10.9.10 Signage Is Not A Substitute For Engineering Controls

Signage is an administrative control and occupies a lower level of the hierarchy than elimination, substitution, and engineering controls.

A sign does not reduce RF exposure or physically prevent entry. It is most effective when combined with barriers, locks, interlocks, access control, isolation, down-powering, or other controls selected for the assessed conditions.

The RF safety program and applicable Plan should not rely on a person reading and obeying a sign when a reasonably practicable higher-order control can prevent the exposure.

10.9.11 Summary

Signage and site marking communicate RF hazards, exposure-limit boundaries, access conditions, and required actions. RPS S-1 requires areas above the public and occupational limits to be clearly identified and delineated. Signs must comply with applicable safety-sign requirements, remain current and legible, and be understood by the people who rely on them. Because they do not reduce fields or prevent entry, they must support—not replace—the higher-order controls and safe work arrangements in the applicable RF Radiation Safety Plan.