Warning beacon colours explained

Beacons convey strong and vital messages in the colours they use; they allow people to become aware of their surroundings and any possible dangers that might be on-coming. Beacons deliver clear messages not only in their colour, their position, place and time of use.

Knowing the meaning of behind the colours of beacons will allow you to determine their purpose for your next action and if installing them, will allow you to choose the right colour for your application.

As a general guideline:

Colour: Red

The colour red is usually associated with strong messages such as danger, hazard, and emergency situations. Red is considered a powerful signal that can trigger an automatic message to any viewer. Red coloured beacons are mostly used to warn people to keep away from a dangerous situation/area.

Colour: Amber/Yellow

The colour amber or yellow often triggers a persons thoughts to slow down and be cautious. For this reason, amber colour beacons are used on slow moving vehicles, on construction sites, airports and other in establishments where there may be crowds for increased awareness that caution is needed.

Colour: Green

The colour green indicates safety. It delivers a message that a particular situation is currently being handled and the area is safe. This colour signal offers people assurance that everything is under control.

Colour: Blue

The colour blue is mostly used by emergency vehicles – for this reason blue beacons are not applicable to be used in certain places such as public roads. If you are not certain if a blue beacon is the right colour for your application, it’s best to check with your local authority who will advise further.

Colour: Clear

Clear beacons are often used alongside other coloured beacons and are generally used in offices and schools as an alternative indication. This indication is often left open to the end-users specific requirements.