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Abstract

Previous research has shown that signal words, warning colors, and symbol explicitness can affect warning effectiveness and hazard perceptions. This study assessed the impact of two warning colors, two warning sign types, and two levels of symbol explicitness on college student behavior. Scaffolding was erected in front of a building to simulate a construction area, and warning signs were placed on one door instructing individuals to use an alternate exit. Warning effectiveness was assessed by comparing transformed proportion data based on the number of people exiting the building. The presence of a sign significantly altered traffic patterns. The traffic patterns did not vary as a function of warning color, sign type, or symbol explicitness.

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Effects of Warning Symbol Explicitness and Warning Color on Behavioral Compliance

Abstract

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References