Beacons convey strong and vital messages in the colours they use; they allow people to become more aware of their surroundings and any possible dangers that may be on-coming. These devices deliver messages in their colour and their position, place and time of use.
Knowing the meaning behind the colours of beacons will allow you to determine their purpose for your next action and if installing them, will allow you to choose the right colour you require.
As a general guideline:
Colour: Red.
The colour red is usually associated with strong messages such as danger, hazard and emergency situations. Red is considered as a powerful signal that can trigger an automatic message to any viewer. Red coloured beacons are mostly used to warn people to keep away from a dangerous area/situation.
Colour: Amber/Yellow.
The colour amber or yellow often triggers a person’s thoughts to slow down and to be cautious. For this reason, amber colours beacons are used on slow moving vehicles, on construction sites, airports and in other establishments to increase awareness to crowds.
Colour: Green.
The colour green indicates safety, it delivers a message that a particular situation is currently being handled and the area is safe. This colour signal offers people assurance that everything is under control.
Colour: Blue.
The colour blue is mostly used by emergency vehicles – for this reason blue beacons are not applicable to be used in certain places such as public roads. If you are not certain if a blue beacon is the right colour for your application, it’s best to check with officials in your local government who will advise further.
Colour: Clear.
White beacons are often used alongside other coloured beacons and are generally used in offices and schools as an alternative indication. This indication is generally left open to the end-users specific requirements.
It is worth noting that colour is not the only thing to consider when searching the right beacon to use, the type of lamp, mode and brightness are also important factors that need consideration.