The Signs that Underpin Construction Safety
Safety signs are essential for informing workers and passerbys of potential hazards. This list of the top five examines why.
When it comes to construction safety, the biggest risk is not from people committing reckless acts or failing to follow the correct procedures through laziness or over confidence. In the vast majority of cases, accidents come about through individuals simply being unaware of potential hazards or what to do under specific circumstances. This is why signage is so important.
None of us are psychic, so we need information in order to follow the right course of action. The building industry is one of the most hazardous sectors there is, so the need for construction safety signs is doubly important to protect everyone in and around the site. Here, we take a look at five of the most important ones.
Exit
In any public place, the most important thing to make sure everyone knows is how to get out in case of a fire or other emergency. On a construction site, this is just as important. The exit, along with the route to get there, needs to be clearly marked, visible from all points and appropriately illuminated.
PPE
PPE is an essential aspect of Health and Safety, and telling workers what equipment needs to be worn where is as important as actually providing it. In a construction setting, this is likely to include hard hats, safety boots, protective gloves and ear defenders.
Authorised access
Telling people how to get out is one thing, but it is equally important to deter unauthorised persons from entering a construction area. Humans are, by nature, curious beasts, and will want to take a look at what is going on unless they are instructed to keep out of the way. The last thing you need on a construction site is a bunch of nosey spectators trying to get themselves run over, hit on the head or subjected to some other accident.
Electrical safety
Again, electrical safety signs are essential in all public places, and especially so when there is building work going on and an increased probability of live wires being exposed. Over in the US, electrical safety issues of one sort or another hold three of the top ten most cited health and safety violations. Here in the UK, there are fewer incidents, but not because the risk is any lower – our superior safety record is only because of better training and awareness. The message is clear – high voltage signs must be posted anywhere there is a threat of contact with electrical current.
Fire safety
The risk of fire is ever present, and again, the UK construction industry has a safety record that is held as a benchmark the world over. To maintain this enviable position and keep everyone safe, it is essential to post signs advising of the basic fire safety procedures, including where to assemble, who to call and the location of firefighting equipment.
We stock all the above signs. If you are unsure which signs you require for your business, call our health and safety signage experts today.