Do Workplace Safety Decals Need to Be in Spanish Too?

Bilingual Safety Decals: Common Buyer Questions

Are bilingual safety decals required by OSHA?

OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard requires labels in English and allows employers to add other languages, and OSHA requires that safety information and training be understood by the employees exposed to the hazard. If a meaningful portion of your workforce reads Spanish, English-only labeling leaves a gap that bilingual labels close. Many employers choose bilingual OSHA signs as the practical way to document that hazard communication was accessible to the whole crew, not just English readers.

What's the difference between bilingual text decals and pictogram-only labels?

Pictogram-only labels rely on a universal symbol (like a lightning bolt for electrical hazard) and skip language entirely. Bilingual safety decals combine that same symbol with English and Spanish wording underneath or beside it. The combination is generally considered the clearest option because it backs up the visual cue with specific instructions, like 'Lockout Required / Se Requiere Bloqueo,' rather than relying on interpretation alone.

What material should I use for bilingual safety decals on equipment or outdoors?

For machinery, vehicles, and anything exposed to sun or weather, go with a cast vinyl or 3M Control Tac material rated for multi-year outdoor use. These hold up to UV, moisture, and abrasion far better than standard paper labels. If the decal needs to be visible in low light, pairing it with reflective film is worth reviewing. Our guide on reflective decals and why they matter for safety vehicles breaks down when reflective material makes sense versus standard vinyl.

Can I get bilingual safety decals in a specific size for my doorway, panel, or machine?

Yes. Sizes run from a few inches up to several feet depending on the product line, so a small hazard tag and a large bilingual facility sign can both be produced from the same order process. If you're labeling a fleet or a full job site, the bulk order stickers option applies tiered pricing once you're ordering 50 or more identical decals.

Do you have pre-made bilingual safety decal templates, or do I need to submit my own artwork?

All bilingual safety decals from Decals.com are custom printed, so we don't offer pre-made templates. You can upload your own artwork with the approved English and Spanish wording, or provide our team with the text, symbols, and design details you'd like included so we can assist with creating your decal. If your workplace requires a specific safety label format, such as an ANSI Z535-style layout, be sure to include those requirements when submitting your information. We recommend having your safety team verify the wording, translations, and applicable requirements before printing. 

How much do bilingual safety decals cost, and is there a bulk discount?

Pricing depends on size, material, and quantity. A single small decal costs more per unit than a 50-plus order of the same design, since tiered bulk pricing kicks in at 50 units and scales down from there. Minimum order quantity is just 1, so a single replacement label for one machine is just as easy to order as a full warehouse set.

How fast can I get bilingual safety decals produced and shipped?

Standard production is 3 business days. If you need signage sooner, rush production is available in as little as 1 business day, with 2 and 5 business day options in between depending on your deadline. Production time is separate from shipping transit, so factor both in when you're working against an inspection date or new equipment rollout.