Use Breathing Apparatus Sign

Use Breathing Apparatus Sign – ISO 7010 Mandatory Symbol MS0017

The Use Breathing Apparatus sign is a mandatory action pictogram used to instruct crew to use breathing apparatus when entering enclosed spaces, fighting fires, or working in atmospheres that may contain smoke, toxic gases, or insufficient oxygen. Rendered in the internationally recognised ISO 7010 blue circle with a white photoluminescent pictogram of a person wearing self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), this sign gives an unmistakable, language-independent instruction that ordinary respiratory protection is not sufficient for the hazard present.

Onboard ships, enclosed spaces such as ballast tanks, cargo holds, and void spaces can develop oxygen-deficient or toxic atmospheres without warning, and engine room or accommodation fires can rapidly fill compartments with dense, toxic smoke. Crew who fail to use breathing apparatus before entering such environments risk asphyxiation, toxic gas poisoning, or incapacitation within seconds. Positioning this sign at enclosed space entry points, fire equipment lockers, and emergency muster stations reinforces the critical distinction between routine respiratory protection and full breathing apparatus requirements.

Why Using Breathing Apparatus Matters

Enclosed space entry remains one of the leading causes of multiple fatality incidents in the maritime industry, frequently because crew underestimate the atmosphere or attempt entry without the correct equipment. Failing to use breathing apparatus in an oxygen-deficient or toxic atmosphere can cause loss of consciousness within seconds, with no warning symptoms in many cases. A clearly displayed mandatory sign at every relevant access point reinforces mandatory procedure and gives every crew member an unmistakable, universally recognised reminder before proceeding.

Compliance and Certification

This sign is manufactured to the ISO 7010 international graphical symbol standard, ensuring the pictogram is instantly recognisable to seafarers regardless of nationality or first language. Breathing apparatus signage of this kind supports compliance with the ISM Code’s requirements for documented enclosed space entry and emergency procedures, and complements the broader shipboard safety regime established under SOLAS Chapter II-2. Fitting compliant, durable signage at every relevant enclosed space and fire equipment location helps demonstrate a proactive safety culture during flag state and port state control inspections.

Installation Recommendations

Mount the Use Breathing Apparatus sign at enclosed space entry points, ballast tank and cargo hold access hatches, fire equipment lockers, and emergency muster stations. Fix the sign at eye level using stainless steel screws, rivets, or a suitable marine-grade adhesive so it withstands vibration, humidity, and saltwater exposure. In engine rooms and other high-risk areas, choose the photoluminescent variant so the pictogram remains visible if primary lighting fails, and inspect signage periodically as part of routine safety rounds to confirm it stays legible and securely fixed.

• Manufactured to ISO 7010 mandatory pictogram standard (blue circle, photoluminescent symbol)
• Rigid or self-adhesive 425 x 425mm panel to suit bulkhead or equipment mounting
• UV-stable and saltwater-resistant construction for reliable long-term marine performance
• Photoluminescent charge provides visibility during power loss or low-light conditions
• Multiple fixing options available including screw-fix, rivet, and adhesive backing

Order the Use Breathing Apparatus Sign (SKU: MS0017) today to reinforce critical enclosed-space and emergency safety procedures across your vessel.

For related shipboard safety requirements, browse our Hazard Signs and Fire Fighting Signs categories to complete your vessel’s compliant signage package.