gebruiksverboden

Gebruiksverboden is a Dutch term used to indicate that the use of something is prohibited. It is commonly found on signs, labels, and in rules or manuals to denote a prohibition on operating, handling, or using a device, space, or material. The word is formed from gebruiken (to use) and verboden (forbidden). In signage, gebruiksverboden often appears as a heading or label rather than a full sentence, and it is understood as a formal prohibition of use in the specified context. Related phrases include gebruik verboden, het gebruik is verboden, or niet gebruiken; the exact form may vary with style guides or regional usage.

The term appears in various settings, such as industrial environments, laboratories, museums, and public areas, where certain uses could be dangerous, cause damage, or violate rules. It is typically accompanied by pictograms or color codes and may be supplemented by additional instructions, such as "alleen bevoegd personeel" (only authorized personnel) or "doe dit niet" (do not do this).

Safety regulations and signage standards in the Netherlands and Belgium influence the presentation of such prohibitions, often aligning with European standard pictograms for hazard communication. While gebruiksverboden signals a prohibition, it is usually a descriptive label on a sign or document rather than a separate legal term; the enforceability depends on the surrounding rules and contexts.