ANSI Z535.6 and Conspicuity: A Test of the New State of the Art Format for Instructions

ANSI Z535 provides guidance to manufacturers regarding the format and content of labels, signs, and other materials. In laboratory studies, elements of the standard appear to contribute to the visibility and comprehension of risk communications, but there is little real-world-based evidence that adherence to formatting guidelines reduces injuries. In the present study, we measured both real-world behavior and laboratory behavior using a within-subject design. Recall of, and compliance with, warnings as a function of increasing use of ANSI Z535.6 formatting was assessed. Additionally, self-reported compliance at home was compared to observed compliance behavior in the laboratory. ANSI formatting increased the likelihood that a warning was recognized. Rate of compliance was higher in the laboratory setting than self-reported at-home compliance. However, there was no evidence that compliance was impacted by the presence, absence or degree of ANSI Z535 formatting.

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