7 Safety Signs for your Farm

Running a farm is a juggling act that combines productivity, efficiency, and—most importantly—safety. Farms are home to powerful machinery, unpredictable animals, and potentially hazardous substances, making safety a constant concern. One of the most effective ways to manage these risks is through proper signage.

Safety signs are more than just compliance with regulations; they’re essential tools that safeguard your workers, visitors, and even your livelihood. In this article, we’ll look at seven of the most common safety signs for your farm and discuss why they’re indispensable.

1 - Chemical store: No smoking or naked flames.

For farms that have chemical storage including fertilisers and vehicle diesel, safety signs to warn people of the presence of potentially harmful chemicals are required. Red Tractor set this as one of their mandatory standards and if you own a farm accredited by Red Tractor, installing suitable safety signage is something you may have been asked to do. Along with ‘No smoking’ and ‘No naked flames’ signs these sets of signs are the most popular safety signs requested by farm owners and managers. 

For the chemical store you will also need a sign to communicate what to do in case of a biohazard emergency, including where to locate the nearest phone and what phone numbers to dial for assistance. These types of signs can be customised to your farm’s specific needs. 

About Red Tractor

The Red Tractor scheme is a UK food assurance program ensuring food safety, animal welfare, and environmental protection. There are strict standards, with regular audits for compliance. The logo guarantees traceability and responsible production, giving consumers confidence in British food quality. 

2 - Warning: Cows with calves

Farms are synonymous with animals, but they can be unpredictable, even for seasoned handlers. There is a legal requirement to warn of cattle anywhere there is a public right of way such as a bridlepath. Animals which are large and strong, particularly those with young, can pose a risk to anyone encroaching on their space. Safety signs near paddocks, gates, or pathways leading to animal enclosures alerts everyone to stay vigilant. 

These signs don’t just protect people—they also help avoid stress or harm to the animals, ensuring a safer environment for all.

3 - Warning: Farm vehicles in operation

Tractors, harvesters, and other machinery are essential on farms, but they also come with inherent dangers. Areas where machinery operates, such as barns or fields during harvest, should have clear safety signs such as “Caution: Farm machinery in operation”.

These signs remind workers and visitors to stay clear of operational zones, reducing the risk of accidents caused by blind spots or unexpected movements. They’re especially vital during peak activity periods like planting or harvest seasons.

4 - Stop: Avian Flu Precautions

In some areas of the UK right now, precautionary measures are being taken against Bird Flu. To help stop the spread of this damaging disease, farm visitors need to take special measures such as disinfecting footwear and washing hands after contact with birds. Signage notifies visitors and farm workers of these procedures and reminds them to take action. 

You may also need to place ‘Control zone’ signage around your property’s boundaries. For more information about Avian Influenza and how you can stop the spread, visit Bird flu (avian influenza): how to prevent it and stop it spreading.  

5 - Warning: CCTV in operation

CCTV is an effective tool in deterring and detecting rural theft and trespassing and is being used more and more on farms of all sizes across the UK. If you use a CCTV system, then you need signs to warn people that you are using it. Informing the public that they could be seen by the CCTV system is a legal requirement and the signage also acts as an extra deterrent to criminals. 

Similarly, you also need to have signs on display where you are using barbed or razor wire, and guard dogs. 

Placing the signs in a highly visible location enhances visitor safety, reduces the risk of injury, and mitigates the risk of legal liability.  

Here is more information about what you need to think about when installing and using CCTV from the Information Commissioner's Office

6 - Warning: Ewes with lambs

During early spring in particular, there is an increased need to remind people of the impact of their and their dog’s presence on ewes and their young. Dogs can be a threat to sheep and even if a dog does not physically attack an animal, a loose dog can cause mental distress that can be fatal. Signs reminding people to keep their dogs on leads are invaluable and encourage the public to take more care around young animals and their protective parents.

Signs placed around sheep pens and fields, at entrance and exit points, and alongside public footpaths will warn people of their responsibilities. 

7 - Warning: Hedge cutting 

Farms can have a lot of hedgerow and managing the size and spread of hedges is an intensive task which usually involves heavy machinery and sharp tools. Signage to warn people such as motorists and pedestrians of this potentially dangerous activity is required. Roadside stanchions and roll-up roadside signs warning of the risk are invaluable in making the area safer for both farm workers and passers-by. 

Under the Management of Hedgerows (England) Regulations 2024, hedge cutting of hedgerows of a certain size is not permitted between March 1st and 31st August (inclusive), meaning hedge cutting season in the UK is usually during the Autumn and Winter months. There is more information about hedge cutting at NFU Online Hedgerow management 

Placement Tips for Farm Safety Signs

• Visibility Is Key: Ensure signs are placed at eye level and in well-lit areas. Avoid cluttering or obstructing signs with tools, equipment, or vegetation.

• Durability Matters: Farms are tough environments, so use weather-resistant signs that can withstand the elements, from wind and rain to bright sunlight.

• Customisation: Tailor your signs to reflect the specific hazards on your farm. For example, if you operate a dairy farm, you might need signs warning of slippery surfaces in milking parlours.

Building a Safety-First Culture

While safety signs are critical, they work best when paired with a culture that prioritises safety. Regularly train your workers on the risks they face and how to interpret safety signage effectively. Encourage open communication, where workers can report damaged or missing signs promptly.

Safety isn’t just about protecting people—it’s about protecting the reputation of your farm. A well-maintained safety system reassures workers, contractors, and visitors that you take their wellbeing seriously.

Conclusion

For farm owners, safety signs are more than a legal requirement—they’re essential allies in the day-to-day operations of a safe and efficient workplace. From protecting against livestock hazards to guiding workers in emergencies, these five types of signs form the backbone of any farm’s safety strategy.

Investing in high-quality, strategically placed signage isn’t just good practice; it’s a vital step towards a safer, more productive farm. So, take a walk around your property today—are your safety signs up to scratch?