Wear Respiratory Protection Sign

Wear Respiratory Protection Sign – ISO 7010 Mandatory Symbol MS0004

The Wear Respiratory Protection Sign (MS0004) carries the ISO 7010 M017 blue-circle mandatory pictogram, showing a head fitted with a full-face respirator on a photoluminescent yellow-green ground. It instructs crew, contractors, and visiting technicians that an approved respirator or breathing apparatus must be worn before entering the marked space or handling the substance in question. Built for permanent shipboard service, the sign holds its clarity through fumes, humidity, and salt exposure in paint stores, tank spaces, and chemical handling areas.

Confined tank entry, paint spraying, fumigation, and cargo hold gas-freeing all expose crew to airborne solvents, particulates, or oxygen-deficient atmospheres that can cause injury or death within minutes. A missed respirator requirement at the entrance to a closed space is one of the most serious lapses a vessel’s safety system can suffer. The Wear Respiratory Protection Sign gives masters, chief officers, and safety officers a permanent, unmissable barrier reminder that reinforces the vessel’s enclosed space entry and permit-to-work procedures at the point of risk.

Why Respiratory Protection Matters

Toxic fumes, oxygen depletion, and fine particulates are among the most dangerous hazards aboard any vessel, and unlike a visible spill or a loud noise, a bad atmosphere often gives no warning before it overwhelms an unprotected crew member. Paint lockers, cargo tanks, void spaces, and battery rooms are common sites for these risks. Under the ISM Code, the Company and Master are required to identify such hazards and post clear instructions at the entrance to the space, not just in the permit-to-work paperwork. The Wear Respiratory Protection Sign fulfils that duty visibly, prompting seafarers and shore personnel to fit a respirator before crossing the threshold, regardless of language or rank.

Compliance and Certification

Manufactured to the ISO 7010 M017 mandatory-action pictogram on photoluminescent substrate, this sign supports the safety sign provisions referenced in SOLAS Chapter II-2 and forms part of a documented enclosed-space entry and PPE programme reviewed during flag State inspection, Port State Control, and class surveys with DNV, ABS, and Lloyd’s Register. Keeping the IMPA 33.5647 and ISSA 47.556.47 codes on file with this listing keeps procurement and audit trail records aligned for fast reordering across a fleet.

Installation Recommendations

Position the sign at the entrance to paint stores, chemical lockers, tank spaces, void spaces, battery rooms, and any compartment subject to gas-freeing or fumigation procedures. The rigid aluminium composite panel suits exterior bulkheads and weather decks exposed to salt spray, while the self-adhesive vinyl format is suited to interior hatches, tank access covers, and equipment room doors. Clean the mounting surface thoroughly before fitting, and keep the sign clear of ventilation ducting, warning tags, or stowed gear that could obscure it from crew approaching the space.

• 425 x 425mm rigid or self-adhesive format for steel, aluminium or GRP surfaces (also available in 150 x 150mm and 225 x 225mm)
• Photoluminescent base charges under ambient light and stays visible during blackout or power loss
• UV-stable, saltwater and corrosion-resistant construction rated for exterior deck and engine room service
• Fixing options include self-adhesive vinyl, rigid ACM panel with pre-drilled holes, or mechanical fasteners
• Manufactured to the ISO 7010 M017 mandatory pictogram standard for consistent recognition fleet-wide

Order the Wear Respiratory Protection Sign (MS0004) today to close a PPE signage gap before your next survey or inspection. Bulk pricing is available for fleet-wide rollouts, and our team can match sizing and substrate to your vessel’s existing signage package on request.

Complete your onboard PPE programme with our Hazard Signs range and Fire Fighting Signs for full coverage of mandatory, warning, and emergency signage requirements.