Soviet-Era Work Safety Notices Published 28 February 2013

The U.S.S.R. was notorious for its omnipresent propaganda. The Bolshevik regime proved wonderfully

adept at using the skills of talented graphic designers and writers to create vivid images and slogans aimed at

ideologically motivating the masses to transform society. Their work permeated all aspects of life during the

communist era, including art, industry, and science. As an item posted on the English Russia website

illustrates, however, the state even invested a lot of artistic endeavor into such mundane areas as health and

safety at the workplace. (See the captions for translations.)

Don't walk on fish

Don't use water to extinguish a fire in the engine. It conducts electricity

Don't stand under the scaffolding when people are working above

Don't check for an electrical current with your finger

I was drunk at work"

"Watch your step!"

Don't open the lid of a machine before it stops

"Read the manual before starting work!"

Cover your hair!

Beware of railway couplings!

Don't leave anything on the scaffolding unsecured!

"Be careful with hoes!"

Be careful with pitchforks!

Don't use your foot to change the belt

Don't clean the cylinders while they are in motion