The importance of cautionary signs cannot be overstated, more so in high risk areas such as construction sites and warehouses. Unfortunately, majority of accidents that occur in warehouses are preventable thus highlighting the need for using safety signs. Below is a list of five main benefits of using safety signs in a warehouse.
1. Preventing the occurrence of accidents
Although there exists a host of benefits associated with setting up safety signs, preventing accidents is the most important use of such signs. Factories, warehouses and construction sites are among the most injury prone areas, and, as a result, it is necessary to warn users of the impending dangers. A proper safety sign should not only be easy to spot but also strategically positioned to help caution people of the need for increased vigilance. Setting up safety signs helps prevent staff injury while also reducing the instances of damage to company equipment. On most occasions, safety signs are usually the difference between life and death. Therefore, it is important to ensure that a warehouse has well labeled safety signs located in all the high risk areas.
2. Protection from liability
Over the years, there has been a steady increase in law suits resulting from work related injuries. According to US employment law, all employers have the duty to warn employees of the various risks associated with the business premises. Should you fail to notify your staff of the various work- related risks, then you stand to face legal action in the event of an accident, no matter how minor. Due diligence is important when it comes to preventing lawsuits. Having hazard signs around the warehouse ensures that in case an accident occurs, your business will not be held liable. A simple safety sign can go a long way in protecting your business from incurring hefty fines in the event of a legal battle.
3. Promoting a culture of safety
As is obvious, organizational culture plays a massive role in determining the behavior and attitudes of employees. Similarly, putting up safety hazards in all the high risk areas helps promote a safety culture in the warehouse. Without adequate safety signs, employees can be tempted to use easier but high risk alternatives that could either cause damage to property or even life threatening injuries. However, having safety signs in every corner of the warehouse will act as a constant reminder of the need to exercise caution while at work. A safety driven culture will help reduce the instances of injuries as every stakeholder will be keen to uphold the business` high safety standards. Thus, it is advisable to invest heavily in safety signage as a way of preventing avoidable injuries in the warehouse.
4. Enhanced efficiency
Concise and consistent communication is among the most reliable ways to keep everyone in the workplace happy and safe. As such, having safety signs put up in a warehouse helps create awareness of impending danger. Due to the knowledge of the risks associated with particular activities, employees will be well placed to perform their work better. For instance, the knowledge of the risk of falls helps employees know which areas to operate from and which equipment to use. Without the safety signs, it would be difficult for staff members to understand how to mitigate the risks. Hazard signs help conserve time as they play a massive role in preventing the occurrence of accidents while at work.
5. Healthy work environment
The knowledge that management is concerned with the welfare of its employees plays a crucial role in promoting a healthy work environment. Unfortunately, some work related injuries can be severe and lead to disability, or even worse, death. Setting up hazard signs is an indication of commitment towards employee safety. Safety signs also help enhance employee confidence in the overall safety and security of the workplace. Scared or unconvinced employees cannot perform at a high level and will tend to avoid working in some departments. However, well positioned safety signs ensure that employees are aware of all the risks and the various precautions required to avoid sustaining injuries at work.
