The Advanced Photon Source
a U.S. Department of Energy Office of Science User Facility

APS Guideline for Work Area Demarcation, Warnings, and Controls

Introduction

By means of the practices described below, CAT/XSD hopes to reduce risks resulting from persons inadvertently entering a hazardous work area.

Creating an Exclusion Zone

When performing work that could put others at risk, you must demarcate an exclusion zone around your work. This is typically done with yellow and black plastic "barricade tape." Use signs, placards, and other postings as necessary to warn others not to enter the demarcated area unless they have business in the area and have authorization (blanket or occasion-specific) to enter. Where appropriate, post special requirements for entry.

Entering an Exclusion Zone

Do not enter unless you meet all of the following conditions:

  • You have business in the area;
  • You have authorization to enter; and
  • You are in compliance with all posted requirements for entry.
Warning Signs

Caution—Eye Protection Required signs shall be posted at the entry to all areas where the potential for eye injury exists, such as laboratories, shops, and beamline radiation enclosures.

Caution—Hard Hat Required signs shall be posted at the entry to all areas where the potential for head injury exists, such as where installation work is being performed overhead or where persons might bump their heads on low-hanging objects.

Caution—Foot Protection Required signs shall be posted at the entry to all areas where there is a moderate-or-greater likelihood of suffering a foot injury caused by a falling or rolling object.

A HOT sign shall be posted during bakeouts of vacuum equipment and while hot plates and heating mantles are in use.

These hazard and warning signs and others are available through the XSD Safety Coordinator.

Reviewed September 15, 2016