Workplace safety remains a significant concern for businesses across all sectors in the United Kingdom. Recent statistics from the Labour Force Survey (LFS) reveal that in 2022/23, a staggering 561,000 UK workers suffered non-fatal injuries at work, with 124,000 of these incidents resulting in absences exceeding seven days. These figures underscore the critical need for improved safety measures, which is why we’ve put together this article.
Join us as we outline the impact of workplace injuries and how safety signage can play a crucial part in preventing them.
The impact of workplace injuries
The repercussions of workplace accidents extend far beyond the immediate physical harm to employees. The financial impact can be substantial, especially on small to medium-sized businesses. 70% of SME owners report that absenteeism directly affects their profitability. This strain and the human cost of injuries emphasise how important effective safety measures can be.
Common workplace injuries and how to prevent them
Understanding the most frequent types of workplace injuries is the best place to start when developing targeted safety strategies. According to the Health and Safety Executive, the leading causes of non-fatal workplace injuries in 2022/23 were:
- Slips, trips, or falls on the same level (32%)
- Handling, lifting, or carrying (17%)
- Being struck by a moving object (11%)
- Falls from height, primarily from ladders (8%)
- Acts of violence (8%)
Slips, trips, and falls are not confined to high-risk industries. Still, they can occur in any workplace or environment, yet again highlighting the importance of comprehensive safety measures across all sectors.
The power of effective safety signage
Safety signs can play a pivotal role in preventing workplace accidents when implemented correctly. However, their effectiveness relies heavily on proper placement, visibility, and ongoing maintenance. Here are some key points to ensure your safety signs are helping to reduce workplace injuries and accidents:
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Strategic placement –
Position signs at eye level or approximately 78 inches high to ensure visibility from a distance and for those looking up.
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Clear messaging –
Use simple, universally recognised symbols and clear language to convey safety messages effectively.
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High visibility –
In poorly lit areas, use photoluminescent signs or provide adequate lighting to ensure signs remain visible at all times.
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Regular maintenance –
Conduct routine checks to ensure signs are not obscured, damaged, or outdated.
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Employee training –
Provide comprehensive training on the meaning and importance of safety signs, particularly for less common or industry-specific signage.
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Context-specific signage –
Tailor safety signs to address the specific risks present in different areas of the workplace.
Employing a safety culture in your business
While safety signage is a crucial component in injury prevention, it’s part of a broader safety culture that requires commitment from both employers and employees in a business. Some additional steps to enhance workplace safety include conducting regular risk assessments, encouraging staff to report potential hazards and utilising design elements or storage solutions to make sure the workspace is as efficient and organised as possible.
It’s clear that effective safety signage, when part of a comprehensive safety strategy, can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and create a safer, more productive work environment.
By investing in clear, visible, and well-maintained safety signs, businesses can protect their most valuable asset – their employees – while also safeguarding their bottom line.
