Full Body Harnesses And Lifelines Shall Be Worn – SABS safety sign (MV18)

The Full Body Harnesses And Lifelines Shall Be Worn safety sign (MV18) is used to require a full body harness and lifeline at the point where compliance is required. Mandatory signs instruct specific actions that must be carried out to reduce risk and maintain safe working conditions.

Purpose and function

This sign reinforces compulsory safety requirements to reduce fall-from-height risk. It supports consistent behaviour across teams, reduces ambiguity for contractors and visitors, and forms part of a broader risk control system alongside training and site procedures.

Typical applications

• Work at height areas where fall prevention and controlled access are required
• Maintenance zones involving access equipment and elevated work platforms
• Sites where harness and lifeline systems form part of the safe work method
• Areas where equipment requires use of safety cages or controlled platforms

Commonly used with

• Beware Of Fragile Surface SABS safety sign
• Beware Of Catwalk SABS safety sign
• Stairs Going Down (Left) SABS safety sign
• Stairs Going Up (Right) SABS safety sign

Selection and placement guidance

Place mandatory signs at entrances to controlled areas and at the point where the required action must be taken. Position within the normal line of sight, maintain consistent mounting heights across a site, and ensure the sign remains unobstructed. Where multiple actions are required, use a coordinated set of signs or a combined sign format to reduce confusion.

For broader guidance on safety sign categories, colours, shapes, and correct selection, refer to our Safety Signs Explained guide.

Visibility and material options

This sign is available in standard sizes and materials suited to typical indoor and outdoor applications. Select a size that matches viewing distance and environment, and choose a substrate appropriate to the exposure conditions. Where the instruction must remain visible during power failure or low-light conditions, consider a photoluminescent option where available in the range.

For applications requiring extended emergency wayfinding or enhanced visibility in low-light conditions, view the full range of photoluminescent safety signs.

Compliance

In South Africa, safety sign designs follow South African National Standards (SANS), including SANS 1186-1:2022, which governs the design, colours, shapes, symbols, and application of safety signs and safety markings. These standards are administered through the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) to promote consistent recognition across workplaces and public environments.

SANS 1186-1:2022 aligns closely with internationally recognised standards, including ISO 7010 and ISO 3864-3, ensuring familiarity and clear understanding across different industries and regions.