ANSI Z535.

1-2016
Revsion of ANSI Z535.1-2006

American National Standard

Safety Signs
 ANSI Z535.1-2016, v0.0

ANSI Z535.1-2016
Revision of
ANSI Z535.1-2006

American National Standard

Safety Colors

Secretariat:

National Electrical Manufacturers Association

Approved XXX XX, 201x

Published XXX XX, 201x

American National Standards Institute, Inc.

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ANSI Z535.1-2016, v0.0

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ANSI standards and guideline publications, of which the document contained herein is one, are
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 ANSI Z535.1-2016, v0.0

Approval of an American National Standard requires verification by

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Published by

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This page intentionally left blank.Contents

Page

Foreword......................................................................................................................................................
1 Introduction.....................................................................................................................................
2 Scope and purpose.........................................................................................................................
2.1 Scope.................................................................................................................................
2.2 Purpose..............................................................................................................................
2.2.1 Existing American National Standards..................................................................
3 Application and exceptions.............................................................................................................
3.1 Applications........................................................................................................................
3.2 Exceptions.........................................................................................................................
4 Specifications..................................................................................................................................
4.1 General..............................................................................................................................
4.2 Testing specifications.........................................................................................................
5 Terms and definitions......................................................................................................................
6 Safety Colors..................................................................................................................................
6.1 Safety colors - ordinary surface colors...............................................................................
6.2 Safety white........................................................................................................................
6.3 Safety black........................................................................................................................
6.4 Daylight fluorescent safety colors.......................................................................................
7 Optimum visibility............................................................................................................................
8 Surface finish..................................................................................................................................
9 External illumination of safety colors...............................................................................................
10 Safety color stability........................................................................................................................
11 Tables and Figures..........................................................................................................................
12 Normative References..................................................................................................................
Annex A (informative) Chromaticity diagram for safety yellow...................................................................
Annex B (informative) Color region comparison between ANSI Z535.1 and ISO 3864-4...........................
Annex C (informative) Safety color cross-reference chart..........................................................................
Annex D (informative) ISO information......................................................................................................
D1 ISO 3864-4:2011, Annex E...............................................................................................
D2 ISO references for safety orange.....................................................................................
Annex E (informative) Munsell information................................................................................................

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Figures

Figure 1 Section of the CIE 1931 Chromaticity Diagram Showing Green, Yellow-to-Red Region, and
Chromaticity Specification Boundaries for ANSI Z535.1 Fluorescent Safety Colors..................................12
Figure 2 CIE 1931 Chromaticity Diagram of Color Regions for ANSI Z535.1 Safety Colors......................13
Figure 3 Enlarged View of the CIE 1931 Chromaticity Diagram Showing Neutral Limits for Safety White
and Safety Black........................................................................................................................................ 14
Figure A1 Enlarged View of the CIE 1931 Chromaticity Diagram Showing the Color Region for Safety
Yellow........................................................................................................................................................ 16
Figure B1 ANSI Z535.1 Safety Colors Using Illuminant C and ISO 3864-4 Safety Colours Using Standard
Illuminant D65............................................................................................................................................ 17
Figure E1 Munsell Hue Circle.................................................................................................................... 22
Figure E2 Munsell Hue, Value, Chroma..................................................................................................... 23

Tables

Table 1 Specifications for Color Tolerance Charts for use with Labels and Placards Surfaced with Paint,
Lacquer, Enamel, Plastic, other Opaque Coatings, or Ink 1..........................................................................6
Table 2 Specifications for Color Tolerance Charts for Use with Labels and Placards Surfaced with Ink......7
Table 3 Specification for Colors for Use with Labels Printed on Packaging Surfaces................................10
Table 4 Specification for Fluorescent Safety Colors Recommended Limits of Fluorescent Colors in Terms
of CIE Recommendations No. 39-2, 1983 for Surface Colors for Visual Signalling...................................10
Table 5 (x, y) Chromaticity coordinates of the corners of the recommended limits for fluorescent safety
colors specified in Table 4, in terms of the CIE 1931 Standard Colorimetric System, measured with 45/0
geometry, and evaluation with CIE Standard Illuminant D65.....................................................................11
Table 6 Specifications for Safety White and Safety Black..........................................................................11
Table C1 ANSI Z535.1 Safety Colors - Cross-Reference Chart.................................................................18
Table D1 [ISO 3864-4:2011] Table E.1 – Ordinary materials: examples for object colours that fall within the
specified chromaticity coordinates and luminance factor for the colour region..........................................20
Table D2 ISO References for Colour Order Systems for Safety Colour Orange........................................22

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 ANSI Z535.1-2016, v0.0

Foreword
In 1979, the ANSI Z53 Committee on Safety Colors was combined with the ANSI Z35 Committee on
Safety Signs to form the ANSI Z535 Committee on Safety Signs and Colors. The Z535 Committee has
the following scope:
To develop standards for the design, application, and use of signs, colors, and symbols
Intended to identify and warn against specific hazards and for other accident prevention
purposes.
While the basic mission and fundamental purpose of the ANSI Z535 Committee is to develop, refine,
and promote a single, uniform graphic system used for communicating safety and accident prevention
information, the Z535 Committee recognizes that this information can also be effectively communicated
using other graphic systems.
The Z535 Committee created subcommittees to update the Z53 and Z35 standards and to write new
standards. To date, the following six standards comprise the ANSI Z535 series:
ANSI Z535.1 Safety Colors [ANSI Z53.1-1979 was updated and combined into this standard
in 1991]
ANSI Z535.2 Environmental and Facility Safety Signs [ANSI Z35.1-1972 and Z35.4-1972
were updated and combined into this standard in 1991]
ANSI Z535.3 Criteria for Safety Symbols [new in 1991]
ANSI Z535.4 Product Safety Signs and Labels [new in 1991]
ANSI Z535.5 Safety Tags and Barricade Tapes (for Temporary Hazards) [ANSI Z35.2-
1974 was updated and combined into this standard in 1991]
ANSI Z535.6 Product Safety Information in Product Manuals, Instructions, and Other
Collateral Materials [new in 2006]
Together, these six standards contain the information needed to specify formats, colors, and symbols for
safety signs used in environmental and facility applications, product and product literature applications,
and temporary safety tag and barricade tape applications.
Published separately is the ANSI Z535 Safety Color Chart. This chart gives the user a sample of each of
the safety colors red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple, white, and black. It also describes each color’s
®
ink formulation and closest PANTONE color.
This ANSI Z535.1 standard was prepared by the Z535.1 Subcommittee on Safety Colors. The foreword
and all annexes are considered to be informative; the body is considered normative. In the vocabulary of
writing standards, the word “informative” is meant to convey that the content presented is for
informational purposes only and is not considered to be mandatory in nature. The word "normative" is
meant to convey that the content is considered to be mandatory or prescriptive.
The 2011 edition of this standard is the eighth revision of the American War Standard, developed at the
request of the War Department and approved by the American Standards Association (ASA) on July
16,1945. The ASA was reconstituted as the USA Standards Institute (USASI) in August 1966, and as the
American National Standards Institute (ANSI) in October 1969. Peacetime work on revising the American
War Standard containing the Safety Color Code began in 1946 under committee procedures of the ASA,
with the National Safety Council serving as sponsor of the project. The Sectional Committee on the
Safety Color Code, Z53, reviewed the War Standard and enlarged its application to include the colors
orange, blue, and purple. The committee also approved standard definitions and limits for the colors.
The revised standard was approved by the ASA on September 11, 1953. In the 1971 revision, the
Z53 committee deleted the color blue and modified the application of the color yellow, due to
conflicts with other American National Standards.

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In the fourth revision, a significant step forward was made toward increased safety through uniformity in
safety color coding. The safety colors formerly used in this standard were combined and adjusted to give
the best feasible discrimination for observers with either normal or color-deficient (colorblind) vision. For
the first time, safety color tolerance charts were available for use with this standard (see Section 8,
Reference 17). Each color tolerance chart shows the standard color and six color tolerances illustrating
acceptable ranges in hue, value (lightness), and chroma (saturation). Each color tolerance chart also lists
the Munsell notation and equivalent CIE specifications (x, y, Y) for each standard color and tolerance
sample. The colors brown, blue, and gray were added, and Table 1 was expanded to include the same
information on most of the levels of the Universal Color Language (UCL) for the tolerance samples as for
the standard or central sample of each Safety Color. Sections 1 to 6 of the present standard contain
material similar to the fourth revision (Z53.1, 1979).
The intent of the fifth revision (1991) of the safety color standard was to provide a series of visually
distinguishable safety colors, each with specific uses. The sixth revision in 1998 incorporated corrections
and additions that helped to clarify the use of the standard in conjunction with the other Z535 standards.
Annex A was also added at this time to explain how to relate the CIE safety color specifications contained
in Table 1 with the CIE chromaticity diagrams illustrated in Figures 1, 2, and 3.
The seventh revision of the ANSI Z535.1 Safety Color Code, in 2002, had two major changes. The first is
the deletion of information concerning the application of the safety colors. The intention in making this
change was to maintain Z535.1 as the standard that defines the safety colors in terms of their color
tolerances. The application of the colors (i.e., how they are to be used) properly belongs to the other
standards in the ANSI Z535 series as well as to other standards that include uses for safety colors. The
second change was to include the “closest PANTONE ® color” number for all of the safety colors on the
Safety Color Chart that did not have a PANTONE ® color reference. This was a practical addition that
makes it easier for those needing to specify a safety color using the PANTONE ® color matching system.
It is important to note that the color-rendering characteristics of several types of modern, high-efficiency
light sources differ markedly from those of the average daylight source (CIE Source C) specified in
Table 1. It is therefore essential that candidate safety colors be examined under the actual light sources to
be used in order to ensure that they can be suitably differentiated and individually identified with their
assigned color names.
The limited color gamut and aging characteristics of fluorescent colorants combine to restrict the number
and chromaticities of fluorescent safety colors. For this reason, categories of unrestricted red-orange and
unrestricted yellow fluorescent colors were added in 1998 to supplement the restricted specifications that
are equivalent to CIE international standards. The unrestricted specifications may be used when no more
than three distinguishable fluorescent safety colors are required for outdoor use for up to two years.
Recent research is providing conclusive evidence that highly chromatic colors, in some chromaticities,
serve to increase or decrease the perception of lightness (for reflective materials) and brightness (for self-
luminous objects). The effect is more dramatic in the case of colored lights and colored retroreflective
materials. Future revisions of this standard might consider opportunities for improving the visibility of
safety signs, colors, and symbols through the selective use of vividly colored retroreflectors as well as
include test methods and color specifications for retroreflective and self-luminous materials.
The 2006 version of this standard was nearly identical to the ANSI Z535.1-2002 version, with an updated
reference section and a new title, reflecting that the standard is meant to be used as a reference to define
specific colors, not to set forth or codify the uses of these colors for specific purposes.
In 2010, the Z535.1 Subcommittee reviewed ANSI Z535.1-2006 and, not identifying any technical
changes, recommended reaffirmation of the standard to the Z535 Committee. In its review, however, the
Z535.1 Subcommittee made the following corrections:
In Table 1, corrected the following for Safety Orange:
Value + changed from 5.0YR 6.0/15 to 5.0YR 6.5/15
Value – changed from 5.0YR 6.5/15 to 5.0YR 5.5/15
Chroma + changed from 5.0YR 5.5/15 to 5.0YR 6.0/16;

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 ANSI Z535.1-2016, v0.0

th
In Annex A, 6 paragraph, after "CIE 1931," replaced the box
symbol with a degree symbol;

In Figure 1, the centroid for each color was checked and relocated
as necessary.
In 2012, the Z535.1 Safety Colors subcommittee recommended that the entire standard be revised and
references to Hazardous Materials Label and Placard Color Tolerance Charts be minimized due to their
limited availability. These charts are no longer being produced or offered for sale, but are on
display in the Office of Hazardous Materials Safety, Office of Hazardous Materials Standards,
Washington, DC.
ANSI Z535.1 Safety Colors is harmonizing with the Code of Federal Regulations. Tables 1, 2, and 3 from
Title 49 Transportation, §172.407, Appendix A will replace Table 1 in the Z535.1 standard. Tables 2 and 3
allow for differences in production methods and will help to ensure safety colors remain within their
recommended tolerances. The Munsell Notations and chromaticity coordinates are identical in both the
CFR Table 1, and ANSI Z535.1, the exception is how color is described. The new Table 1 is more
understandable to persons unfamiliar with the Munsell Color System. An adjustment was made to the new
Table 1 to include the original Munsell description of hue, value, and chroma into the Munsell Notation
column.
The normative body of the standard has been simplified and designed as a tool for specifying safety
colors consistently. Definitions or terms have been included so readers have a basic understanding to
references made within the standard. More emphasis has been placed on what can affect a safety colors
appearance and cause it to fall outside the acceptable tolerance limits rather than the technical
measurement of safety colors which is beyond the scope of this standard. Fluorescent safety color
information has been updated and expanded.
Realizing the need to make this standard more user friendly and understandable several new Annexes
have been added. Annex A clarifies the color boundaries for Safety Yellow. Annex B illustrates ANSI safety
color boundaries and ISO safety colour boundaries together on a chromaticity diagram so one can see
where ANSI safety colors plot in comparison to ISO safety colours. Annex C contains a color cross-
reference chart which includes the Munsell notation, a PANTONE ® number, C-M-Y-K percentages, and a
RGB formula for each safety color. To harmonize with ISO, Annex D has been added, ISO safety colours
and contrast colors of ordinary materials is shown in Table D-1. Annex E illustrates the Munsell Hue Circle
and provides a visual detail of Hue, Value, and Chroma.
Safety Gray and Safety Brown have been eliminated from Table 1. These colors are in use by other
signage systems, but are not considered as hazard alerting colors for accident prevention. The
PANTONE® colors originally specified for the Safety Color Chart have been changed to harmonize with
the PANTONE ® colors specified in the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 49 Transportation, §
172.407, section 5.
The following color standards in the PANTONE® formula guide coated/uncoated may be used to achieve
the required colors on markings and hazard warning labels and placards:

For Red — Use PANTONE® 186 U

For Orange — Use PANTONE® 151 U
For Yellow — Use PANTONE® 109 U
For Green — Use PANTONE® 335 U
For Blue — Use PANTONE® 285 U
For Purple — Use PANTONE® 259 U
The original PANTONE® colors referenced on the 2011 Safety Color Chart are acceptable for use as
these colors are within safety color tolerances given in Table 1. Specification of the PANTONE ® colors

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7
Geoffrey Peckham, Chair
J. Paul Frantz, Vice Chair
Greg Winchester, Secretary

Organization Represented: Name of Representative:

listed above will be

American Society of Safety Engineers J. Paul Frantz
Thomas F. Breshnahan (Alt.)
Timothy Rhoades (Alt.)
American Welding Society August F. Manz
encouraged as they will
replace the original
PANTONE® colors on
the 2011 Safety Color
Chart.

Applied Materials Carl Wong

Proposals for
Applied Safety and Ergonomics Steve Hall improvement of this
Stephen Young (Alt.) standard are welcome.
Information concerning
Association for Manufacturing Technology David Felinski submittal of proposals
to the ANSI Z535
Association of Equipment Manufacturers Michael Weber Committee for
Daniel Taylor (Alt.) consideration can be
found at the back of this
Browning Arms Company Larry D. Nelson standard.
This standard was
Caterpillar, Inc. Charles Crowell processed and
Mark Steffen (Alt.) approved for submittal
to ANSI by the
Clarion Safety Systems, LLC Geoffrey Peckham Accredited Standards
Phillip Peckham (Alt.) Committee Z535 on
Safety Signs and
Dorris and Associates International, LLC Nathan T. Dorris Colors. Committee
Eric Boelhouwer (Alt.) approval of this
Alan L. Dorris (Alt.) standard does not
necessarily imply that
all committee members
Eagle Crusher Co. Ryan Parsell
voted for its approval At
the time it reaffirmed
Edison Electric Institute David Young this standard, the Z535
Committee had the
Human Factors & Ergonomics Society Michael Kalsher following members:
H. Harvey Cohen (Alt.)

Human Factors & Safety Analytics, Inc. B. Jay Martin At the time it prepared
this standard for Z535
IEEE Sue Vogel Committee vote,
Subcommittee Z535.1
International Safety Equipment Association Christine Fargo on Safety Colors had
the following members:
International Staple, Nail, and Tool John W. Kurtz
Association Thomas Siwek (Alt.) Donna Ehrmann,
Chair
Law Office of Mathew Kundinger Mathew Kundinger Greg Winchester,
Secretary
Marhefka & Associates Russell E. Marhefka
Donna Ehrmann
National
National Association of Graphic and Product Russ Butchko Association of Graphic
Identification Manufacturers Donna Ehrmann (Alt.) and Product
Identification
National Electrical Manufacturers Association Bill Pratt Manufacturers
David Werba (Alt.)
8National Marker Company Michael Black DRAFT – Do not quote or circulate without
permission. Alice Campbell (Alt.)
Marianne Pepin (Alt.)
 ANSI Z535.1-2016, v0.0

Judi Isaacson Applied Safety and Ergonomics

Mike Kalsher Human Factors and Ergonomics Society
Karen Stetler Travelers Insurance

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AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARD ANSI Z535.1-2016

For Safety Colors

1 Introduction
Safety colors used on signs, labels, tags, or safety markings for emergency equipment often suffer from a
lack of uniformity. Inconsistent safety colors can send mixed messages as to their meaning. As a result,
employees who move from workplace to workplace may be confused during times of an emergency when
real viewing conditions can rapidly change, and risk of injury increases.
Safety colors are effective tools that supplement a word message, thus, they need to be consistent so
their meaning is instantly recognized, and immediate action can be taken to prevent harm.
Standardized safety colors eliminate the need for lengthy descriptions about existing hazards, and
facilitate communication when an emergency arises. Safety colors do not replace proper training in
accident prevention. Employees need to be informed as to the meaning of each safety color and what
actions are required to avoid the hazard and potential harm.
The safety colors specified in ANSI Z535.1, are the same as those used by:
ANSI Z535.2 Environmental and Facility Safety Signs,
ANSI Z535.3 Criteria for Safety Symbols,
ANSI Z535.4 Product Safety Signs and Labels,
ANSI Z535.5 Accident Prevention Tags (for Temporary Hazards),
ANSI Z535..6 Product Safety Information in Product Manuals and Instructions and Other Collateral
Materials

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2 Scope and purpose

2.1 Scope
This scope provides a system for specifying safety colors, in terms of Munsell notations, CIE colorimetric
data, defined chromaticity regions, and color formulas for each safety color used on safety signs, labels,
and tags.
2.2 Purpose
The purposes of this standard is to:
a. implement a uniform system for specifying safety colors
b. include safety color formulas for a variety of applications and media, (Annex C),
c. harmonize with safety colors specified in the Code of Federal Regulations, 49 CFR, §172.407
(Subpart E), (Tables 1-3), 49 CFR, §172.407 Label Specifications (5).
d. harmonize with ISO 3864-4, Graphical symbols — Safety colours and safety signs — Part 4:
Colorimetric and photometric properties of safety sign materials, (Annex D).
2.2.1 Existing American National Standards
There are a number of existing American National Standards, which are recognized for particular
industries or specific uses. Compliance with these standards may be considered for the particular industry
or use. It is not the intent of ANSI Z535.1 Safety Colors to replace existing standards or regulations, which
are uniquely applicable to a specific industry or use.

3 Application and exceptions

3.1 Applications
This standard sets forth Munsell notations, CIE coordinates, and color formulas for each safety color to
facilitate designers and producers of safety signs, labels, and tags. These colors are prescribed for a wide
range of materials as possible, and allow for differences in production methods and viewing conditions.
Safety colors not conforming to their Munsell notations or CIE coordinates in Tables 1, 2, and 3, or color
formulas in Annex C, should not be used for safety signs, labels, and tags.
3.2 Exceptions
3.2.1 Should any of the requirements of this standard conflict with federal, state, or municipal
regulations such conflicts shall not invalidate other sections of this standard.
3.2.2 Safety color formulas and CIE color measurements in this standard are not applicable to self-
luminous signs, phosphorescent materials, or signs requiring an artificial light source. Safety color
formulas and CIE data in this standard apply to safety signs, labels and tags, comprised of ordinary
materials, viewed in an environment with normal lighting or natural daylight.
3.2.3 It is beyond the scope of this standard to define procedures for color measurement or color
testing.
3.2.4 It is beyond the scope of this standard to address safety sign, label, or tag substrates.
3.2.5 The colors displayed in this standard are for illustrative purposes only, and are not to be used for
color matching.

4 Specifications

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4.1 General
Safety color specifications are in terms of a Munsell notation and the CIE 1931 standard colorimetric
observer (2 degree) equivalent data.
4.2 Testing specifications
If a visual judgment indicates the safety color may be outside allowable tolerances listed in Tables 1, 2
and 3, a spectrophotometer or other instrumentation may be required to ensure compliance. When testing
ordinary safety colors, the chromaticity coordinates for each safety color shall fall within the relevant color
boundary illustrated in Figure 2. To instrumentally test an ordinary safety color, compute the data using
the daylight simulator, Illuminant C, and the CIE 1931 standard colorimetric observer (2 degree).

5 Terms and definitions

These technical terms for describing and understanding color measurements are not formal definitions,
but are meant to provide basic understanding of color references applicable to this standard.
5.1 boundary: A color region's x, and y chromaticity coordinates on the CIE (2 degree)
chromaticity diagram. A color’s boundary is the limit for that color.
5.2 chroma: The attribute of a visual sensation, which permits a judgment to be made of the
degree to which a chromatic stimulus differs from an "achromatic" stimulus of the same brightness. [ 1 ]
5.3 chromaticity coordinates: All visible colors can be specified by their chromaticity coordinates
on a two dimensional plane. Chromaticity coordinates are: x = X / (X + Y + Z), y = Y / (X + Y + Z), z
= Z / (X + Y + Z. These are mathematically defined values from equations that simulate the sensitivity
of the three cones in the human retina, and how color is perceived. Chromaticity coordinates specify a
color's hue (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, violet), and a color’s saturation (light green, or dark
red).
5.4 CIE chromaticity diagram: A color map, which the chromaticity of all spectral colors visible to
the human eye, mathematically plotted with x as abscissa, and y as ordinate. Wavelengths ( λ ) are
indicated in nanometers along the curved boundary called the spectrum locus, the line of purples join
the two points. The CIE diagram removes all intensity information, and uses its two dimensions to
describe hue and saturation. It is a world wide standard for describing colors and color gamut, and for
doing calculations of color sensations. [ 2 ] The CIE chromaticity diagram is also specified in CIE 15:
2004 as the CIE ( x, y ) diagram.
5.5 CIE colorimetric system: A system that provides numerical specifications that are meant to
indicate whether or not pairs of color stimuli match when viewed by a CIE standard colorimetric observer.
The CIE color system is not intended to provide visually uniform scales of color difference or to describe
visually perceived color appearances. [ 3 ]
5.6 CIE Commission Internationale de l'Éclairage: The International Commission on Light. It is
the worldwide standardizing organization for Photometry and Colorimetry. The CIE system has
standardized how color is perceived by establishing viewing geometry, the illuminant or source, and the
observer.
5.7 CIE Illuminant C: Colorimetric illuminant representing average daylight, bluish in color, with a
correlated color temperature of 6774K. This illuminant does not adequately represent the ultraviolet
region in the spectral distribution of daylight necessary for evaluating fluorescent samples. Illuminant C
does not have the status of a CIE Standard Illuminant, but is still widely used because calculations still
use this illuminant. [ 4 ]
5.8 CIE Standard Illuminant D65: The most commonly used illuminant, having a correlated color
temperature of 6504 K, close to Illuminant C, with a spectral distribution in the ultraviolet region that
plays an important role in the colorimetry of fluorescent colors, based on actual measurements of the
spectral distribution of average daylight. [ 5 ] CIE recommends this standard illuminant be used whenever
possible.

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 ANSI Z535.1-2016, v0.0

5.9 CIE Standard Colorimetric Observer (2 degree): An "idealized" observer representing an

average population with normal color vision, having the skill to consistently match color, and able to
distinguish color differences. A 2 degree field of view was chosen to stimulate the color receptors
(cones) concentrated in the fovea, a small area in the center of the retina. The “standard observer”
needs to be specified when performing color calculations.
5.10 hue: An attribute of the human visual system by which an object appears to be red, yellow,
green, blue, or purple, the five principal hues defined by Munsell.
5.11 Munsell Color Order System: Developed by Albert H. Munsell in the early part of the twentieth
century. The appearance of color is based on perceptual scaling of three attributes: hue, value, and
chroma. A Munsell notation is written as a combination of letters and numbers by which the color of
an opaque object may be specified by Munsell hue H, Munsell value V, and Munsell chroma C, written
as H V/C.
5.12 normal vision: A person having three functioning color receptors (cones), located in the center
of the retina responsible for color vision.
5.13 tristimulus values: Amounts of three primaries (lights) required to match a perceivable hue,
represented by three parameters X, Y, and Z. Values are calculated by integrating the spectral
power distribution of the illuminant.
5.14 value: A color's lightness or darkness on a scale from 0 (absolute black) to 10 (pure white). Value
can apply to hues (colors) as well as achromatic (neutral) colors.

6 Safety Colors
6.1 Safety colors - ordinary surface colors
Safety colors in this standard have been chosen for maximum color recognition by observers with normal
color vision, and those with color vision deficiencies. These safety colors are ordinary opaque surface
colors, they are neither fluorescent or phosphorescent, see Table 1.
6.2 Safety white
The specification for safety white is written as N 9/. Absolute white has a neutral value of N 10/. “N”
represents the neutral value, or gray scale in the Munsell system. The intent of the permissible color
range shown in Table 6 is to allow for greater deviation from neutral white in the red-to-orange-to-yellow
hue range, and lesser deviation in the rest of the hue circle. This deviation is necessary because most
white colorants are really off-whites in the red-to-yellow range. Users should be guided by the ovoid
shown in Figure 3, and CIE data in Table 6.
6.3 Safety black
The specification for safety black is written as N 1.5/. The neutral value for absolute black is N 0/. It is
acceptable for this neutral value to be lower (darker) than N 1.5/. Users should be guided by the ovoid
shown in Figure 3, and CIE data in Table 6. When using safety black, it is important not to exceed the
luminance percentage (Y%) given in Table 6.
6.4 Daylight fluorescent safety colors
These colors may be required for special applications where ordinary safety colors lack the high visibility
that may be necessary. Fluorescent colorants are best know for their brilliance and their facility for
obtaining higher chroma and lightness than non-fluorescent colorants. The color of fluorescent materials
depends upon the quality of the illumination under which it is observed. The individual spectral
excitation is a function of the colorant's chemical structure. Although each colorant has its own

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excitation spectrum, many fluorescent colorants are excited by invisible ultraviolet radiation to produce
emission spectra in the visible region. In addition, a number of violet and blue colorants are excited by
visible light to give near infra-red energy which is not seen by human observers. [ 6 ]
Using modern technology it is now possible to produce materials with fluorescent color stability
approaching that of conventional colors. Fluorescent materials are now available that maintain their
chromaticity and high level of fluorescent emission after years of exposure in severe climates. The end
result is a redefinition of the contribution fluorescent materials can make towards improving the visibility
and conspicuity of signing and markings. Given today’s visually complex environments, one can expect
increasing use of fluorescent materials for visual signalling, especially for critical safety applications such
as traffic control signing, warning clothing for pedestrian visibility enhancement and industrial work place
signing. [ 7 ]
Precise measurement of ultraviolet-activated fluorescent specimens requires the instrument provide
broadband illumination intensity from 300 to 780 nm, and the spectral distribution of the illumination on
the specimen should closely duplicate CIE Standard Illuminant D65. When highest measurement
precision and reproducibility are required, the wavelength range should extend from 300 to 830nm. [ 8 ]
Special care may be needed if fluorescent and non-fluorescent safety colors of the same chromaticity are
chosen to be used together, as different deteriorations might produce dissimilarities of the chromaticities. [ 9 ]
See Figure 1 for fluorescent safety color boundaries, and Tables 4 - 5 for chromaticity coordinates.

7 Optimum visibility
It is important to examine the relationship of safety colors and their surrounding field to ensure optimum
visibility, especially lightness contrast. There should be sufficient contrast between the safety color and its
surround so it appears distinct and its hazard level is immediately recognized. Study the placement of
safety markings and minimize the number of signs used, too many colors appearing simultaneously in the
visual field can lead to confusion in the event of an emergency.

8 Surface finish
Careful consideration should be given to any protective surface applied to a safety sign such as a clear
overcoat or transparent film. A glossy protective surface will saturate the safety color, and reflected light
can alter the appearance of the safety color. A matte protective surface will de-saturate the safety color
increasing the luminance percentage (Y%), and it could cause it to fall outside the safety color’s allowable
tolerance limit. If a protective surface is applied to the safety color it should be measured to insure it is
within recommended tolerances given in Tables 1, 2, or 3.

9 External illumination of safety colors

Safety colors should be distinguishable when viewed under normal lighting conditions, within reason.
Safety colors shall be illuminated to levels, which permit positive identification of the safety color and the
message conveyed by that color.
If, however, the illumination is from daylight in one of its usual phases (direct sunlight, overcast sky, etc.),
or from incandescent tungsten-filament lamps, or from white fluorescent lamps of good color-rendering
properties, then, since the eye of the observer will undergo rapid chromatic adaptation to these
illuminants, the colors will retain sufficient constancy of appearance for most practical purposes, even
though the measured chromaticities have moved outside the recommended limits. Such changes are
acceptable, since the message of the color-coding is preserved. [10 ]

10 Safety color stability

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Deterioration of surface colors in use is a common occurrence, and care must be taken that safety colors
always remain in compliance with their specifications. Particular attention should be given to fluorescent
colors, as they are liable to undergo rapid changes in chromaticity and luminance factor on exposure to
radiation and wear if they are not provided with special protective surfaces. Frequent inspections of
fluorescent colors are advised until the normal useful life has been confidently ascertained for each typical
situation where these colors are used. [ 11 ]

11 Tables and Figures

The following are Munsell notations and Commission Internationale de L’Eclairage (CIE) coordinates which
describe the Office of Hazardous Materials Transportation Label and Placard Color Tolerance Charts in Tables
1 and 2, and the CIE coordinates for the color tolerances specified in Table 3. Central Colors and tolerances
described in Table 2 approximate those described in Table 1 while allowing for differences in production
methods and materials used to manufacture labels and placards surfaced with printing inks. Primarily, the color
charts based on Table 1 are for label or placard colors applied as opaque coatings such as paint, enamel or
plastic, whereas color charts based on Table 2 are intended for use with labels and placards surfaced only with
inks. For labels printed directly on packaging surfaces, Table 3 may be used, although compliance with either
Table 1 or Table 2 is sufficient. However, if visual reference indicates that the colors of labels printed directly on
package surfaces are outside the Table 1 or 2 tolerances, a spectrophotometer or other instrumentation may be
required to insure compliance with Table 3. [12]

Table 1
Specifications for Color Tolerance Charts for use with Labels and Placards
Surfaced with Paint, Lacquer, Enamel, Plastic, other Opaque Coatings, or Ink 1
(Appendix A to §172 – Office of Hazardous Materials Transportation
Color Tolerance Charts and Tables)

CIE Data for Source C

Color Munsell Notation Y% x y

SAFETY RED
Central color 7.5R 4.0/14 Std. 12.00 .5959 .3269
Orange 8.5R 4.0/14 Hue + 12.00 .6037 .3389
Purple and vivid 6.5R 4.0/14 Hue - 12.00 .5869 .3184
Grayish 7.5R 4.0/12 Chroma - 12.00 .5603 .3321
Vivid 7.5R 4.0/16 Chroma 12.00 .6260 .3192
Light + 15.57 .5775 .3320
Dark 7.5R 4.5/14 Value + 09.00 .6226 .3141
7.5R 3.5/14 Value -

SAFETY ORANGE
Central color 5.0YR 6.0/15 Std. 30.05 .5510 .4214
Yellow and grayish 6.25YR 6.0/15 Hue + 30.05 .5452 .4329
Red and vivid 3.75YR 6.0/15 Hue - 30.05 .5552 .4091
Grayish 5.0YR 6.0/13 Chroma - 30.05 .5311 .4154
Vivid 5.0YR 6.0/16 Chroma 30.05 .5597 .4239
Light + 36.20 .5427 .4206
Dark 5.0YR 6.5/15 Value + 24.58 .5606 .4218
5.0YR 5.5/15 Value -

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 SAFETY YELLOW
Central color 5.0Y 8.0/12 Std. 59.10 .4562 .4788
Green 6.5Y 8.0/12 Hue + 59.10 .4498 .4865
Orange and vivid 3.5Y 8.0/12 Hue - 59.10 .4632 .4669
Grayish 5.0Y 8.0/10 Chroma - 59.10 .4376 .4601
Vivid 5.0Y 8.0/14 Chroma 59.10 .4699 .4920
Light + 68.40 .4508 .4754
Dark 5.0Y 8.5/12 Value + 50.68 .4620 .4823
5.0Y 7.5/12 Value -

SAFETY GREEN
Central color 7.5G 4.0/9 Std. 12.00 .2111 .4121
Bluish 0.5BG 4.0/9 Hue + 12.00 .1974 .3809
Green-yellow 5.0G 4.0/9 Hue - 12.00 .2237 .4399
Grayish A 7.5G 4.0/7 Chroma - 12.00 .2350 .3922
Grayish B 2 7.5G 4.0/6 Chroma - 2 12.00 .2467 .3822
Vivid 7.5G 4.0/11 Chroma + 12.00 .1848 .4319
Light 7.5G 4.5/9 Value + 15.57 .2204 .4060
Dark 7.5G 3.5/9 Value - 09.00 .2027 .4163

SAFETY BLUE
Central color 2.5PB 3.5/10 Std. 09.00 .1691 .1744
Purple 4.5PG 3.5/10 Hue + 09.00 .1796 .1711
Green and vivid 10.0B 3.5/10 Hue - 09.00 .1557 .1815
Grayish 2.5PB 3.5/8 Chroma - 09.00 .1888 .1964
Vivid 2.5PB 3.5/12 Chroma + 09.00 .1516 .1547
Light 2.5PB 4.0/10 Value - 12.00 .1805 .1888
Dark 2.5PB 3.0/10 Value + 06.55 .1576 .1800

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Table 1 – continued
Specifications for Color Tolerance Charts for use with Labels and Placards
Surfaced with Paint, Lacquer, Enamel, Plastic, other Opaque Coatings, or Ink 1

CIE Data for Source C

Color Munsell Notation Y% x y

SAFETY PURPLE
Central color 10.0P 4.5/10 Std. 15.57 .3307 .2245
Reddish purple 2.5RP 4.5/10 Hue + 15.57 .3584 .2377
Blue purple 7.5P 4.5/10 Hue - 15.57 .3068 .2145
Reddish gray 10.0P 4.5/8 Chroma - 15.57 .3280 .2391
Gray 2 10.0P 4.5/6.5 Chroma - 2 15.57 .3254 .2519
Vivid 10.0P 4.5/12 Chroma + 15.57 .3333 .2101
Light 10.0P 5.0/10 Value + 19.77 .3308 .2328
Dark 10.0P 4.0/10 Value - 12.00 .3306 .2162

1
Maximum chroma is not limited.
2
For the colors green and purple, the minimum saturation (chroma) limits for porcelain enamel on metal are lower than
for most other surface coatings. Therefore, the minimum chroma limits of these two colors are displayed on the Charts
for comparison to porcelain enamel on metal is low, as shown for green (grayish B) and purple (gray).

NOTE: CIE – Commission Internationale de L’Eclairage.

Table 2
Specifications for Color Tolerance Charts for Use with Labels and Placards Surfaced with Ink

CIE Data for Source C

Color Munsell Notation Y% x y

SAFETY RED
Central series:
Central color 6.8R 4.47/12.8 15.34 .5510 .3286
Grayish 7.2R 4.72/12.2 17.37 .5368 .3348
Purple 6.4R 4.49/12.7 15.52 .5442 .3258
Purple and vivid 6.1R 4.33/13.1 14.25 .5529 .3209
Vivid 6.7R 4.29/13.2 13.99 .5617 .3253
Orange 7.3R 4.47/12.8 15.34 .5572 .3331
Orange and grayish 7.65R 4.70/12.4 17.20 .5438 .3382
Light series:
Light 7.0R 4.72/13.2 17.32 .5511 .3322
Light and orange 7.4R 4.96/12.6 19.38 .5365 .3382
Light and purple 6.6R 4.79/12.9 17.94 .5397 .3289
Dark series:
Dark A 6.7R 4.19/12.5 13.30 .5566 .3265
Dark B 7.0R 4.25/12.35 13.72 .5522 .3294
Dark and purple 7.5R 4.23/12.4 13.58 .5577 .3329

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 Table 2 – continued
Specifications for Color Tolerance Charts for Use with Labels and Placards Surfaced with Ink

CIE Data for Source C

Color Munsell Notation Y% x y

SAFETY ORANGE
Central series:
Central color 5.0YR 6.10/12.15 31.27 .5193 .4117
Yellow and grayish A 5.8YR 6.22/11.7 32.69 .5114 .4155
Yellow and grayish B 6.1YR 6.26/11.85 33.20 .5109 .4190
Vivid 5.1YR 6.07/12.3 30.86 .5226 .4134
Red and vivid A 3.9YR 5.87/12.75 28.53 .5318 .4038
Red and vivid B 3.6YR 5.91/12.6 29.05 .5291 .4021
Grayish 4.9YR 6.10/11.9 31.22 .5170 .4089
Light series:
Light and vivid A 5.8YR 6.78/12.7 39.94 .5120 .4177
Light and yellow 6.0YR 6.80/12.8 40.20 .5135 .4198
Light and vivid B 4.9YR 6.60/12.9 37.47 .5216 .4126
Dark series:
Dark and yellow 5.8YR 5.98/11.0 29.87 .5052 .4132
Dark A 5.1YR 5.80/11.1 27.80 .5127 .4094
Dark B 5.0YR 5.80/11.0 27.67 .5109 .4068

SAFETY YELLOW
Central series:
Central color 4.3Y 7.87/10.3 56.81 .4445 .4589
Vivid A 4.5Y 7.82/10.8 55.92 .4503 .4658
Vivid B 3.3Y 7.72/11.35 54.24 .4612 .4624
Vivid and orange 3.2Y 7.72/10.8 54.25 .4576 .4572
Grayish A 4.1Y 7.95/9.7 58.18 .4380 .4516
Grayish B 5.1Y 8.06/9.05 60.12 .4272 .4508
Green-yellow 5.2Y 7.97/9.9 58.53 .4356 .4605
Light series:
Light 5.4Y 8.59/10.5 70.19 .4351 .4628
Light and green-yellow 5.4Y 8.56/11.2 69.59 .4414 .4692
Light and vivid 4.4Y 8.45/11.4 67.42 .4490 .4662
Dark series:
Dark and green-yellow 4.4Y 7.57/9.7 51.82 .4423 .4562
Dark and orange A 3.4Y 7.39/10.4 48.86 .4584 .4590
Dark and orange B 3.5Y 7.41/10.0 49.20 .4517 .4544

SAFETY GREEN
Central series:
Central color 9.75G 4.26/7.75 13.80 .2214 .3791
Grayish 10.0G 4.46/7.5 15.25 .2263 .3742
Blue A 1.4BG 4.20/7.4 13.36 .2151 .3625
Blue B 1.0BG 4.09/7.75 12.60 .2109 .3685
Vivid 8.4G 4.09/8.05 12.59 .2183 .3954
Vivid green-yellow 7.0G 4.23/8.0 13.54 .2292 .4045
Green-yellow 7.85G 4.46/7.7 15.23 .2313 .3914
Light series:
Light and vivid 9.5G 4.45/8.8 15.21 .2141 .3863
Light and blue 0.2BG 4.31/8.8 14.12 .2069 .3814
Light and green-yellow 8.3G 4.29/9.05 14.01 .2313 .4006
Dark series:
Dark and green-yellow 7.1G 4.08/7.1 12.55 .2354 .3972
Dark and grayish 9.5G 4.11/6.9 12.70 .2282 .3764
Dark 8.5G 3.97/7.2 11.78 .2269 .3874

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Table 2 – continued
Specifications for Color Tolerance Charts for Use with Labels and Placards Surfaced with Ink

CIE Data for Source C

Color Munsell Notation Y% x y

SAFETY BLUE
Central series:
Central color 3.5PB 3.94/9.7 11.58 .1885 .1911
Green and grayish A 2.0PB 4.35/8.7 14.41 .1962 .2099
Green and grayish B 1.7PB 4.22/9.0 13.50 .1898 .2053
Vivid 2.9PB 3.81/9.7 10.78 .1814 .1852
Purple and vivid A 4.7PB 3.53/10.0 09.15 .1817 .1727
Purple and vivid B 5.0PB 3.71/9.9 10.20 .1888 .1788
Grayish 3.75PB 4.03/9.1 12.17 .1943 .1961
Light series:
Light and green A 1.7PB 4.32/9.2 14.22 .1904 .2056
Light and green B 1.5PB 4.11/9.6 12.72 .1815 .1971
Light and vivid 3.2PB 3.95/10.05 11.70 .1831 .1868
Dark series:
Dark and grayish 3.9PB 4.01/8.7 12.04 .1982 .1992
Dark and purple A 4.8PB 3.67/9.3 09.95 .1918 .1831
Dark and purple B 5.2PB 3.80/9.05 10.76 .1985 .1885

SAFETY PURPLE
Central series:
Central color 9.5P 4.71/11.3 17.25 .3274 .2165
Red 1.0RP 5.31/10.8 22.70 .3404 .2354
Red and vivid A 1.4RP 5.00/11.9 19.78 .3500 .2274
Red and vivid B 0.2RP 4.39/12.5 14.70 .3365 .2059
Vivid 8.0P 4.04/12.0 12.23 .3098 .1916
Blue 7.0P 4.39/10.8 14.71 .3007 .2037
Grayish 8.8P 5.00/10.3 19.73 .3191 .2251
Light series:
Light and red A 0.85RP 5.56/11.1 25.18 .3387 .2356
Light and red B 1.1RP 5.27/12.3 22.72 .3460 .2276
Light and vivid 9.2P 4.94/11.95 19.24 .3247 .2163
Dark series:
Dark and grayish 9.6P 4.70/10.9 17.19 .3283 .2204
Dark and vivid 8.4P 4.05/11.6 12.35 .3144 .1970
Dark and blue 7.5P 4.32/10.5 14.19 .3059 .2078

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 Table 3
Specification for Colors for Use with Labels Printed on Packaging Surfaces

CIE data for source C Red Orange Yellow Green Blue Purple
x .424 .460 .417 .228 .200 .377
y .306 .370 .392 .354 .175 .205
x .571 .543 .490 .310 .255 .377
y .306 .400 .442 .354 .250 .284
x .424 .445 .390 .228 .177 .342
y .350 .395 .430 .403 .194 .205
x .571 .504 .440 .310 .230 .342
y .350 .430 .492 .403 .267 .284

Y% (high) 23.0 41.6 72.6 20.6 15.9 21.2

Y% (low) 7.7 19.5 29.1 7.4 6.5 8.2
[Amdt. 172-50, 44 FR 9757, Feb. 15, 1979; Amdt. 172-50, 44 FR 10984, Feb. 26, 1979, as amended
by Amdt. 172-50, 44 FR 22467, Apr. 16, 1979; 50 FR 45731, Nov. 1, 1985; Amdt. 172-127, 59 FR 49133,
Sept. 26, 1994]

Table 4
Specification for Fluorescent Safety Colors
Recommended Limits of Fluorescent Colors in Terms of CIE Recommendations No. 39-2, 1983
for Surface Colors for Visual Signalling

Minimum
Minimum
Equation of the Spectral Wavelength
Color Boundary Luminanc
Boundary Limits Radiance Range (nm)
e Factor
Factor %
Purple y = 0.345 - 0.051 x
Restricted
White y = 0.910 - x
Red 0.25 -- --
Orange y = 0.314 + 0.390 x

Red y = 0.265 + 0.205 x

Restricted
White y = 0.910 - x
Orange 0.40 -- --
Yellow y = 0.207 + 0.390 x

Purple y = 0.345 - 0.051 x

Unrestricted
White y = 0.910 - x
Red-Orange -- 100 600-630
Yellow y = 0.207 + 0.390 x

Orange y = 0.108 + 0.707 x

Restricted
White y = 0.910 - x
Yellow 0.60 -- --
Green y = 1.35 x - 0.093

Orange y = 0.108 + 0.707 x

Unrestricted
White y = 0.697 - 0.547 x
Yellow -- 100 520-540
Green y = 1.667 x – 0.100

Yellow y = 0.313
Green White y = 0.243 + 0.670 x
0.25 30 510-530
Blue y = 0.493 - 0.524 x

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Table 5
(x, y) Chromaticity coordinates of the corners of the recommended limits for fluorescent safety
colors specified in Table 4, in terms of the CIE 1931 Standard Colorimetric System, measured with
45/0 geometry, and evaluation with CIE Standard Illuminant D65

1 2 3 4
Color
x y x y x y x y

Restricted Red 0.690 0.310 0.595 0.315 0.569 0.341 0.655 0.345

Restricted Orange 0.610 0.390 0.535 0.375 0.506 0.404 0.570 0.429

Unrestricted Red-Orange 0.690 0.310 0.595 0.315 0.506 0.404 0.570 0.429

Restricted Yellow 0.522 0.477 0.470 0.440 0.427 0.483 0.465 0.534

Unrestricted Yellow 0.522 0.477 0.470 0.440 0.360 0.500 0.412 0.587

Green 0.313 0.682 0.313 0.453 0.209 0.383 0.013 0.486

Table 6
Specifications for Safety White and Safety Black

Munsell Notation CIE Data for source C

Standard and
Color Specifications
Tolerances
Hue Value / Chroma Y% x y

Safety White Standard N9.0 / 78.66 0.3101 0.3163

Hue + - -
Hue - - -
Value + N9.5 / 90.01 - -
Value - N8.75 / 73.40 - -
Chroma + /1.0(5R-5Y) - -
/0.5(5G-5P) - -
Chroma /0.0 - -

Safety Black Standard N1.5 / 2.02 0.3101 0.3163

Hue + - -
Hue - - -
Value ++ N2.5 /1 4.61 - -
Value + N2.0 / 3.13 - -
Value - N0.5 / 0.58 - -
Chroma + /0.5 - -
Chroma /0.0 - -
1
V++ for matte Safety Black only. For the purposes of this standard, matte is defined by ASTM D523, Standard Test
Method for Specular Gloss, as having a 60° (angle of reflection) gloss value of less than 30%.

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Two sets of specifications are provided (Table 4). Those designated “restricted” are identical with the current CIE
Recommendations No. 39-2, 1983, for Surface Colors for Visual Signalling. They should be used when the primary
consideration is the differentiation among the three fluorescent colors: red, orange, and yellow, used together in a
single system. The designation “unrestricted” should be used when the primary consideration is the differentiation
between only yellow and red-orange fluorescent colors, but it is required that these colors remain distinguishable for
an extended period of time.
Figure 1
Section of the CIE 1931 Chromaticity Diagram Showing Green, Yellow-to-Red Region, and
Chromaticity Specification Boundaries for ANSI Z535.1 Fluorescent Safety Colors

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 ANSI Z535.1-2016, v0.0

The solid circle inside each color region identifies the standard for that safety color.
*See Figure 3 for ANSI neutral limit regions.
Figure 2
CIE 1931 Chromaticity Diagram of Color Regions for ANSI Z535.1 Safety Colors

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14
The position of black on the chromaticity diagram: As one varies the total intensity of a light beam, its chromaticity
coordinates stay fixed but its “brightness" changes. One can do this for all the colors on the diagram at once by watching
the diagram as its brightness is changed continuously. The diagrams would all have identical shapes and boundaries but
the labels we place on the diagram would vary from diagram to diagram. Thus, for example, as intensity decreased the
white point on the diagram would turn from white to light grey to dark grey and finally to black. The latter color, black, is
the total absence of light, so it corresponds to zero intensity and a totally black diagram. Black has no x and y
coordinates, X=Y=Z+0. [13]
Figure 3
Enlarged View of the CIE 1931 Chromaticity Diagram Showing
Neutral Limits for Safety White and Safety Black

12 Normative References
[ 1] Wyszecki, G., Stiles W.S., Color Science: Concepts and Methods, Quantitative Data and
Formulae, 2nd Ed., (1982) John Wiley & Sons, p. 487
[ 2] Fortner, B., Meyer, T. E., Number By Colors, A Guide to Using Color To Understand Technical
Data, (1997) Springer-Verlag, p.16
[ 3] ASTM E308-08, Standard Practice for Computing the Colors of Objects by Using the CIE
System, 5., p.4
[ 4] CIE 15: Technical Report, Colorimetry, 3rd Edition, p. 4 REQUEST PERMISSION TO USE THIS
[ 5] Wyszecki, G., Stiles W.S., Color Science: Concepts and Methods, Quantitative Data and
Formulae, 2nd Ed., (1982) John Wiley & Sons, p. 144
[ 6] CIE Technical Report CIE 18, Calibration Methods and Photo-luminescent Standards for Total
Radiance Factor Measurements (2007), 2.2, p. 6 REQUEST PERMISSION TO USE THIS
[ 7] CIE Technical Report CIE 18, Calibration Methods and Photo-luminescent Standards for Total
Radiance Factor Measurements (2007), 2.3, p.8 REQUEST PERMISSION TO USE THIS
[ 8] ASTM E991-06, Standard Practice for Color Measurement of Fluorescent Specimens Using the
One-Monochromator Method 1, 4.2, p. 2
[ 9] IALA Recommendation E-108 on The Surface Colours used as Visual Signals on Aids to
Navigation, Edition 2, December (2009), p. 6 REQUEST PERMISSION TO USE THIS
[10] CIE 39.3-1996 Revision 1, Technical Report, Recommendations for Surface Colours for Visual
Signalling, p.4 REQUEST PERMISSION TO USE THIS

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[11] IALA Recommendation E-108 on The Surface Colours used as Visual Signals on Aids to
Navigation, Edition 2, December (2009), p. 6 REQUEST PERMISSION TO USE THIS
[12] Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Admin., DOT 49 CFR, Appendix A to §172
[13] Signell, P., Specification of Color Chromaticity, Michigan State University, 5c, p. 14

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Annex A
(informative)
Chromaticity diagram for safety yellow

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The bounding lines show the range of all acceptable hues for Safety Yellow. They extend from the edge of the
spectrum locus towards the center of the chromaticity diagram.
Figure A1
Enlarged View of the CIE 1931 Chromaticity Diagram Showing the Color Region for Safety Yellow

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 ANSI Z535.1-2016, v0.0

Annex B
(informative)
Color region comparison between ANSI Z535.1 and ISO 3864-4

Figure B1 provides a comparison between ANSI Z535.1 Safety Color regions and ISO 3864-4 Safety
Colour regions on the CIE 1931 Chromaticity Diagram.

The solid circles inside each safety color boundary region, identifies the standard for each ANSI safety color.
The gray boundary lines identify ISO safety colours.
Figure B1
ANSI Z535.1 Safety Colors Using Illuminant C and
ISO 3864-4 Safety Colours Using Standard Illuminant D65

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 Annex C
(informative)
Safety color cross-reference chart

Table C1
ANSI Z535.1 Safety Colors - Cross-Reference Chart

HTML
PROCESS COLOR sRGB
SAFETY MUNSELL NOTATION CODE
COLOR Hue Value / Chroma
C M Y K R G B

Safety Red 7.5 R 4.0 / 14 0 100 75 4 198 12 48 C60C30

or PANTONE® 186 C

Safety Orange 5.0 YR 6.0 / 15 0 55 100 0 225 121 0 FF7900

or PANTONE® 151 C

Safety Yellow 5.0 Y 8.0 / 12 0 10 100 0 254 209 0 FED100

or PANTONE® 109 C

Safety Green 7.5 G 4.0 / 9 100 0 58 22 0 127 100 007F64

or PANTONE® 335 C

Safety Blue 2.5 PB 3.5 / 10 90 48 0 0 0 115 207 0073CF

or PANTONE® 285 C

Safety Purple 10.0 P 4.5 / 10 69 100 1 5 110 38 123 6E267B

or PANTONE® 259 C

Safety White N 9.0 / 255 255 255 FFFFFF

Safety Black N 1.5 / 0 0 0 100 30 30 30 1E1E1E

or PANTONE®
Process BLACK1
1
This black is not a dense black, but will appear as brownish black since it relies on the other process colors to create
a richer black. For a rich dense black, use PANTONE® black or equivalent.

NOTE The “C” following each PANTONE ® number represents how the color will appear when printed on a coated
stock.

In lieu of the safety colors specified in ANSI Z535.1, the PANTONE ® colors listed in Table C1 may be
used. Refer to the current edition of the PANTONE Formula Guide®. PANTONE® and PANTONE Color
Bridge® are the property of Pantone LLC.
The chart shown in Table C1 is intended to assist producers and designers who need to properly specify
safety colors for a variety of media. PANTONE® colors simulated in four-color process are within the
tolerance limits for safety yellow, safety green, safety purple and safety black. Safety red, safety orange
and safety blue are to be matched as a spot color in most instances. Since process color printing may not
achieve the PANTONE® color specified, make certain the color is equivalent to the color swatch displayed
in the PANTONE Color Bridge® Guide. If the process color is not within tolerances, it must be reproduced
as a spot color. CMYK color formulas may not achieve the minimum chroma (C minus colors) in Table 1
and be less vivid than the Munsell Notation for each safety color. Munsell color sheets designed to meet
ANSI Z535.1 safety color specifications are available from X-RITE, Incorporated.
Colors viewed on a computer monitor can appear differently when printed. Color gamuts vary from
computers to output devices and may require color correction to accurately reproduce a color.

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 ANSI Z535.1-2016, v0.0

Please ensure that only PANTONE® licensed materials (e.g. vinyl, printing inks) are used when pieces are
printed or manufactured. PANTONE® publications should be replaced annually to maintain optimal
performance.

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 Annex D
(informative)
ISO information

D1 ISO 3864-4:2011, Annex E

NOTE The following is from ISO 3864-4:2011, Annex E, and is reprinted with permission. References to clauses
and tables are to those in ISO 3864-4:2011, not in ANSI Z535.1. To ensure numbering consistency of tables that
appear in ANSI Z535.4, the referenced Table E.1 of ISO 3864-4 is Table D1 of ANSI Z535.1.

Examples of safety colours and contrast colours for object colours of ordinary
materials
Colour regions for ordinary materials are specified in Table 1 by chromaticity coordinates and a luminance
factor. However, manufacturers of safety signs might need guidelines concerning what the respective
colours look like. For this purpose, and not for colour matching, examples of colour swatches within the
colour region are given in Table E.1. Some of the colour references are specified in various national
standards for safety signs.
The colour references in Table E.1 are available as colour swatches. The order of listing within the
columns of thetable is arbitrary and the rows of the table do not represent any closeness of colour
matching.
Table D1
[ISO 3864-4:2011] Table E.1 – Ordinary materials: examples for object colours that fall within
the specified chromaticity coordinates and luminance factor for the colour region

Colour RAL Munsell BS 5252 NCS

swatch (DIN 6164)
Red RAL 3001 7,5R4/14 Gb 04E56 S 1080-R GL
(7,5: 8,5: 3)
RAL 3001/840-HR 7,5R4/15 Ga 04E53 S 1085-Y90R
(7,6: 7,3: 3.2)
RAL EFFECT 450-6 7,5R4/16 G S 1080-90R GL
(7,6: 8,1: 2,0)
S1580-Y90R
S1580-Y90R GL
S2570-Y90R GL

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 ANSI Z535.1-2016, v0.0

Table D1 - continued
Yellow RAL 1003 2,5Y8/12 G 08E53 S 0585-Y20R GL
(2,5: 6,5: 1)
RAL 1003/840-HR 2,5Y8/14 Ga 08E51 S 1070-Y10R
(2,6: 6,2: 0,9)
RAL 1021/840-HR 2,5Y8/16 G 10E55 S 0580-Y10R
(1,9: 6,6: 0,9)
RAL EFFECT 290-6 5Y8/14 Gb 10E51 S 1080-Y10R GL
(2,7: 6,1: 0,8)
RAL EFFECT 270-5 5Y8/14 G S 1070-Y10R GL
(2,0: 6,5: 0,9)
10YR8/12 G S 1080-Y10R
10YR8/14 G S 0580-Y10R GL
S 0570-Y10R GL
S 0570-Y10R
S 1080-Y
S 1080-Y GL
S 1070-Y
S 0580-Y GL
S 1070-Y GL
S 0580-Y
Green RAL 6032 10G4/10 Ga 14E56 S 1565-G GL
(21,7: 6,5: 4) S 1565-G
RAL 6032/840-HR 7,5G4/9 Gb S 2060-G GL
(21,7: 5,9: 4,0) S 3060-G GL
RAL EFFECT 220-5 2,5G4/10 G S 2060-G
(21,7: 5,9: 4,1)
5G4/10 G S 2565-G GL
5G4/8 G S 2565-G
7,5G4/10 G S 3060-G
S 3060-B90G GL
Blue RAL 5005 2,5PB3.5/10Ga,b 20E56 S 2065-R90B
(16,7: 7,2: 3,8)
RAL 5005/840-HR 10B3/8 G 20E53 S 3060-R90B
(16,7: 6,3: 3,8)
RAL 5017/840-HR 2,5PB3/8 G S 3560-R90B
(17,1: 6,3: 3,6)
RAL EFFECT 640-5 2,5PB3/10 G S 3065-R90B GL
(16,7: 6,2: 3,7)
5PB4/12 G S 3065-R90B
5PB3/10 G S 4050-R80B
S 3060-R80B
S 2565-R80B
White RAL 9003 N9,5 Ga 00E55 S 0500-N
(N: 0: 0,5)
RAL 9003/840-HR N9,0 Gb
(N: 0,1: 0,4)
RAL EFFECT 120-1
(N: 0,1: 0,4)

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 Table D1 - continued
Black RAL 9004 N1 Ga 00E53 S 9000-N
(N: 0: 9)
RAL 9005/840-HR N1,5 Gb
(N: 0,1: 8,2)
RAL EFFECT 790-5
(N: 0,4: 8,6)
NOTE Munsell and NCS colour swatches can have either a glossy or matte finish. Where the finish is
glossy, Munsell uses the label “G”, NCS uses the label “GL”.
a
JIS Z 9103.
b
ANSI Z 535.1.

To identify a colour reference in another colour classification system, that colour reference should be
tested in accordance with 5.2.1 and meet the specifications in Table 1.
Colours within the colour region and further from the colour region boundaries are likely to take longer to
deteriorate and therefore remain within the colour region limits for longer. The rate of colour deterioration
may also depend upon the nature of the pigment used in the finished safety sign.
Testing of the durability of safety sign material is given in ISO 17398.

D2 ISO references for safety orange

Table D2
ISO References for Colour Order Systems for Safety Colour Orange

DIN 5381
Colour RAL
DIN 6164a

Orange 5,5:6,5:2 2010

a
The colour reference cards in accordance with DIN 6164 can be purchased from DIN’s
publishing house (Beuth Verlag GmbH, D-10772 Berlin, www.din.de/beuth) and will be supplied
as safety colour cards as grouped in DIN 5381 and on the basis of DIN 6164.

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 ANSI Z535.1-2016, v0.0

Annex E
(informative)
Munsell information

Figure E1
Munsell Hue Circle

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 Figure E2
Munsell Hue, Value, Chroma

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 ANSI Z535.1-2016, v0.0

2016 Revisions

The ANSI Accredited Standards Committee Z535 plans to issue the next revisions of the Z535 standards
(Z535.1 through Z535.6) in December 2016. In order to meet that deadline, the committee developed the
following tentative timetable:

All proposed changes are due: June 30, 2014

Revisions will be finalized for letter balloting: April 15, 2015
Letter balloting will be completed by: July 15, 2015
Public reviews will be completed by: March 1, 2016
Drafts will be ready to submit to the publisher: May 31, 2016
Published: December 15, 2016

All proposed changes must be submitted by June 30, 2014. Any proposals received after that date
will be deferred to subsequent revisions. In order to facilitate the next revision, proposed changes must be
submitted on a form for that specific purpose, which is on the next page. Please send this form to:

Secretary, ANSI Committee Z535

National Electrical Manufacturers Association
1300 North 17th Street, Suite 1752
Rosslyn, VA 22209

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26
 ANSI Accredited Standards Committee Z535
on Safety Signs and Colors

FORM FOR PROPOSALS

Return to: Secretary, ANSI Committee Z535

National Electrical Manufacturers Association
1300 North 17th Street, Suite 900
Rosslyn, VA 22209

Name _________________________________________ Date ______________________

Address ___________________________________________________________________

Representing _______________________________________________________________
(Please indicate organization or self)

E-mail Address ________________________________ Telephone ____________________

1. a. Standard Title __________________________________________________

b. Section/Paragraph ______________________________________________

2. Proposal recommends (check one): New Text

Revised Text
Deleted Text

3. Proposal (Include the proposed new or revised text, or identify the words to be deleted.
Underline additions and strikethrough deletions.)

4. Statement of the Problem or Reason for the Proposal

5. Check one. This proposal is original material.

This proposal is not original material; its source is as follows:
______________________________________________________

______________________________________________________

This original material is the submitter’s own idea based upon his/her own experience, thought, or research, and to the best of his/her
knowledge, is not copied from another source.

I agree to give NEMA all and full rights, including rights of copyright, in this proposal, and I understand that I acquire no
rights in any standards publication in which this proposal in this or another similar or analogous form is used.

_________________________________________
Signature
Please do not write in the space below.
Date Received: Log #

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