Must each fire extinguisher have a sign?

OSHA requires at 1910.157(c)(1) that employers “mount, locate and identify (fire extinguishers) so that they are readily accessible to employees . . .” While some method of identification is required, OSHA does not specifically require a sign. However, according to 1910.144, red is the basic color for identification of fire protection equipment and apparatus. As such, fire extinguisher signage or other identifiers should be red. It should be noted that ANSI Z535.2 recommends specifications for sign format and colors for fire extinguisher location signs. Also, employers must comply with state and local fire codes which may dictate more specific requirements regarding signs, markings, and labels.