The Date for Safe Schools Week

As an advocate for secure, safe and peaceful schools, the NSSC works tirelessly to provide resources, information and training services to school communities and their safety partners worldwide. It selects the dates for Safe Schools Week, with the following already published for the next few years.

• October 15-21, 2023
• October 20-26, 2024
• October 19-25, 2025

The third week in October, running from Sunday to Saturday, is the official designation for the awareness event.

The Goal of Raising Awareness

This special week set aside each year hopes to empower staff, students, administrators, and others to proactively create a safe learning environment. While the focus will vary by institution, the underlying goal is to generate conversations and develop strategies that address the school system’s safety risks.

For the most comprehensive strategies to evolve, the discussion must involve anyone involved with the school system. School safety ideas need to be on an individual, community and institutional level, which is why there is a wide range of people to be involved in strategic planning. Key input and considerations should include:

• School board members
• School employees
• Students and parents
• Community residents (including senior citizens)
• Service groups
• Business leaders
• Community representatives like law enforcement, government officials and media representatives

Open and transparent communication during Safe Schools Week between these groups will foster a sense of respect and trust in the effectiveness of a school's safety program and its focus.

The Focus of Safety Precautions

When considering school safety, it’s much more than addressing the threat of gun violence or bullying. Because of the significant and devastating impact these issues have on an entire school system, these are often the focal point of safety strategies. However, schools also need to consider the daily activities that could potentially lead to injuries or harm to students, staff, parents, visitors and more. Comprehensive school safety plans should include signage in schools since these are instructional elements that serve as directions or instructions during particular emergencies or events.

One particular area of focus should be the safe transport, drop off and pick up of students. Traffic congestion, bus schedules, dark mornings and rainy weather are just a few of the concerns that can lead to child safety concerns during a school day. Many schools address these risks with adequate lighting, roadway markings, reduced speed limits and school zone signs. While on the property, teachers and administrators rely on school crossing signs to drive awareness to motorists on the road.

Support Safe Schools Week

During Safe Schools Week, you can actively make a safer environment for your children and those of the community. ComplianceSigns, LLC carries a wide range of quality signage for many organizations, many of which support safety from the playgrounds to the classrooms across your campus. Order your signs today.

The post Safe Schools Week: Use the Right Signage in Schools appeared first on SafeWork Insider.

In moments like these, the urgency to locate tools quickly can be a matter of safety, and the inability to do so can leave you feeling helpless and overwhelmed. This is where the true value of our MOBILE Clean & Sweep Shadow Boards shines, providing a practical and efficient solution to avoid such frustrating and hazardous scenarios.

Mobile Shadow Boards: The Answer for Your Industry

At ComplianceSigns.com, we’re all about keeping things organized, efficient, and most importantly, safe! That’s why we’re super stoked to introduce our brand-new MOBILE Clean & Sweep Shadow Boards. Mobile shadow boards are portable, compact, and organized systems for managing tools and equipment. They use shadows to outline the shape of each item, making it easy to identify missing tools and maintain a clean workspace. These boards are mobile, allowing them to be moved to different locations, making them ideal for industries that require tool transportation

Mobile shadow boards designed to make your life easier, no matter what industry you’re in. Let’s take a closer look at how various industries can benefit from using these nifty tools.

Manufacturing Marvels

In the fast-paced world of manufacturing, every second counts. Our MOBILE Clean & Sweep Shadow Boards can be a game-changer for production lines and workshops. With easily accessible tools and a well-organized layout, your team can bid farewell to wasted time searching for equipment. Plus, these boards are available in various materials to match your environment, ensuring they’re tough enough to withstand the hustle and bustle of manufacturing.

Air Transportation

When it comes to air transportation, safety is paramount. Whether it’s on the tarmac or inside the aircraft, having tools readily available is a must. Our MOBILE Shadow Boards provide a maneuverable solution that is perfect for basic maintenance and janitorial usage around airports. Imagine having all your essential tools on hand without the need to trek back and forth. Cool, right?

Food Service

From fast-food joints to fancy restaurants, the food service industry can get pretty hectic. Keeping things spick and span is crucial for maintaining a hygienic and efficient kitchen. Our MOBILE Clean & Sweep Shadow Boards offer a practical way to organize cleaning tools and supplies, reducing physical stress and making cleaning a breeze. So, say goodbye to the chaotic clutter and hello to a more streamlined kitchen.

Healthcare Heroes

In hospitals and medical facilities, quick response times can be a matter of life and death. That’s where our MOBILE Shadow Boards step in. Equipped with the tools you need at the point of use, these boards promote efficiency and accessibility. No more running around searching for medical equipment during emergencies. We’re proud to be part of the solution that keeps our healthcare heroes on top of their game.

Educational Institutions

Schools and universities are hubs of knowledge and learning, but they can also be home to quite the collection of tools and equipment. Our MOBILE Clean & Sweep Shadow Boards offer a space-saving and aesthetic solution to keep everything in order. Teachers, students, and maintenance staff alike will appreciate the ease of access and tidiness these boards bring to the learning environment.

Construction Champions

The construction industry is all about heavy lifting and hard work. With our MOBILE Shadow Boards, you can ensure that the right tools are always within arm’s reach. No more trudging back and forth to the toolshed, wasting precious time. Stay organized, stay efficient, and stay safe on the construction site.

Retail Wonders

Even in the retail world, having a well-organized workspace is vital. Our MOBILE Clean & Sweep Shadow Boards offer a visually appealing way to store and display tools, making it easier for your team to find what they need. From stockrooms to the shop floor, these boards can help retailers keep their spaces neat and tidy.

Customizable Shadow Boards for Business

At ComplianceSigns.com, we understand that every business is unique, with its own specific needs and requirements. That’s why we offer the option of customizing a MOBILE Clean & Sweep Shadow Board tailored exclusively for your business. Imagine having a shadow board that not only organizes your tools but also reflects your brand’s identity with your logo and colors front and center. You get to choose from a variety of materials to match your workspace, ensuring durability and longevity.

Plus, our user-friendly customization process allows you to select the tools that are essential for your operations, making sure you have everything you need at your fingertips. Whether it’s for manufacturing, air transportation, food service, healthcare, or any other industry, our custom MOBILE Shadow Boards guarantee a seamless and efficient experience that aligns perfectly with your business’s unique requirements. Don’t settle for one-size-fits-all solutions; let us help you create a tailor-made shadow board that embodies the essence of your business and enhances productivity like never before.

Get Organized for Safety’s Sake!

At ComplianceSigns.com, our mission is to provide world-class customer care and leading-edge product innovation to support your workplace safety solutions. With these mobile shadow boards, we’re taking safety and efficiency to the next level. So, why wait? Get your MOBILE Shadow Board today and experience the game-changing benefits for yourself!

Check all our 5S Tool Shadow Boards here. Stay safe, stay organized, and keep rocking in your industry!

The post What Industries Can Benefit the Most from Using Mobile Shadow Boards? appeared first on SafeWork Insider.

The answer is simple – braille stairway and elevator signs.

What are Braille Stairway and Elevator Signs?

Braille stairway and elevator signs are signs that are designed to help people with visual impairments navigate their way around a building. Using a system of raised dots that spell out the words in braille, these signs can be read by touch. To be effective, they should be placed near stairways and elevators, and they include information such as the floor number, the direction of the stairway or elevator, and other crucial information. This allows anyone with visual impairments in your building to find their way easily and safely.

Why are Braille Stairway and Elevator Signs Important?

Braille stairway and elevator signs play a vital role in ensuring the safety and accessibility of your business to those with significant visual impairments. Without these signs, those customers, workers, or visitors face potential harm and injuries while navigating your building. But here’s the thing: Braille signs go beyond just safety; they are also a legal requirement under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

The ADA mandates businesses to provide accommodations for individuals with disabilities, including visual impairments. So, installing Braille signage near stairways and elevators isn’t just about safety; it’s a must-do to keep your business in line with ADA regulations.

But there is an even bigger reason why your business should have these signs. They are more than just a legal obligation; they are your secret weapon in accident prevention. By providing clear and concise information about the location and direction of stairways and elevators, Braille signage minimizes the risk of accidents while people navigate through your building. Think about it: fewer accidents mean fewer lawsuits and legal headaches.

And here’s the bonus: by prioritizing Braille signage, you create a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. It’s not just about meeting legal requirements; it’s about protecting your business from potential accidents, injuries, and their financial consequences.

Investing in Braille stairway and elevator signs helps to ensure the safety of your customers and employees while covering your legal bases. It’s a win-win situation.

NFPA Rules

In addition to the ADA, Braille stairway and elevator signs also meet the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) rules. These rules require that all buildings have emergency evacuation plans in place, and that these plans include Braille signage near stairways and elevators. This is important because in the event of an emergency, people with visual impairments need to be able to quickly and safely evacuate the building.

If you’re looking for high-quality Braille stairway and elevator signs for your business, ComplianceSigns.com has a wide selection to choose from. Check out our selection of Braille stairway signs and Braille elevator signs. With our high-quality braille signs, you can ensure that your business is compliant with the ADA and NFPA rules, and provide a safe and accessible environment for all of your customers and employees.

Braille stairway and elevator signs are an important part of any business that wants to provide a safe and accessible environment for all of its customers and employees. Not only do these signs comply with the ADA and NFPA rules, but they also help to prevent accidents and injuries. If you’re looking for high-quality Braille stairway and elevator signs for your business, be sure to check out ComplianceSigns.com.

The post Without Braille Stairway and Elevator Signs, Your Business Could Be Going Down! appeared first on SafeWork Insider.

Service requirements for fire extinguishers vary based on the class of extinguisher. The National Fire Protection Association and U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration call for monthly and yearly inspections of all extinguishers and more extensive fire extinguisher service after several years. Here are seven tips to help you stay prepared to promote fire safety.

1. Plan Ahead for Fire Extinguisher Service

The best way to prepare for servicing fire extinguishers is to know exactly when each extinguisher is due for external and internal inspection, testing and maintenance. It is also important to note which inspections can be performed by non-specialists and when certified professionals should inspect or service fire extinguisher installations.

A non-professional can perform external monthly inspections after professional installation. During yearly external inspections, experts can identify issues that require maintenance or internal fire extinguisher service. The type of extinguisher determines the frequency of further testing. Pressure extinguishers should be serviced and recharged every six years. Plan for hydrostatic testing every 10 to 12 years.

2. Perform Monthly External Inspections

Monthly inspections can be performed by non-certified employees. These external inspections mandated by the NFPA and OSHA involve several steps:

• Make sure fire extinguishers are in designated positions.
• Fire extinguishers should be visible.
• Signage should indicate extinguisher locations.
• Each extinguisher should be easy to access.
• Extinguisher pressure gauges should be functional.
• Fire extinguishers should be filled.

After each inspection, the employee who inspects extinguishers should record the month and year of inspection and their name. Inspection records can be kept on a tag attached to an extinguisher or in a digital or paper file. 

Monthly inspections can indicate whether fire extinguisher service by certified professionals is likely to be necessary in advance of annual maintenance. Extinguishers stored in corrosive or humid environments or dented equipment may require immediate repair or replacement.

3. Schedule Yearly External Maintenance

Every year, a certified inspector should inspect fire extinguishers and provide external maintenance. In accordance with NFPA 10, this full maintenance check should cover all mechanical parts. One of the best ways to stay prepared for fire safety is to schedule fire extinguisher service around the same time as inspections or maintenance of other fire protection systems such as alarms and sprinklers.

An annual inspection can be a good opportunity for an expert to check the pressure gauge. While non-professionals can verify that these gauges are functional during monthly inspections, certified experts can determine whether an extinguisher is overcharged or undercharged and in need of recharging. Experts can also identify whether an extinguisher has a broken seal or is missing a locking pin. These components prevent the accidental release of contents and ensure that extinguishers are ready to use in the event of an emergency.

4. Set Up Internal Examinations Based on Extinguisher Class

The class of extinguisher will determine how frequently internal examinations should take place. Carbon dioxide extinguishers should be tested every five years at 5/3 of the service pressure indicated by a stamp on the cylinder. NFPA 10 mandates fire extinguisher service and recharging every six years.

An internal examination of a fire extinguisher involves discharging the suppressant, refilling the cylinder with dry chemical and carbon dioxide or nitrogen, replacing the valve stem and O-rings, testing the extinguisher for leaks and applying a six-year compliance sticker and annual inspection tag. You can stay prepared for fire safety by making sure each extinguisher is the right class and contains the most effective fire suppressants for fire hazards in any area when returning extinguishers to the designated locations.

5. Arrange for Hydrostatic Testing Every 5 or 12 Years

Hydrostatic testing involves stripping down extinguishers to just the shell and hose. The extinguisher is filled with pressurized water, drained and dried before being reassembled and recharged. Extinguishers that leak, become distorted or have couplings move permanently fail hydrostatic testing and should be condemned. 

The frequency of hydrostatic testing depends on the class and type of extinguisher. You should plan to service fire extinguisher equipment containing carbon dioxide, pressured water or wet chemicals every five years. Dry chemical fire extinguishers should undergo this fire extinguisher service every 12 years. Certified professionals will replace the tamper seal, service collar, labels and tags on extinguishers that are ready to return to service.

6. Use Signs To Indicate Extinguisher Location and Status

Signage should direct building occupants toward fire extinguisher locations. You can use signs with symbols and directional arrows, display OSHA notices or post other important fire safety information. Labels and signs can indicate the class of fire extinguishers, while informational posters can help occupants choose the right extinguisher for any fire.

OSHA safety signs can serve as reminders for site visit inspections. A notice that reminds inspectors to check eye wash and fire extinguishers on a monthly basis, make a tag entry, sign and date inspection tags can promote regulatory compliance. Signs can also indicate access requirements for fire suppression equipment, such as the need to break a glass case to remove an extinguisher for use. Signage is also available to indicate the status of extinguishers that are charged, condemned or discharged after fire extinguisher service.

7. Keep Service Records for Fire Extinguishers

You should keep records of all fire extinguisher inspections, maintenance and tests. Note the month and year of each inspection and the name of the inspector on a tag attached to the extinguisher or in a digital or paper file. Maintaining current records of fire extinguisher inspections and maintenance is the best way to prepare for future extinguisher service. 

Stay Up to Date on Fire Extinguisher Service

Building managers should be aware of the age and condition of every fire extinguisher in a facility. While it is only necessary to maintain monthly inspection records for the past year on fire extinguisher tags, keeping longer digital or paper logs of fire extinguisher service can be helpful for scheduling the service fire extinguisher equipment requires after five years or 12 years. Order the fire equipment signs and labels you need to promote safety at ComplianceSigns.com.

The post Stay Prepared: 7 Tips for Fire Extinguisher Service appeared first on SafeWork Insider.

Lead is a toxic metal that, if consumed, can cause serious health issues. And yet, there are no federal laws that regulate the levels of lead in school drinking water, leaving it up to the states and individual schools or school districts to determine how to address the issue — no small responsibility.

While the removal of lead from the drinking water is the ideal solution, it’s also a costly one. So there are a few ways schools can chip away at the problem over time. And the first step is becoming educated on the issue.

Current legislature regarding lead in drinking water

As of 2023, there are no federal laws that require schools to test the drinking water for lead if the school taps into the public water system. The United States also lacks a national health standard for the acceptable levels of lead in the drinking water as various federal agencies have differing thresholds for lead in drinking water.

That means responsibility lies at the state level. And unfortunately, only seven states and Washington, D.C. require lead tests in schools. An additional 17 states have programs for lead testing and elimination that are voluntary. But even these state-led initiatives vary wildly in terms of how much lead is acceptable, how the test are conducted, costs for lead testing, and access to the testing data.

Water testing services Tap Score and SimpleLab, conducted a nationwide investigation of state efforts to deal with lead contamination in drinking water in schools and daycare centers. The study looked at the number of schools in the state that tested for lead, the testing program’s rigor, and what measures were taken to address the issue if lead was found in the water supply. From there, Tap Score and SimpleLab gave each state a letter grade as to the effectiveness of their programs. Of the 50 states, 31 received an F, failing the test and most have no policy at all.

Similarly, a 2018 report written by the U.S. Government Accountability Office found that an estimated 41% of school districts — serving 12 million students — had not tested school water for lead in 2016 or 2017, and another 16% of school districts didn’t know whether they had tested for lead. Of those that did test for lead (43% of school districts surveyed, which represents 35 million students), about 37% found elevated lead levels in their school’s water.

The dangers of lead in school drinking water

Lead exposure — such as drinking from contaminated water — can cause serious health problems. Even at low levels, lead affects the central nervous system and can cause brain damage, kidney disease, anemia, and even death. Studies have shown that exposure to lead can lower IQ, decrease focus, cause learning disabilities, decrease growth, and even lead to violent crime and delinquency.

Children are particularly vulnerable because their bodies absorb more lead than adults. This is complicated by the fact that they spend much of their time in schools and daycare facilities. And according to the Environmental Protection Agency, these facilities may have higher elevated lead levels because they’re closed on weekends, holidays, and extended breaks, allowing lead in the pipes and fixtures to seep into the water supply.

How schools can create a safer environment for children

Because there aren’t national standards or laws to protect children from lead exposure in schools, that responsibility often falls on the district or individual school. Fortunately, most lead contamination comes from the faucet fixture or pipes in the school rather than the greater water distribution system. Unfortunately, it can be a challenge to pinpoint the source of the contamination and potentially expensive to fix.

A recent report from John Rumpler and Matt Casale from the Environment America Research & Policy Center and the U.S PIRG Education Fund recommended a few steps districts can take to make the drinking water in schools more safe for children. The report suggests that districts:

• Test for lead at all water outlets at all schools used for drinking or cooking and have a protocol for what to do if lead is found.
• Replace fountains with water stations that have filters certified to remove lead.
• Install, test and maintain filters certified to remove lead on all taps used for drinking or cooking.

For schools and districts that cannot afford to replace lead fixtures or pipes, one option is to invest in safety signage that identifies faucets that are not safe to drink from. By posting next to sinks in science labs, bathrooms, locker rooms, and cafeterias that warn of lead exposure, you can limit the risk of a student drinking water contaminated with lead.

ComplianceSigns has a variety of options for handwashing only signs that discourage school-age children from drinking from contaminated faucets. Browse our collection today and post signs near any faucet that has tested positive for lead contamination or that you suspect may cause lead exposure. This simple step creates a healthier, more successful student body and may even save a life.

The post The Dangers of Lead in School Drinking Water, and How to Keep Children Safe appeared first on SafeWork Insider.

Now, think of someone else coming into your business, but this person is blind. How do they find their way? A person who is blind or has a significant visual impairment may not be able to see your signs, but they can feel them. That’s why it’s essential that you provide signage that allows the visually impaired to find their way in your facility. We call these signs braille wayfinding signs and they play a role in keeping your business friendly and helpful to all who enter as well as staying ADA-compliant. 

Braille is a writing system that utilizes raised dots to indicate the location of objects, rooms, and facilities. Braille was developed in 1821 by Louis Braille and has been used ever since as a way for the visually impaired to navigate through their surroundings. He lost his sight at age 3 and when he was 12 years old he attended school for the blind where he learned how to read and write using raised dots. This allowed him to not only access information but also gave him independence because now he could go anywhere without needing someone else’s help! He improved upon the system, which is now named for him. 

What is Braille?

Today, braille is used extensively across the world. Braille signs are an essential tool for accessibility to provide important information  – especially braille wayfinding signs. The ADA mandates the use of braille signs in certain public areas to ensure people with visual impairment can navigate buildings and understand their surroundings.

Legal Requirements for Braille Wayfinding Signs

Braille wayfinding signs are required by law to be installed in public spaces, but there are some guidelines that you should follow. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires that all public buildings and facilities be accessible to people with disabilities. This includes providing information about your facility in braille or other tactile formats, such as raised lettering and symbols on signs.

The International Building Code (IBC), which is used throughout the United States and Canada, also requires certain types of signage to include tactile characters or graphics for those who are visually impaired or blind. These requirements apply only when the sign is placed within 4 feet (1.2 meters) of the ground level and does not obstruct any doors or passageways within 30 inches (76 cm). In addition, local regulations may require additional signage depending on your business type and where your business is located.

Braille wayfinding signs are  a simple, effective way to improve accessibility and safety. Some of the reasons you should consider adding these signs to your facility include:

The Benefits of Adding Braille Wayfinding Signs

• Accessibility: Braille wayfinding signs are accessible to all people with visual impairments, including those who are blind or have low vision. This means that anyone can use the signs to navigate their way around the building or facility they’re in, regardless of whether they have any other disabilities or not.
• Safety: Braille wayfinding signs help ensure that everyone stays safe while navigating unfamiliar spaces by providing information about hazards such as stairs and elevators so that people know where these things are located before they get too close to them (or worse yet fall down them).

Creating an Effective Braille Wayfinding System

The first step in creating an effective braille wayfinding system is planning. Review your facility to determine what type of signage you need, how many signs you need, and where they should go.

Designing a braille wayfinding system involves determining what text and braille characters will be used on each sign, determining whether or not graphics should be added, and deciding which colors look best in your facility. After designing comes installation–and this step requires careful consideration as well! For example: Should we install the signs above eye level? Or below? How far apart should they be placed from one another? Make sure you know the ADA regulations because they may dictate some of these decisions for you.

ComplianceSigns.com is Ready to Help!

Not all signs that have raised dots are truly ADA-compliant braille signs. Trust ComplianceSigns.com, your braille sign expert. We’ve been trusted for years by thousands of businesses to provide correct, fully compliant, top quality ADA braille signs for bathrooms, room names, exits, elevators and stairs, no smoking areas and much more. We offer dozens of color combinations and have also developed a variety of resources to help you understand braille signage requirements. 

Help everyone who comes into your business to find their way. For braille wayfinding signage, turn to the experienced team at ComplianceSigns.com. We know the way!

Learn More:

• What Every Business Should Know About Braille Signs
• What to Know about ADA Braille Signs

The post Showing the Way: Braille Wayfinding Signs and Your Business appeared first on SafeWork Insider.

To aid the visually impaired, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires that all public spaces, including businesses, have braille signs with raised tactile letters to mark permanent rooms and spaces. So what does that mean for your business?

What is Braille?

Before we go any further, let’s clarify this first. Braille is a system of raised dots that allows visually impaired people to read using their sense of touch. It was first developed by a young man named Louis Braille in the early 1800s. Braille was blinded at a young age and was determined to develop a method of writing for the visually impaired. His system came to the United States in 1860 and continued to spread until it became accepted worldwide.

Part of the braille alphabet used on ADA braille signs.

Today, braille signs are an essential tool for accessibility to provide important information to visually impaired individuals. The ADA mandates the use of braille signs in certain public areas to ensure people with visual impairment can navigate buildings and understand their surroundings.

The use of braille signs has become increasingly important as the population ages, and the number of individuals with visual impairments continues to grow. According to the National Federation of the Blind, there are an estimated 7.6 million visually impaired people in the United States alone, and this number is expected to double by 2030. As such, braille signage is an essential component of accessibility. Businesses must ensure that visually impaired individuals have equal access to their public spaces.

What is the Americans with Disabilities Act?

The Americans with Disabilities Act was passed by the United States Government in 1990 to protect disabled individuals’ rights in all public spaces. It’s goal is to help provide, “equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities in public accommodations, employment, transportation, state and local government services, and telecommunications.” One of the facets of this regulation is that businesses with publicly available spaces are required to have ADA-compliant braille signs.

What are ADA-Compliant Signs?

The ADA Standards for Accessible Design, published by the Department of Justice, requires that signs marking permanent rooms and spaces must have raised characters and braille. The California Title 24 standard further requires braille signs for exits, floor identification, means of egress and areas of refuge. Directional and information signs are not required to have braille.

There are many regulations governing what makes a braille sign ADA compliant. For one, the design and layout of the braille dots must meet strict specifications:

The braille system uses domed dots specifically arranged in cells to represent letters or words.

Here are some of the other braille sign requirements your business should know:

• The sign must use raised characters that are uppercase, sans serif and free of oblique, script or italic characters.
• Raised characters are required to be raised a minimum of 1/32 inch from the background.
• The height of raised characters should be between 5/8 inch and 2 inches.
• Text must be accompanied by Grade 2 braille dots positioned directly below the corresponding text.
• Braille must be separated a minimum of 3/8 inch from raised text and other raised objects.
• Braille dots are to be domed or rounded, not flat or squared.
• The sign must have a non-glare finish.
• The signs should use high-contrasting colors to make them easy to read, such as white letters on black or dark blue background or black lettering on white background.
• The lettering for tactile signs must be positioned between 48 and 60 inches off the floor.
• Signs marking permanent rooms should be placed adjacent to the door leading to the
  room.

Why Braille Signage Matters for Your Business

According to the CDC, one of every four Americans lives with some sort of disability. That’s 61 million people. By adding ADA braille signs, you’re ensuring the safety of any guests who may have a disability, whether you can see it or not. This also gives your business a feeling of inclusiveness and welcome that makes you look good. It shows that you truly value your customers, employees, and guests.

Examples of braille signs commonly found in businesses and public places.

It’s not just about doing the right thing for those with disabilities, it’s also about protecting your business. If your business has over 15 employees, the ADA regulations for signage apply and that means you need to follow them or you could face:

• Fines of up to $75,000 for the first offense and $150,000 for subsequent offenses
• Potential lawsuits from anyone who gets hurt or even inconvenienced because your signage is not up to code

The good news is that it’s a lot easier to make your business ADA compliant than it is to handle a major fine or lawsuit. Complete an audit of your business to see where you need braille signs. Once you have your list, it’s as easy as finding your braille signs here, ordering, and installing at the proper height.

Braille signs are an essential tool for accessibility, and the ADA’s standards for Braille signs have helped to ensure that visually impaired individuals have equal access to public spaces. By continuing to advocate for accessibility and inclusion, you can protect your business, your customers, and work towards a more equitable society for all.

Why Trust ComplianceSigns.com for ADA-Compliant Braille Signs?

There are many places to buy signs with dots that claim to be compliant braille. But you should trust ComplianceSigns.com for your braille sign needs. Why? Otherwise, you could end up with a flat tin sign with small “braille” circles and text simply printed onto it. (Yes, this really happened!)

ComplianceSigns is a braille sign expert, trusted for years by thousands of businesses to provide correct, fully compliant, top quality ADA braille signs for bathrooms, room names, exits, elevators and stairs, no smoking areas and much more. We offer dozens of color combinations and have also developed a variety of resources to help you understand braille signage requirements. So don’t take a chance. Trust the braille sign experts.

Braille Sign Resources:

• Browse Braille Signs at ComplianceSigns.com
• Braille Wayfinding Signs and Your Business
• What To Know About ADA Braille Signs

ComplianceSigns Braille Sign Features:

The post What Every Business Should Know About Braille Signs appeared first on SafeWork Insider.

Best Parking Permit Practices for Management

To create a new parking policy for your company, start with careful evaluation. Consider the best way to improve safety and how your parking plan contributes to that. This should include whether there will be different types of permits for different people, who is in charge of issuing permits and how long passes are valid before they expire. Determine whether you will use numbered permits, which allows you to trace each one to a specific person.

Consider different types of business parking permits. Flexible plastic hang tags that dangle from the rear-view mirror are easy to use, easily transferrable and a good choice for short-term use. Window cling permits are applied to windows from the inside, making them a good long-term choice. Cling decals are less likely to be lost, shared or stolen.

You can also post custom signs that clearly mark your business parking areas. If possible, add your logo to both the signs and the parking decals to minimize confusion for your staff and visitors.

Communicating Parking Rules To Staff

When you create permits for a parking area, you can do several things to avoid hassle or problems. First, make sure the administrators of the parking system collect all pertinent information from anyone who gets a pass. This includes driver’s license numbers and vehicle plate numbers. There should also be clear directions for how workers can update their information.

Next, make specific rules for displaying permits. The parking permit should be clearly seen. Use training and visual aids to help employees place decals in the proper place. Place signage to coordinate business parking permits with the spots they allow access to. For instance, you can get parking signs in colors to match permits so everyone can quickly see where to go.

Parking enforcement also needs protocols to prevent people from sharing permits. There is a potential security risk whenever an authorized person or vehicle uses another person’s assigned permit. Ensure that all workers know not to give their decals to anyone else and create a policy for dealing with lost or stolen permits. It’s also good to limit access to the parking lot or garage so parking attendants or security personnel can check credentials at just a few designated points.

Train your staff so everyone knows the permitted parking locations and how you will check the passes. This will reduce confusion and frustration for everyone.

Simplify Operations

Parking is a logistical reality for any facility that gathers workers together in one place. To make sure everyone has proper access to parking, issuing decals for employees is a good idea. You can increase security while offering workers clear options for where to park.

To get the business parking permit decals and signs you need, check out the parking control sign and permit options at ComplianceSigns.com.

The post Do You Use Business Parking Permits? Here’s Everything You Need To Know appeared first on SafeWork Insider.

However, as with most large machinery used on the job, there are safety risks if workers don’t know how to use a compactor correctly. That’s why it’s so important to be aware of the potential dangers and make sure everyone in your workplace understands what an industrial trash compactor is and how to use the compactor safely.

Compactor Safety Tips

Safety should always be the top priority when working with any machinery. By being vigilant and aware of the right practices, you can protect your staff and workspace while using the compactor. Here are eight essential compactor safety tips to minimize risk while using your industrial trash compactor.

1. Fully Train Your Staff

The first and most important thing is training your staff to correctly use an industrial trash compactor. This includes providing comprehensive training on how to operate the machine and what safety protocols to follow.

Let your staff practice using the compactor in a safe environment until they are comfortable with the operation. Also, don’t allow your staff to independently operate the compactor until they are fully trained and well aware of trash compactor safety protocols.

2. Place the Compactor in a Correct Location

Where you keep your industrial trash compactor is crucial. It must be placed in an area that is easily accessible for your staff, away from flammable materials. It’s easy to check this compactor safety tip off the list when your machine is delivered.

Space is needed around the unit for proper operations, repair and maintenance. Thus, it makes sense to keep the compactor in an open space. Also, it should be close to your waste storage area for swift operations.

3. Keep Arms, Hands and Every Other Body Part Away

When using an industrial trash compactor, it’s essential to keep your arms, hands and other body parts away from the machine. Never, under any circumstances, should workers reach into the compactor to reposition waste that might be causing the machine to clog.

Instead, workers should use a long rod to reach any debris that needs to be moved or relocated inside the compactor. Doing so helps your staff stay safe and helps the compactor operate as intended.

4. Always Use the Safety Equipment

Your staff must use all the necessary safety equipment when operating the compactor. These construction site essentials include PPE such as hard hats, safety goggles, ear protection and long clothing to protect skin from sharp objects. You may also need stairs, platforms or railings close to the feed-chute opening for safe access.

Check manufacturer recommendations or talk with your compactor management company (if you’ve appointed one) regarding mandatory safety equipment and PPE to use while operating the compactor. You must also regularly inspect these safety tools to ensure they function correctly.

5. Never Overload the Compactor

This is one of the most crucial compactor safety tips for industrial trash compactors. Overloading the compactor can lead to a breakdown resulting in costly repairs. It can also put workers at risk of injury. Make sure to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer and never exceed the compactor’s weight limit.

The weight restrictions of the compactor should be made clear to everyone who is supposed to use it.

6. Check for Animals Inside Before Loading

Before you load any trash into the compactor, check for animals that may have gotten inside. If you find any animals in the compactor, remove them before loading the compactor. Keep the compactor door closed when not using it to prevent intrusion by cats and raccoons.

7. Follow Correct Door Safety Practices

When using your industrial trash compactor, follow correct door safety practices:

• Never open the door while the compactor runs
• Lock doors during use to prevent any mess or accident
• Keep doors closed when the compactor is not in use
  

8. Keep Up with Repair & Maintenance Schedules

Following the manufacturer’s repair and maintenance schedule is integral to compactor safety and efficiency. Additionally, regular inspection and cleaning of the compactor can help prevent breakdowns and reduce the risk of injury. Never use an industrial trash compactor that requires maintenance. A compactor management company can ensure a routine maintenance schedule of your garbage compactor that adheres to manufacturer recommendations.

Following these eight essential compactor safety tips will help your team operate your industrial compactor safely for years to come.

Industrial trash compactor resources:

• Smart tips to reduce construction site waste
• Visit Compactor Management Company
• Browse construction safety signs at ComplianceSigns.com

About the Author:

Erich Lawson is passionate about saving the environment through effective recycling techniques and modern innovations. He works with Compactor Management Company and writes on a variety of topics related to recycling, including tips and advice on how balers, compactors and shredders can be used to reduce industrial waste. He loves helping businesses understand how to lower their monthly garbage bills and increase revenue from recycling.

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New York Lactation Room Requirements

Under the new rules, a lactation room or location must be:

• in close proximity to the work area
• well lit
• shielded from view
• free from intrusion by others

At a minimum, the room or location must contain a chair, a small table or surface on which the employee may place a breast pump and other personal items, nearby access to running water, and an electrical outlet.

The new law (S.4844-B/A.1236-A) applies to all employers. However, employers may be exempt from the requirements of the pumping location if it would impose an undue hardship on the employer.

A Written Policy is Required

Further, the new law also requires employers to adopt and distribute a policy developed by the New York State Department of Labor regarding the rights of nursing mothers in the workplace. Employers must provide the policy to each employee upon hire and annually thereafter, as well as to employees returning to work after the birth of a child.

Workplace Lactation Rules Across the U.S.

Many other states have laws related to breastfeeding and pumping. Federal law also sets standards for workplace expression. Section 7 of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) requires employers to provide reasonable break time for non-exempt employees to express breast milk for their nursing children for one year after the child’s birth each time the employee has need to express. Employers are also required to provide a place, other than a bathroom, that is shielded from view and free from intrusion from coworkers and the public, which may be used by an employee to express breast milk.

Employer Resources Regarding Workplace Lactation

• Review the New York Law
• U.S. Department of Labor guidance on break time for nursing mothers
• Ideas for providing break time and space in various industries
• Lactation and Mother’s Room signs for the workplace

The post New York State Expands Workplace Lactation Laws appeared first on SafeWork Insider.