The Law place duties on employers in respect of risks to their employees and in these particular Regulations, to ensure that safety signs are in place. Further duties are placed upon them with regard to contractors, and their employees.
Although the Regulations do not apply directly to the self-employed or to other people not under the Employer's direct control (ie visitors), employers and contractors will have a duties under the Management Regs and the Health and Safety at Work Act to ensure, as far as is reasonably practicable, the health and safety of others not in their employ but who may be affected by their work activity.
The Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996 makes it clear that safety signs and signals are required where, despite putting in place all other relevant measures, a significant risk to the health and safety of employees and others remains. It further states that signs should be:
Signs should be provided where their use can further reduce the risk to employees and others as a result of risk assessment carried out under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999. They should assist in reducing the residual risk once control measures have been put in place. There are other legal provisions which also require the fitment of signs such as Fire Safety signs where their provision is mandatory. If in doubt and to receive further guidance, check with your local enforcing authority for fire safety.
Proshield Safety Signs provide a huge range of safety signs that can assist you in meeting your obligations under the Regulations. Signs are held in stock and are available for same-day despatch (if ordered before 2.30pm)
We also have a full bespoke service available. Please contact us with your requirements
Further reading: http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/l64.htm
