PSNet & Jim,
Developing symbols to represent something is not a simple task, nor
one which should be done casually. The symbols in IEC 417 (or the
companion ISO standard) are agreed by consensus as to their meaning.
The general understanding of the meaning is not always obvious.
>From my experience, it takes some training to develop a common
understanding as to the meaning of any symbol. The training invariably
includes associating the symbol with some words.
Because of this association of symbol and words, the use of both
symbols and words is advocated in standards such as ANSI Z535.4. This is
not a casual association of these two even tho it is not the solution
desired by manufacturers wanting to easily design products for worldwide
sale.
Finally, because of challenges to markings in American courts, the
use of any new symbol better be backed up with some research that shows the
natural association of the symbol with the desired action. Manufacturer's
have paid big buck$ because they couldn't show this association.
So, Jim, move ahead thoughtfully on this...
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Peter E Perkins
Principal Product Safety Consultant
Tigard, ORe 97281-3427
+1/503/452-1201 phone/fax
[email protected] email
visit our website:
http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/peperkins
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