Types of traffic signs and their meanings

Traffic signs help manage vehicle movements and keep people safe, both on the road and around busy worksites.

But with different shapes, colours, and meanings, knowing which signs you ned isn't always straightforward.

In this guide, we'll explain the main types of traffic signs, what they mean, and some of the most common signs you'll see.

We'll also take a look at how to choose the right signage for your workplace.

The Meanings Behind Sign Shapes

Circular signs

Circular signs generally give orders that road users must follow.

Signs with a red border usually tell you what you must not do, such as exceeding a speed limit.

Blue circular signs generally give positive instructions, such as directing traffic to turn in a particular direction.

Rectangular signs

Rectangular signs primarily provide directions and information.

Depending on where they’re placed, directional signs may be different colours:

• Blue - used on motorways
• Green - used on primary routes

Directional signs on non-primary routes are generally white with a black border.

Triangular signs

Triangular signs are generally used to give warnings. They’re usually white with a red border.

They most commonly indicate road hazards for drivers to be aware of, such as:

• Children
• Wild animals
• Elderly or frail pedestrians

Common Traffic Signs

Traffic signs can communicate different instructions, warnings, and information.

Some common examples include:

Order signs

Common order signs include:

• Speed limit - Shows the maximum permitted speed
• No vehicles - Indicates that vehicles are prohibited from entering
• Vehicle height restriction - Shows the maximum vehicle height permitted

Warning signs

Examples of warning signs include:

• Road narrows - Warns drivers that the road narrows ahead
• Junction signs - Warn drivers about junctions or joining traffic ahead
• Pedestrian warning - These alert drivers to pedestrians or pedestrian routes ahead

Directional AND informational signs

These signs can include:

• Parking signs - Provide information about parking and applicable restrictions
• Speed camera signs - Indicate the presence of speed cameras or enforcement
• Junction approach signs - Provide information about routes and destinations ahead

CHOOSING THE RIGHT SIGNAGE FOR YOUR SITE

Traffic signs may only be one part of keeping people informed and directing them safely around your site.

Depending on your workplace, you may also need:

• Warning signs
• Fire safety signs
• Prohibition signs
• Mandatory signs
• Other safety signage

Getting the right mix matters. Too few signs can leave important information unclear, while unnecessary signage can cause confusion.

Not sure what your site needs?

Our free site signage survey can help identify signage requirements across your workplace.

Get Essential Traffic Signs From SMI

We stock a wide range of traffic signs for workplaces and sites with different traffic management needs.

You can also explore our wider signage range, including mandatory signs, for other areas of your workplace.

Unsure what your site needs?

Get in touch with our friendly team!

FAQs

What traffic signs give orders?

Circular traffic signs generally give orders. Red-bordered circles usually indicate restrictions, while blue circles generally give mandatory instructions.

How many traffic signs are there?

There isn't one set number of traffic signs, as different signs communicate different rules, warnings, and information.

They can generally be grouped into three main categories:

• Order signs
• Warning signs
• Directional and informational signs

What does a blue circular traffic sign mean?

Blue circular traffic signs are mandatory signs. This means you must follow the sign at all times.

Common kinds of blue circular traffic signs include:

• Turn direction signs
• Minimum speed signs
• Roundabout direction signs