Winter is on its way and many people are already stocking up on thermals and buying snow shovels in preparation for the cold spell. Recent years have taught us to turn our heating on early to test the boiler and extra thick duvets have already started to appear from storage.
Health and safety in particular becomes paramount when the weather is nasty as wind and ice can make travelling and outdoor work extra difficult. Ensuring your place of work is safe is essential and this is particularly important for demolition sites which are hazardous all year round. Careful steps are taken to make sure the area is as hazard-free as possible and noise, dust and pollution inspections are regularly carried out.
Here are 5 safety signs you might find at a demolition site:
DANGER, demolition In progress
The “DANGER, demolition in progress” sign is extremely crucial as it warns anyone who comes into close range of the site that hazardous work is taking place. The Health & Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) regulations 1996 states that signage must be used to warn people of potential risks and to draw attention to what is going on. Coloured bright yellow and black, this particular sign is clear, concise and definitely stands out.
Site Safety Starts Here
The “site safety starts here” sign tells people in no uncertain terms that everybody should take note of company safety policies. It lets people know that they are entering a dangerous environment and must follow a list of strict procedures should they wish to visit the site. In line with the Health & Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) regulations 1996 this Mandatory sign consists of a blue circle background with a white pictogram and offers a clear instruction. While battling through the wind and rain make sure you slow down for winter salt spreaders on the road, be wary of ice and look out for informative signs en route.
Danger, overhead hazard
If there is an overhead hazard it is the law to warn workers, visitors and the public of this risk. The sign draws attention to particular dangers within the specific workplace and helps keep everyone in the area safe. Heavy rain and snow may affect the stability of rooftops or buildings during the demolition process and thus is it crucial to keep everyone informed of risky or no-go areas. The word “danger” appears on a yellow background and the sign should be clear for all to see.
Hearing protection must be worn
Demolition involves the complete or part removal of buildings and the work can often be incredibly loud. Hearing protection signs should be positioned around the site where necessary to tell both workers and visitors that they must use personal protective equipment. The white pictogram of a man wearing ear protectors gives clear instructions to anyone who may enter the site. You may not ever forget to use asset tags to secure property, so don’t forget to look after your own health too.
No entry
“No entry” signs offer clear visual guidance to workers, visitors and anyone who may happen to stroll nearby. The Health & Safety (Safety Sign and Signals) regulations 1996 state that Prohibition Signs must be displayed to control behaviour and stop individuals wondering into places that are deemed private, unsafe or both. Coloured red, white and black they act as a warning and should be positioned in all convenient and helpful places.
It is incredibly important to obey safety signs if you should see them as they are for your own protection. Be extra vigilant in winter and always remember to keep warm.
