The types of injuries we commonly see when visitors aren’t properly prepared include:
- Slips, trips and falls: Manufacturing floors can be cluttered with cables, materials, and uneven surfaces. Visitors unfamiliar with the layout are particularly vulnerable.
- Struck-by incidents: Forklifts, moving machinery, and transported goods pose a serious threat. Visitors may not be aware of operating zones or understand warning signals.
- Caught-in/between injuries: Machinery has moving parts. Without training on safe distances and lockout/tagout procedures, visitors could be seriously injured.
- Exposure to hazardous substances: Many manufacturing processes involve chemicals, dusts, or fumes. Visitors need to know about potential hazards and appropriate protective measures.
- Hearing loss: High noise levels are common. Visitors require hearing protection in designated areas.
These injuries can lead to significant costs – medical expenses, lost productivity, and potential legal ramifications. More importantly, they can cause serious harm to individuals. To minimise these risks, we recommend the following:
- Implement a mandatory visitor induction process: This should include a safety briefing covering potential hazards, emergency procedures, and required PPE.
- Clearly define restricted areas: Use signage and physical barriers to prevent visitors from entering dangerous zones without authorised escort.
- Provide appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Ensure visitors have and correctly use safety glasses, high-visibility vests, and hearing protection where required.
- Escort all visitors: A trained employee should accompany visitors at all times, reinforcing safety instructions and providing guidance.
Prioritising visitor safety isn’t just about compliance; it’s about demonstrating a genuine commitment to wellbeing. A robust visitor management system, with a strong focus on safety training, is an essential component of a safe and productive manufacturing environment. To further assess your current visitor management procedures and identify areas for improvement, we suggest conducting a comprehensive risk assessment of your facility.
