From Family Handyman · · 1m
Why Construction Barricades Have Different Colors
Construction barricade colors signal specific safety risks: red for danger, yellow for caution, orange for work zones.
In brief
Construction barricade colors signal specific safety risks: red for danger, yellow for caution, orange for work zones. Red barricades warn of hazards like electrical risks; yellow tape marks physical dangers; orange barriers indicate roadwork or construction zones. Originally reported by Family Handyman.
Safety Color Rules
Red, yellow, and orange barricades signal different safety risks in construction zones.
Red Barricades Warn of Danger
OSHA uses red to identify hazards like exposed electrical equipment or fire risks.
Yellow Tape Marks Physical Hazards
Yellow shows up on caution tape around areas with falls or falling objects.
Orange Barricades Signal Work Zones
Orange barriers warn of construction work and temporary traffic changes on roads.
Green Signs Point to Safety Equipment
Green signs direct people to first aid stations or emergency equipment.
Blue Signs Provide Workplace Info
Blue signs explain equipment status without warning immediate hazards.
Purple Signs Warn of Radiation
Purple signs with radiation symbols mark areas with radiation hazards.
The short version
Red barricades warn of hazards like electrical risks; yellow tape marks physical dangers; orange barriers indicate roadwork or construction zones.
