When thinking about a sign that doesn't work, I immediately thought of the skull and crossbones symbol, which is often used to identify poisonous substances. However, back in the 1970's, people began to doubt the effectiveness of the symbol. Due to the image's association with pirates, some began to wonder if it might, in fact, lure children to it instead of keeping them away. The image is one that most would associate with death and although the meaning may be easily implied by adults, children are the main concern when labeling substances as poisonous. When an image can be associated with multiple meanings, it's intended meaning becomes ambiguous. This is problematic for all, but most certainly for children, who may not yet be able to distinguish between the different meanings.Stuides done in the 70's proved that the symbol often attracted children, and as a result, Mr. Yuk was born. This symbol has not completely replaced the skull and crossbones, but many believe it is more effective in dissuading children from consuming items than the skull and crossbones image.
I also found a video on YouTube of a public service announcement for Mr. Yuk. It is pretty distrubing, but I think it proves an interesting point: even this image cannot stand on it's own as a symbol of poisonous material. It needs it's own (disturbing) advertising to make the meaning apparent.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hHkT4peQdbs
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