month audit cycle and assign a responsible officer to update your logbook.
Maintain signage compliance year-round by scheduling recurring audits and maintaining digital records.
Regular reviews strengthen overall workplace safety culture and reinforce awareness across teams.
How K2K Signs Can Help with Workplace Signage Audits
K2K Signs helps Australian businesses stay WHS and AS 1319 compliant by supplying ready-to-install, high-visibility safety signs for every workplace environment.
Whether you are conducting your first signage audit or updating an existing site, K2K Signs provides:
- AS 1319-certified safety, warning, and mandatory signs for indoor and outdoor areas
- Custom sign printing for unique hazards or company-specific requirements
- Durable materials such as aluminium, polypropylene, and corflute are built to withstand Australian conditions
- Fast nationwide delivery for quick replacements identified during audits
- Expert advice to help facility managers and business owners meet signage obligations year-round
Regular audits are only effective when followed by compliant replacements.
K2K Signs ensures your signage remains clear, visible, and compliant, keeping your team safe and your workplace inspection-ready.
FAQs
What is a workplace signage audit?
A workplace signage audit is a structured inspection to confirm that all safety, warning, and mandatory signs comply with AS 1319 and remain clearly visible.
How often should I perform a signage audit?
Most businesses should conduct audits twice a year or whenever operations change.
Who is responsible for signage audits?
Business owners or WHS officers are accountable for ensuring signage complies with the Work Health and Safety Act and SafeWork Australia standards.
Would you like me to document audit results?
Yes. Keeping written or digital records demonstrates compliance during WHS inspections.
Are signage audits mandatory in Australia?
Yes, under WHS obligations, employers must ensure appropriate safety signage is maintained.