Construction sites are busy places. With machinery, vehicles and workers coming and going, there are hazards around every corner. It's no wonder, then, that construction safety and health is such a huge priority.
A key requirement of construction safety rules is the inclusion of construction safety signs, so here's how you can make your site safer with signage.
Importance of safety signage
Construction safety signage helps to prevent any accidents or collisions from occurring for all those who visit the site, whether that be the workers themselves or visitors. Accidents on construction sites not only cause injuries but can lead to loss of life, so being aware of all the potential health and safety risks whilst on site is crucial.
Construction site safety signboards also notify workers or visitors which way to safely navigate around the site, including entrance and exit routes, and what protective equipment they should wear. Signs can also provide warning information about potential dangers, as well as detailed instructions that people need to follow, such as 'no smoking' or 'do not enter'.
Should there be any emergencies, building site safety signs can also provide relevant information, such as where to go for first aid or to reach the nearest fire exit.
Making your construction site safer with signage
Construction sites can be made safer with signage by identifying all of the potential risks and hazards that are present on a site. While there will be some that are common to all sites, there may be others that are unique to each location.
Key requirements
According to UK regulations, about construction site signage requirements, signs should be placed in the appropriate locations, be easy to read even from a distance, and should be clear and logical. Even the smallest hint of confusion could cost a life, for example, if there is a delay in reaching an exit following a fire, or if the correct PPE isn't worn, so signs must be consistent throughout the site and accurate.
All-weather signage
Construction site safety signboards can make areas less risky to work in if the signage is legible in all weather conditions. After all, if it's dark, misty or raining and signs aren't visible, they might not be noticed, resulting in accidents. Sites can be kept safer by choosing signage that caters for all weather conditions, such as lettering that can be seen in low light. Signs should be used that are made from highly durable materials so that they don't easily fade or become worn from exposure to the elements.
Signage may need replacing or updating over time, and regular monitoring of signage requirements may need to be made if any changes in risks or hazards occur on the site during construction projects.
Training
While construction site safety signage is vitally important, it's not a substitute for site safety training. It should be used in conjunction with training workers on safety procedures, the correct use of equipment, the site risks and how to work safely around the site.
To make your construction site safer with the relevant signage, contact the experts at The Sign Shed.
