Today the printing industry employs over 316,000 people making it the 6th largest employer in the UK. Unfortunately, around 1200 workers reported to the HSE (Health and Safety Executive) work related injuries, with over 200 reported injuries classed as major, fractures and amputations. Most common reported injuries stem from manual handling, slips, trips & falls and contact with machinery.
According to HSE reported accident statistics, 413 people (around 35%) are injured by incorrect manual handling. This is an astoundingly high figure which is why Think Safety Signs have produced a number of videos and booklets which illustrate some common tasks and possible solutions to aid workers lift correctly and help your company avoid needless loss of staff from time of work or even employees seeking compensation for their injuries.
Slips, Trips & Falls
It is also reported that 281 people are injured due to slips, trips and falls, with a number of these being major, this number represents 24% of all accidents reported to the HSE in this sector. Where do these accidents happen? 50% occurred in production areas. It goes without saying that having proper safety signs in place can let all your employees be more aware that walkways are to be kept free from obstructions, pallets and other obstructions are stacked in a proper way in a designated area.
Oil contamination from poorly maintained machinery is one of the main causes for slips, it is very important that any contamination is cleaned up immediately. No matter how small the spillage always dry the floor after cleaning using towels or a dry mop. If a floor remains wet after cleaning, put up hazard warning signs whilst the floor is drying.
Machine Safety
With 17% of accidents reported to the HSE, that’s 192 people, suffered from lacerations, cuts, bruises, fractures/dislocations, crushing injuries and amputations. Most occurring to hands and fingers. A majority of machine accidents occurred from the placing of body parts into or near the running/rotating parts of most printing machines. Typical activities surrounding machine accidents included: employees freeing blockages; cleaning down; making ready; webbing up; and maintenance activities.
Other Types of Accidents
16% occur in car park and outdoor areas, with winter and the icy weather now upon us encourage your employees to report any flooring or car park areas that are in need of repair. Pot holes should be repaired immediately or barriers placed around that area. (with the dark mornings and nights it is advisable to have these areas lit to prevent any accidents from occurring). Ice and Snow salt bins is the best way to prevent major problems in work car park areas.
Stairways account for 13% of accidents within the printing industry. There are a number of things you can do to reduce the chance of falling on stairways: Provide suitable handrails. Ensure that step heights (risers) and depths (goings) are equal in length. Make sure there is adequate lighting. Use colour contrast to highlight step edges. Provide adequate underfoot friction (consider anti-slip surfaces). Arrange the work so that employees don’t have to carry large or awkward items up or down stairs. Keep stairs free from obstructions. Clear up spillages on stairs immediately. (source HSE)
In summary Health and Safety within your company is everyone’s responsibility, for advice on all your companies Health and Safety signage don’t hesitate to contact 1 of our sales advisers today.
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