Use the Litter Bin Sign

Use the Litter Bin Sign – ISO 7010 Mandatory Symbol MS0024

The Use the Litter Bin sign is a mandatory action pictogram used throughout galleys, mess rooms, deck areas, and common spaces aboard ships to instruct crew, passengers, and visitors to use the litter bin for waste disposal rather than discarding rubbish elsewhere. Rendered in the internationally recognised ISO 7010 blue circle with a white photoluminescent pictogram of a figure depositing waste into a bin, this sign gives an unmistakable, language-independent instruction that supports vessel cleanliness, hygiene, and environmental compliance.

Onboard vessels, proper waste disposal is essential both for maintaining safe, hygienic living and working conditions and for meeting international environmental regulations governing waste discharge at sea. Litter left on deck or in common areas can create slip hazards, attract pests, and in the worst case find its way overboard in breach of MARPOL requirements. Positioning this sign at galleys, mess rooms, and deck access points reinforces proper waste handling as a matter of routine.

Why Using the Litter Bin Matters

Improper waste disposal aboard ships creates housekeeping hazards, supports pest infestation, and can result in serious regulatory breaches if waste enters the marine environment. Failing to use the litter bin, particularly on open decks, increases the risk of debris becoming a trip hazard or being carried overboard by wind or wave action. A clearly displayed mandatory sign at every relevant location removes reliance on individual habit and gives every crew member, passenger, and visitor an unmistakable, universally recognised reminder to dispose of waste correctly.

Compliance and Certification

This sign is manufactured to the ISO 7010 international graphical symbol standard, ensuring the pictogram is instantly recognisable to seafarers and passengers regardless of nationality or first language. Waste-management signage of this kind supports compliance with the ISM Code’s requirements for documented environmental and housekeeping procedures, and complements the broader shipboard safety and environmental regime established under SOLAS Chapter II-2. Fitting compliant, durable signage at every relevant galley, mess room, and deck area helps demonstrate a proactive housekeeping and environmental culture during flag state and port state control inspections.

Installation Recommendations

Mount the Use the Litter Bin sign at galley entrances, crew mess rooms, deck access points, and other common areas adjacent to waste receptacles. Fix the sign at eye level using stainless steel screws, rivets, or a suitable marine-grade adhesive so it withstands humidity, cleaning chemicals, and frequent contact in high-traffic areas. Choose the photoluminescent variant for exterior and low-light areas, and inspect signage periodically as part of routine housekeeping and 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 the Litter Bin Sign (SKU: MS0024) today to reinforce proper waste disposal practice across your vessel’s galley, mess room, and deck areas.

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