With businesses now being able to access good quality label printers and LabelSuite Software, it is easier than ever to create safety labels to use within the workplace. Being an essential part of health and safety, they must be produced in line with occupational safety legislation to not only serve their purpose but to avoid legal issues. For businesses who print their labels with little knowledge of what is expected, there is a range of common mistakes which can be made:
Not providing the correct information
The contents of a safety level are critical and any incorrect details could lead to significant issues, including harm to workers and legal trouble. Before going to print, the contents of safety labels must be thoroughly checked, ensuring they are easy to understand, contain the right information, and comply with industry regulations.
Not keeping up to date
Once a safety label is created, it does not last forever. It is essential to regularly review safety labels to ensure that any changes in the workplace have been reflected and any changes in regulations have been complied with. If a label becomes out of date, it can be confusing for those reading it and provide them with incorrect guidance, limiting its effectiveness completely.
Not considering the material of the labels
Safety labels must be durable and long-lasting, using especially tough materials in harsh environments where the condition of the label is bound to deteriorate quicker. By using materials that cannot maintain their condition over time, the safety labels are likely to fade, wear down, or peel off. This mistake is more common than you’d think so it is important to sufficiently research the different materials used for safety labels, choosing the most appropriate for the nature of the job.
Not carrying out testing
Safety labels must be thoroughly tested to ensure that they are fit for use in the intended environment they will be placed. The testing process should consist of carrying out tests in different temperatures, humidity levels, and exposures to various chemicals, establishing their durability and adhesion in extreme settings. Without going through this process, it can result in going through the time and expense of printing off safety labels that do not last long and fail to display the essential information.
Not considering the design of the label
When designing a safety label, it is crucial to consider key factors such as the font size, color, and contrast of the text against the background. The label must be easy to read and any key warnings should be visible from a distance to provide nonverbal communication cues. Many businesses appoint a designer to help create their safety labels as the way the message is conveyed plays a critical role in its effectiveness.
Not choosing a suitable adhesive
Safety labels that do not stick properly can quickly fall off or become unstuck on the edges, creating a safety issue in the workplace. Adhesives must be compatible with the surface the label is applied to, with only certain adhesives being compatible with surfaces that can become oily or damp. To ensure proper adhesion, the surface must be wiped clean before application and then left to air dry.
Additional Resources
- Pharmaceutical Labeling– creativesafetysupply.com
- How Long Can Labels Be Stored After Printing?– label-printers.org
- The Best Way to Apply Floor Tape in the Workplace– facilityfloortape.com
- Best Practices to Consider When Creating Pipe Markings– pipemarking.net
- How to Remove Floor Marking Tape Without Leaving Residue?– floormarkingtape.org
- Visuals for the Workplace: Safety Signs & Labels– safetyvisuals.com
- The Importance of Safety Leadership in the Workplace– whatisengineering.org
- A Guide to Safety Labels– safetylabelmakers.com
- 4 Tips For Writing A Workplace Health & Safety Policy– infographicsdirectory.org