Do You Need Safety Signs If You Work From Home?

With more people working from home than ever before, you might be wondering: do health and safety rules — and signs — still apply in a home office? The short answer: sometimes, yes.

In this post, we break down when UK health and safety signage is required in remote working environments, and what small business owners, freelancers, and employers with hybrid teams need to consider in 2025.

What Does the Law Say?

Under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, employers have a legal responsibility to ensure the health, safety and welfare of their employees — including those working from home.

This means that home workspaces must be:

• ✅ Safe and suitable for the tasks being carried out
• ✅ Free from avoidable risks or hazards
• ✅ Assessed periodically if the employer provides equipment

While the law doesn’t typically mandate signage in private homes, there are situations where it is required — especially if the home is also used as a client-facing or commercial space.

When Might You Need Signage at Home?

You may need health and safety signs in a home-based environment if:

• You run a business from home with clients, staff, or visitors on-site
• You store hazardous substances or materials on the premises
• You have shared entrances or facilities (e.g. flats, studios)
• Your property is classed as a commercial premises or subject to building regulations

Recommended Signs for Home-Based Workspaces

Depending on your setup, the following signs may be appropriate:

• 🧯 Fire Exit or Fire Extinguisher Signs — if equipment is installed in a designated area
• 🚷 No Entry or Private Area Signs — for separating work and living space
• 📛 Hazard Warnings — for chemical storage, electrical equipment, or trip hazards
• 🚭 No Smoking Signs — for compliance if the property is partially open to the public
• 🅿️ Visitor Parking or Delivery Access Signs — for home-based shops, salons, or studios

🛒 Browse Safety Signs for Home-Based Workspaces »

Are You Self-Employed? Here’s What to Know

If you’re self-employed and work alone at home, the law is generally more flexible. However, if your business operations affect others — including customers, delivery drivers, or tenants — then signage may still be a wise choice to reduce liability and promote a safe environment.

Final Thought: It’s About Risk, Not Just Rules

Health and safety isn’t only about ticking legal boxes. Even if signs aren’t strictly required in your home office, they can help prevent confusion, reduce risk, and project professionalism — especially in shared or client-facing setups.

Why Choose The Safety Sheep Store?

• ✅ Made in Britain
• ✅ Trade discounts up to 35%
• ✅ HSE-compliant designs and materials
• ✅ Options for homes, outbuildings, sheds, and studios

Explore Our Full Safety Sign Range »