Is your ADA signage ready for a makeover?
No, we’re not talking about that big sign out front with your company name and logo on it – that sign looks great, by the way!
We’re talking about all those tiny, little room identification signs and other ADA-compliant signs plastered throughout public buildings and parking lots – yes, those ones! You’ve probably never thought about replacing them, but that’s because you never realized how much of an eyesore they were – until now.
They’re outdated, don’t match your company’s brand, lack a quality design, and look like they’re from the 1980s (because they probably are). Sure, they satisfy their purpose – but that’s about it!
Don’t worry – ADA Central is here to save the day. Our custom ADA signs allow you a little more freedom when designing your ADA signage. Tell us what you need, and we’ll help you bring it to life!
You can only customize an ADA-compliant sign so much before it starts losing compliance.
For example, tactile signs must feature a high level of contrast, a non-glare finish, a sans serif font, and raised characters repeated in Grade 2 braille (also known as contracted braille).
The tactile characters must be uppercase, between 5/8“ and 2” in height, raised at least 1/32”, at least 1/8“ apart from one another, and have a border of at least 3/8“ along the top and sides.
There’s even a specific way to mount it – ensuring it’s on the latch side of the door and at least 48 inches above the floor, but no higher than 60 inches. Failure to meet ADA requirements makes it difficult for people with disabilities to not only find the sign, but also read it.
As much as you want to change everything about the design of your ADA signs, it’s not always possible – in fact, it could be against the law! If you want to avoid a $75,000 fine from the government, contact us!
Look, we get it – every business is different, and cookie-cutter designs aren’t for everyone. The littlest things often make the biggest difference, and the same rings true with your braille signs!
Maybe you want all your ADA signs to be the same color or want your logo featured in the top right – either way, we’ve got you covered!
The truth is there are a lot of things you can do to add a little pizzazz to your ADA signage. Not only can you change the shape, size, color, and text, but you can also add certain symbols, logos, and any other branding elements you can think of.
If those generic ADA designs aren’t cutting it for you, here’s what you can do to fix it:
Most traditional ADA signs are the same shape (rectangle or square), the same color (black or grey), and the same size (6x4 or 6x6). There usually isn’t a lot of variety, and most businesses don’t have fun with it.
Except for you! Here are some of the things you can change:
Shape. If a square or rectangle sign is too boring, ADA Central also has signs that are oval-shaped, wave-shaped, arch-shaped, and more.
Size. Take your pick of ADA sign size. We have squares that are 8x8, 4x4, and 6x6, rectangles that are 9x6 and 5x2.5, and several other designs that come in various sizes.
Color. With more than 17 colors to choose from, ADA Central gives you plenty of options when adding a little color to your custom ADA signage.
What do you want your ADA sign to say?
It could be something as simple as “No Smoking” or “Laundry Room,” or it could read something a little more engaging – such as “This Is a Smoke-Free Building” or “Please Wash Your Hands Before Leaving.”
Don’t worry – we’ll make sure your custom text gets converted to contracted braille to follow ADA guidelines and always double-check for spelling errors and/or inaccuracies.
Alright, this is where your business gets to shine through.
Your logo, company name, symbols, pictures, and anything else that makes your company unique – this is your chance to mark your territory.
While we still have technical ADA requirements to meet, your ADA specialist will work side-by-side with your design team to ensure we’re meeting ADA compliance standards, and your business’s reputation doesn’t falter.
Before you add your custom ADA signs to your online cart, we’ll ask you to include any other special instructions and/or requests, to ensure your needs are being satisfied.
This is your opportunity to ask about a specific design you didn’t see listed – such as a star, circle, or even a triangle – or a material that better matches the rest of your decor.
If we have any questions about your request, we’ll contact you immediately to clear everything up. Our goal is to create the ADA signs you’ve been dreaming about!
Last but not least, let’s talk about production quantity and delivery speed – two more ways we’re customizing your ADA signs to meet your specific needs.
At ADA Central, we handle orders of any size. And since most signs get made the same day, our shipping speeds are some of the fastest in the country – we won’t keep you waiting!
We have three shipping options, in total – standard production (3-5 business days plus shipping), expedited production (2 business days plus shipping), and emergency production (1 business day plus shipping). We also support wholesale requests, which can also be customized to your needs!
In a world where design and appearance are more important than ever, a quality ADA sign can truly transform any public space. You know what they say – the littlest things often make the biggest difference!
At ADA Central, we understand the ins and outs of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Our goal is to find a balance between giving you the best ADA sign possible, while still maintaining ADA compliance. No more failed inspections, fees, lawsuits, and damaged reputation – those days are behind you!
Contact us today to learn more about ADA signs, what they are, why you need them, and how we can create custom ADA signs to meet your business’s needs – we can’t wait to help you stay compliant for years to come!
]]>Is your ADA signage ready for a makeover?
No, we’re not talking about that big sign out front with your company name and logo on it – that sign looks great, by the way!
We’re talking about all those tiny, little room identification signs and other ADA-compliant signs plastered throughout public buildings and parking lots – yes, those ones! You’ve probably never thought about replacing them, but that’s because you never realized how much of an eyesore they were – until now.
They’re outdated, don’t match your company’s brand, lack a quality design, and look like they’re from the 1980s (because they probably are). Sure, they satisfy their purpose – but that’s about it!
Don’t worry – ADA Central is here to save the day. Our custom ADA signs allow you a little more freedom when designing your ADA signage. Tell us what you need, and we’ll help you bring it to life!
You can only customize an ADA-compliant sign so much before it starts losing compliance.
For example, tactile signs must feature a high level of contrast, a non-glare finish, a sans serif font, and raised characters repeated in Grade 2 braille (also known as contracted braille).
The tactile characters must be uppercase, between 5/8“ and 2” in height, raised at least 1/32”, at least 1/8“ apart from one another, and have a border of at least 3/8“ along the top and sides.
There’s even a specific way to mount it – ensuring it’s on the latch side of the door and at least 48 inches above the floor, but no higher than 60 inches. Failure to meet ADA requirements makes it difficult for people with disabilities to not only find the sign, but also read it.
As much as you want to change everything about the design of your ADA signs, it’s not always possible – in fact, it could be against the law! If you want to avoid a $75,000 fine from the government, contact us!
Look, we get it – every business is different, and cookie-cutter designs aren’t for everyone. The littlest things often make the biggest difference, and the same rings true with your braille signs!
Maybe you want all your ADA signs to be the same color or want your logo featured in the top right – either way, we’ve got you covered!
The truth is there are a lot of things you can do to add a little pizzazz to your ADA signage. Not only can you change the shape, size, color, and text, but you can also add certain symbols, logos, and any other branding elements you can think of.
If those generic ADA designs aren’t cutting it for you, here’s what you can do to fix it:
Most traditional ADA signs are the same shape (rectangle or square), the same color (black or grey), and the same size (6x4 or 6x6). There usually isn’t a lot of variety, and most businesses don’t have fun with it.
Except for you! Here are some of the things you can change:
Shape. If a square or rectangle sign is too boring, ADA Central also has signs that are oval-shaped, wave-shaped, arch-shaped, and more.
Size. Take your pick of ADA sign size. We have squares that are 8x8, 4x4, and 6x6, rectangles that are 9x6 and 5x2.5, and several other designs that come in various sizes.
Color. With more than 17 colors to choose from, ADA Central gives you plenty of options when adding a little color to your custom ADA signage.
What do you want your ADA sign to say?
It could be something as simple as “No Smoking” or “Laundry Room,” or it could read something a little more engaging – such as “This Is a Smoke-Free Building” or “Please Wash Your Hands Before Leaving.”
Don’t worry – we’ll make sure your custom text gets converted to contracted braille to follow ADA guidelines and always double-check for spelling errors and/or inaccuracies.
Alright, this is where your business gets to shine through.
Your logo, company name, symbols, pictures, and anything else that makes your company unique – this is your chance to mark your territory.
While we still have technical ADA requirements to meet, your ADA specialist will work side-by-side with your design team to ensure we’re meeting ADA compliance standards, and your business’s reputation doesn’t falter.
Before you add your custom ADA signs to your online cart, we’ll ask you to include any other special instructions and/or requests, to ensure your needs are being satisfied.
This is your opportunity to ask about a specific design you didn’t see listed – such as a star, circle, or even a triangle – or a material that better matches the rest of your decor.
If we have any questions about your request, we’ll contact you immediately to clear everything up. Our goal is to create the ADA signs you’ve been dreaming about!
Last but not least, let’s talk about production quantity and delivery speed – two more ways we’re customizing your ADA signs to meet your specific needs.
At ADA Central, we handle orders of any size. And since most signs get made the same day, our shipping speeds are some of the fastest in the country – we won’t keep you waiting!
We have three shipping options, in total – standard production (3-5 business days plus shipping), expedited production (2 business days plus shipping), and emergency production (1 business day plus shipping). We also support wholesale requests, which can also be customized to your needs!
In a world where design and appearance are more important than ever, a quality ADA sign can truly transform any public space. You know what they say – the littlest things often make the biggest difference!
At ADA Central, we understand the ins and outs of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Our goal is to find a balance between giving you the best ADA sign possible, while still maintaining ADA compliance. No more failed inspections, fees, lawsuits, and damaged reputation – those days are behind you!
Contact us today to learn more about ADA signs, what they are, why you need them, and how we can create custom ADA signs to meet your business’s needs – we can’t wait to help you stay compliant for years to come!
]]>Servicing, cleaning, repairing, or maintaining machinery comes with a great deal of risk, especially if that equipment involves controlling or containing hazardous energy. Exposure to such energy – whether it be mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, chemical, or thermal energy – could result in injury or death.
That’s why employers need to implement the right procedures, follow the right protocols, and maintain the highest standards when servicing sources of hazardous energy. Not doing so will put your employees at risk and your business’ reputation on the line – two things that only create more complications and issues.
With millions of workers – most of whom are craft workers, electricians, machine operators, and laborers – servicing hazardous equipment every day, the need for proper safety measures has never been higher. Don’t worry – OSHA has your back and is, once again, here to save the day with its regulatory standards.
Most of us know what OSHA is. Short for Occupational Safety and Health Administration, OSHA was created by Congress thanks to the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 and operates under the United States Department of Labor. They’re responsible for ensuring safe and healthy working conditions.
The Control of Hazardous Energy (Lockout/Tagout) (29 CFR 1910.147) is a regulatory standard created by OSHA for those who contain or control hazardous energy. Let’s take a look at some of the specific requirements laid out by the OSHA’s LOTO:
When hazardous energy is released into the open air, time is of the essence. Workers need to disable the machinery or equipment to prevent that release, which requires a certain level of knowledge, training, and awareness. Don’t worry – it’s a small price to pay for the health, safety, and well-being of your employees.
Businesses are expected to implement a quality lockout tagout program, but most business owners don’t know where to start when creating one. If this sounds like you, then we recommend speaking to an OSHA Compliance Assistance Specialist (CAS), who can help ensure you comply with OSHA’s regulations.
It’s important to understand that creating a lockout tagout program is a process. Every program contains more than 80 different elements and it takes time to identify and define each one, but there are five key elements that are more important than the rest. Let’s take a look at what they are and how to comply:
Your lockout tagout procedures need to be clearly documented on an easy-to-read, laminated piece of paper and left by the machine or piece of equipment it’s referring to. This document should tell workers how to shut down, isolate, block, and secure the equipment when hazardous energy is released.
Businesses need to make sure they locate and identify energy control points – which include any valves, switches, breakers, or plugs – to ensure workers know where they are at all times. When labeling the isolation points, use colors, fonts, and styles that are consistent with your energy control procedure documents.
Companies need to make sure they’re properly training their employees to follow protocol in hazardous situations. They should have employee training for authorized employees (most at-risk), affected employees, and all other employees who might be in the surrounding area when tragedy strikes.
A lockout tagout device or energy isolating device is responsible for de-energizing large equipment and machinery in an effort to reduce exposure to hazardous energy. By preventing the transmission and release of energy, a lockout device helps workers temporarily reduce the risk of injury or death while they perform maintenance.
The final element of a quality lockout tagout program is making sure you thoroughly and diligently inspect and audit your program to ensure it meets industry standards on a yearly basis. Since regulations and requirements change every year, it’s important for businesses stay up-to-date and informed.
A lockout tagout program defines the proper procedures workers must take when containing or controlling hazardous energy. It ensures all employees are on the same page when disaster strikes and allows issues to be addressed and fixed in a timely manner – a key characteristic of any successful business.
Here are some of the most prominent benefits of implementing a quality lockout tagout program:
When implemented correctly, a lockout tagout program could be the difference between life and death. Since your business relies on the hard work and dedication of its employees, campaigning for their well-being and ensuring a suitable environment for them to work in are a must – no matter the industry.
One of the key elements to complying with OSHA’s The Control of Hazardous Energy (Lockout/Tagout) (29 CFR 1910.147) is ensuring all energy control points are located, identified, and clearly marked. That means displaying easy-to-read and eye-catching signs in areas where hazardous energy is controlled.
At ADA Central, we manufacture high-quality signs that are used in facilities and warehouses around the world. While a majority of our signs are designed to help your company comply with ADA requirements, they can also be used to comply with certain OSHA standards – including the lockout tagout initiative.
To learn more about how we can help you better comply with the regulations that matter most, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at (308) 221-8226 – you can also visit our online shop to start seeing some of the options we have available. And don’t worry, we can manufacture custom signs for just about anyone.
]]>I don’t know about you, but motivational posters are a must-have in any successful, high-functioning office. It doesn’t matter how big the office is, how many people the office employs, or where the office is located, a motivational poster can change the entire mood in the room – often for the best, of course.
Here are just some of the reasons why motivational posters are a staple in office culture:
There are a lot of ways to decorate an office, but the end goal should always be the same – create an environment that promotes productivity, motivation, collaboration, growth, and efficiency. Employees should be excited about coming to work and should feel like they’re making a difference in their life whenever they clock in.
As the name suggests, motivational posters are those that contain a motivational quote or saying with a simple background design. Many people call them cliche and corny, but that doesn’t mean they’re not thought-provoking, and it certainly doesn’t mean they don’t work – in fact, studies often support the use of motivational posters in the office.
With millions of motivational quotes and sayings floating around the internet these days, there seems to be an endless supply of opportunities when coming up with an idea for a motivational poster. Don’t worry, we’re going to narrow down some of those options and detail some of our favorite sayings of all-time.
Mistakes are bound to happen, and failures are inevitable for any office or business, but those mistakes and failures shouldn’t define who you are or what your office is capable of. If you want to motivate your employees (or yourself) to move past those mistakes, then here are some popular quotes to use:
Offices wouldn’t be able to function if it weren’t for teamwork, communication, and collaboration between employees, managers, owners, clients, and customers alike. If you want to motivate your employees to unify as a team and work better together, then here are some popular quotes for your motivational poster:
In a high-paced, high-pressured work environment, it’s common for negativity and stress to creep its way into the office. While that’s okay, it’s important to recognize it immediately so you can replace it with some affirmations. Here are some good quotes about positivity and optimism to use on your motivational poster:
Setting goals is essential to measuring the success of your company. If you don’t define where you want to be, then you’ll never have that frame of reference to motivate yourself and your employees to do better. Here are some quotes about setting and reaching goals to inspire your next motivational poster:
ith hard work and determination, your office can overcome any challenge they’re presented with. There won’t be anything standing in your way of achieving your goals, and it’ll only motivate everyone more. To inspire your employees to give 110% at all times, try adding one of these quotes to a motivational poster:
Thinking outside of the box is the only way a business will stand out from its competition. With a knack for creativity and a strong imagination, your employees can think their way out of any predicament. To promote a more creative and imaginative environment, use these quotes on your next motivational poster:
Motivational posters have been a staple in office culture for more than 100 years and are found in virtually every office around the world, but they are in no way mandatory. If you can’t find a motivational poster you like or simply don’t want to hang one in the office, then you don’t have to and you won’t be punished for it.
While inspirational posters aren’t mandatory in an office, ADA signs – such as exit signs, restroom signs, reserved parking signs, and break room signs – are required by law. Failure to comply with these rules can result in hefty penalties and fines, but they can also result in reduced customer/employee satisfaction.
At ADA Central, we work closely with individuals, businesses, and organizations to ensure their property complies with ADA guidelines. We not only help you determine what signs you need for your business, but we manufacture the signs and ship them to you – we do the work, so you can focus on your business.
]]>Ladders might be wonderful tools that help people do everything from household tasks to assisting businesses in all kinds of maintenance roles. While ladders are used in many situations by homeowners and employers alike, they can be quite dangerous.
Whenever you're using a ladder, whether a metal ladder, extension ladder, or wooden ladder, you need to know the basics of ladder safety.
By understanding how to keep yourself and others safe while using ladders, you can prevent injuries. Keep reading to learn essential safety tips from the team at ADA Central.
Knowing how to operate a ladder safely is important for everyone. However, if you're a business owner and your employees use ladders at work, you need to be especially aware of ladder safety.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration sets safety guidelines on matters like operating ladders. They will recommend general safety tips, but there are also specific requirements depending on the usage of the ladder and the industry you work in.
Say, for example, you're an electrical company that fixes overhead power lines. Or, if you are a manager of a tree trimming business, in these cases, you likely use more specific electrical equipment and extension ladders that pose bigger risks.
In these cases, it's vital to know the exact safety requirements and how to use the right ladder.
Ladders are not all the same. A step ladder, for example, is much smaller and can't handle much weight. You need to use a ladder that can handle your weight plus any equipment or tools you'll carry with you.
Ladders have different classifications, known as a duty rating, that indicate how much weight they can handle. So, always pick the right ladder for the job.
Remember that the ladder also needs to be tall enough, as you shouldn't get up on the last three feet.
Before you get up on the ladder, you need to check that it's secure and stable. Here are a few things you should do before getting up there, as you don't want to put weight on defective ladders.
Some ladders, called portable ladders, have four legs, while others, called extension ladders, only have two. An extension ladder leans up on the side of a building. Regardless of which type of ladder you're using, you want to set it up correctly to prevent injury.
Here is how to set up your ladder the right way, depending on the type of ladder you have.
A portable ladder should be placed on a level surface. You also want to check that it has non-slip base pads.
If you're using the ladder in a higher-traffic area, place a barricade to keep people away.
Finally, lock the device before climbing up.
For an extension ladder, you need to use the four-to-one ratio approach. This means that the base of the ladder should be one foot away from the wall for every four feet of height.
When using an extension ladder, or any lender that will be signing up above the ground, you can also consider a fall arrest system. This is a harness you wear that can further protect you in case you fall.
Whether you're using a ladder at work or at home, it's important to follow ladder safety guidelines set by OSHA, as they are likely to keep you safer.
They recommend:
Finally, when using a ladder for any purpose, make sure to use common sense. For example, always be aware of overhead power lines and ensure locking devices are working correctly.
Generally, it's also best not to use a ladder alone. Having someone nearby is an added safety measure. This way, if something happens and you do become injured, they can call for help and administer care if necessary.
While it's not a requirement, you can also have someone hold the ladder base for increased safety.
Ladder safety is crucial. But, it's not the only vital safety measure for your business. Commercial buildings and companies need to meet certain OSHA standards and also comply with the Americans With Disabilities Act.
At ADA Central, we make meeting these requirements easy. We provide a wide inventory of safety and ADA-compliant signage options, including handicap signs and custom vinyl options.
Contact us today to learn more or check out our inventory here.
]]>Fire safety might be something you learn about as a child, but as an adult, it's easy to forget even the basics. While you likely see fire extinguishers in commercial buildings, and hopefully have at least one in your home, you may not know what to use this device.
If you're lucky, you've never faced a fire that required a fire extinguisher, so you may have questions about how to use a fire extinguisher correctly. In this guide from ADA Central, we go over all the essentials of fire extinguisher use, including fire extinguisher maintenance and other fire safety tips.
Keep reading to learn how to keep your home or business safe from fires.
Fire extinguishers are important to have around in your home or business. However, they aren't very useful if you don't know how to use them properly. The first thing you must do is ensure you have the right fire extinguisher. ABC extinguishing agents are recommended for use in the home. Some businesses may require a more idealized fire extinguisher, depending on the industry.
It's essential to note that you should only use a fire extinguisher if you know how to use one and feel confident in doing so. You should also not attempt to use an extinguishing agent on a large fire or in a risky situation.
With this in mind, here are the steps you should take to use portable fire extinguishers.
An easy way to remember how to use a fire extinguisher is by following the PASS approach. Here's how it works:
If the fire isn't going out or is nearing your evacuation path, you should leave to safety and wait until the fire department arrives. If you don't follow these steps, you could end up making the fire worse.
Dealing with fires can be quite dangerous, so you always want to be as careful and thorough as possible. Along with following the PASS method for using fire extinguishers, you should follow a few more safety tips, such as:
While no one thinks they'll have a fire in their home, it can happen to anyone. Accidents happen, and you can't always prevent a fire. The most important fire safety equipment to have in your house is working fire alarms.
The second most important is a fire extinguisher. These can put out all kinds of fires, even grease fires and electrical fires. So, they are generally much safer to use than water. They are also generally more effective and safer to operate.
When you have a fire inside your home, start by evacuating your family and calling the fire department. Once you've done these two things, you can use a fire extinguisher to put out the fire, if it's safe to do so.
Make sure your back is to an exit so that you can leave quickly if you need to.
While it's recommended that homes have fire extinguishers, it's required for businesses and commercial buildings. To comply with OSHA, employers need to use a fire extinguisher that's approved by OSHA.
They also need to keep current with inspections and offer annual fire extinguisher training. Finally, businesses must make sure that all the extinguishers are easy to access and marked clearly with signage.
To keep your fire extinguisher in good shape, you should do the following things:
If you’re unsure, err on the side of caution and let the firefighters handle it.
If you own or manage a commercial property, you're required to have fire extinguishers on site. They also need to be well-maintained and up to building code, so anyone in the building can use a fire extinguisher for a fire emergency.
Along with having fire extinguishers in your busing, you also need to ensure you have the correct safety signage to indicate where things like fire escapes and extinguishers are. At ADA Central, we provide a large inventory of ADA-compliant signs, custom vinyl signs, and much more.
Reach out today to learn more or check out our selection of signs for your business.
]]>The world can be a dangerous place. It doesn’t matter if you’re at work, at home, driving to and from, or in a public space – we’re often surrounded by danger, even in the safest of places. Just look at the United States alone, where more than 62 million injuries and 225,000 preventable deaths were reported in 2021.
With injuries and deaths steadily rising, the need for public safety protocols, procedures, standards, and awareness has never been higher. Considering how preventable most injuries and deaths are, we should be doing anything and everything we possibly can to ensure a safe environment for everyone to thrive in.
The good news is there are dozens of health and safety organizations – like the National Safety Council (NSC) – that work together on a daily basis to make the United States, and the world at large, a safer place. It’s important that we not only understand, but appreciate all that these organizations do for us.
The NSC is a mission-based, 501(c)(3) nonprofit, member-driven, public service organization that was established in 1913. Their primary goal is to make the world a safer place by preventing injuries and deaths in some of the most at-risk areas – primarily including the workplace, home, and community.
Here are some of the responsibilities of the National Safety Council:
The National Safety Council operates under four core values – Be Safe, Be Bold, Be Impactful, and Be NSC. As the country’s leading nonprofit safety advocate, the NSC dreams of a world where people everywhere can live a happy, healthy, and rewarding lifestyle without the added risk of injury or death.
More than 2.8 million nonfatal injuries and illnesses were reported in the workplace in 2022 – which is up 7.5% from the year before. And, while the Bureau of Labor Statistics has yet to release 2022 numbers, there were 5,190 fatal work-related injuries reported in 2021 – which was up 8.9% from the year before.
The National Safety Council is committed to providing companies with the resources needed to ensure a safe environment for their employees. They offer workplace safety training, are committed to their ‘Work to Zero’ initiative, and train more than 500,000 First Aid responders every single year – they’re doing it all!
Here are some practical workplace safety tips you can adopt today:
Some of the most common workplace injuries include slips and falls (leading cause), strains, cuts, repetitive use injuries, collisions, and crashes. Some of the most dangerous and at-risk industries include construction, education and health services, agriculture, forestry, fishing, hunting, transportation, and warehousing.
More than 5.4 million medically-consulted injuries in motor vehicle incidents occurred in 2021 (up 11% from 2020 after an 8.3% increase the year prior). Not only that, but another 47,000 drivers and/or passengers died as a result of more than 43,000 car crashes in 2021 – most of which came in October.
The National Safety Council started the ‘Road to Zero Coalition’ with the goal of eliminating all fatalities and driving concern on the road by 2050 – training more than 75 million drivers around the world (both online and in-person). The NSC also founded the ‘Check to Protect’ coalition, as well as the National Child Passenger Safety Board.
Here are some practical roadway safety tips you can adopt today:
Some of the most common roadway injuries include whiplash, back and spinal cord injuries, head and/or brain injuries, bone fractures, psychological injuries, and burns. The most common causes of car crashes include distracted drivers, drowsy drivers, vehicle problems, speeding, aggressive driving, and DUIs.
There were more than 52.5 million medically-consulted injuries and more than 175,500 injury-related deaths reported in homes and communities in 2021 – deaths have increased 96% over the past decade. The death rate per 100,000 population was 52.9% – an increase of 12.2% from the previous year.
The National Safety Council was originally founded on the principles of workplace and roadway safety, but it has since adopted a commitment to home and community safety – which is a good thing since most injuries and deaths happen off the job and away from the roads. Safety should be promoted everywhere!
Here are some practical home and community safety tips you can adopt today:
Some of the most common injuries that happen in the home are due to poisoning, drug overdose, falls, choking, drowning, fire flames, smoke, or mechanical suffocation. You can better protect yourself, your family, your neighbors, and your fellow community members by utilizing the NSC’s tools and resources.
At ADA Central, our goals and values fall in line with those of the National Safety Council. We might be just a sign company to some people, but our commitment to ensuring companies follow ADA standards and regulations is helping keep the workplace, roadway, and community a safe environment for all.
If your company is struggling to comply with ADA requirements, then we can help. Our sales experts are helpful, knowledgeable, and ready to help you meet the demands of the American Disabilities Act, ensuring your business is an inclusive and safe space for employees, customers, guests, and more! Contact us to learn more about our payment services.
]]>Let’s give a quick round of applause for our toes – without them, we wouldn’t be standing or walking the way we do today. Our feet wouldn’t be able to support our body weight, and our sense of balance would disappear immediately. Life as we know it would change drastically, and it wouldn’t change for the better!
With that said, the toes aren’t the first body part we think to protect when getting dressed in the morning – but they should be. They’re some of the most vulnerable and fragile bones in the human body, so we should be doing whatever possible to keep our toes healthy, strong, protected, and out of harm’s way.
Just think about the last time you stubbed your toe or dropped something heavy on the top of your foot – the pain won’t last forever, but it’s excruciating in that moment and can truly put a damper on anyone’s day. Don’t worry – moments like those are 100% avoidable when the proper precautions are taken.
Steel-toe shoes are the gold standard for protective footwear and safety toe shoes. They’re designed with a steel capping over the toes to reinforce the area and provide protection from heavy falling objects – making them a reliable and preferred option for those who work in warehouses with heavy machinery.
Regular shoes are flimsy and unstable over the toe area – since there’s nothing reinforcing this area, your toes are one step away from a potential tragedy. It doesn’t matter if you stub your toe while walking or if something falls on top of your toes while standing, there’s nothing protecting your toes from a disaster.
Of course, none of this is a concern when wearing steel-toe boots or shoes. That’s why employers around the world require their employees to wear protective footwear when working in dangerous, hazardous, or high-risk environments – it’s an investment, but an investment that makes all the difference in the world.
Steel-toe boots are a no-brainer in most situations, but not everyone is on board with them – in fact, some people will do whatever they can to avoid having to wear them. In the interest of full transparency, let’s take a look at some of the most prominent advantages and disadvantages of wearing steel-toe shoes.
First, let’s take a look at the pros of wearing steel-toe shoes or boots:
Next, let’s take a look at the cons of wearing steel-toe shoes or boots:
There’s a longstanding myth about steel-toe shoes that says if something heavy enough were to fall onto the toe, the steel would curl in and cut off your toes. This, of course, has been debunked and is nothing more than a myth – steel-toe boots won’t cut your toes off and are designed to withstand heavy impact.
Steel-toe shoes are a luxury no matter what line of work you’re in, but they’re also mandated and required in certain work environments. For example, some employers require employees to wear safety shoes in PPE-designated areas, and even OSHA has strict guidelines that employers and workers must follow.
At the end of the day, steel-toe shoes should be worn in any environment that exposes a worker to heavy items, falling objects, large and movable machinery, sharp materials or tools, and/or slippery floors. Most employers will post a warning sign in areas that have been designated as PPE areas, so keep an eye out!
Steel-toe boots are one of the most popular types of safety toe shoes in the world – there’s a reason so many people swear by them. With that said, the industry for protective footwear continues to grow more robust as we identify new materials, manufacturing methods, and new features to enhance performance.
Let’s take a look at some of the other types of work and safety shoes available today:
While steel-toe shoes are the gold standard, that doesn’t mean they’re suitable for everyone. You’ll have to consider the type of environment you work in and the types of hazards you’ll be exposed to on a regular basis – once you identify that, you’ll have a better understanding of what type of shoe you need.
There’s nothing more important than ensuring your employees and guests are safe and out of harm’s way. Not only should employers determine which areas of their business are designated as PPE areas, but they should make sure those areas are well-documented with the proper signage and warnings.
Businesses should also make sure they’re complying with ADA requirements with the signage throughout their facility. Don’t worry, our team at ADA Central can help you figure out what types of signs you need, where you need them, what they need to say, and how to design them. Contact us today to learn more!
]]>The ability to effectively communicate is vital for any business or organization. Efficiency and safety matter in the workplace, and the 5s methodology is there to help various companies improve communication, efficiency, and safety for everyone on the job.
The 5s approach stands for sort, set in order, shine, standardize, and sustain, and it's a methodology for organization in the workplace.
Part of the 5s organization approach is the 5s color standards. This is a tool to help businesses visually portray vital information to employees, customers, and others.
By implementing the 5s color code, organizations and businesses hope to improve productivity, quality, and safety.
At ADA Central, we provide 5s color code-compliant signs for many businesses and organizations, and we are also here to help inform people about regulations and best practices for signage.
This guide covers the 5s color code. Here you'll learn what the color code is and the benefits of implementing it for your workplace.
The 5s color code is used in many different industries and fields, but it's especially important in places where the safety risks are higher. Industrial warehouses, factories, and even parking areas need to use and implement the 5s color code to keep everyone around as safe as possible.
Other places where the 5s color code is particularly vital include medical offices, traffic lanes, and office buildings.
The purpose of the 5s color code is to create a standard for various workplaces to follow. Otherwise, various industries and even each business could determine what various colors mean. Without a uniform code indicating what various colors mean in the workplace, visual communication would be much more difficult and confusing.
By creating a standardized meaning for various colors, communication is much more efficient and safety standards are easier to implement. This is why color coding is so important.
Now that we've covered the basics of what the 5s color code is and how it works, it's essential to detail the color-coding system.
Let's break down the various colors and what they mean, including how they are used in various workplaces.
5s color coding can be used in signage, floor tape, and to mark products. Some industries and workplaces may use more of some colors than others.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration is an organization in the United States Department of Labor that enforces and regulates workplace safety. OSHA standards for different industries vary, but the purpose of this organization is to keep people safer and reduce workplace accidents.
In some workplaces, OSHA inspections are common. And, if you don't have a safe workplace that meets the standards, you could face various fines and even go to jail.
Part of following OSHA standards is using the 5s color code and properly communicating safety risks to employees.
While avoiding fines and jail time is a great incentive to follow 5s color codes in the workplace, these aren't the only important reasons to properly implement this system. It's critical for all employers and business owners to ensure continuous improvement and safety for their workers.
Plus, the 5s color coding standards also offer many other benefits to employers. Let's review some of the benefits of improved visual communication through color coding.
Instead of constantly going over what different colors mean, a standardized system gets the message across more quickly. These standards make it easier to mark out things like vehicle pathways and lanes.
Because the coding system relies on color psychology that most people already know, employers can do their work much more efficiently. With better efficiency in communicating ideas, the 5s color code is also a great productivity initiative.
Safety in the workplace is crucial. It's particularly crucial on worksites that pose higher risks to employees. The 5s color code reduces workplace accidents by indicating potential risks and their safety level.
By using things like floor tape and floor markings, you can keep everyone on the work site safer.
Workplace accidents are something that everyone wants to avoid. No one wants their employees to get injured. On a human level, this is a devastating thing. It can also be a costly, lengthy process of paying for worker's compensation.
While your employees might not connect correct floor markings and signage to morale, people do feel better at work when they feel safe. When employees are able to do their jobs easily and follow safety rules, they feel much more secure, which can improve morale.
Ensuring your signs and floor markings are color-coded correctly is crucial. If you need assistance with the correct signage, ADA Central is here to help. We provide a wide range of safety and custom signs, including ADA-compliant signs.
Check out our inventory or reach out today to learn more.
]]>Chemical burns. The term sounds terrifying, but what do you actually do if you have a chemical burn and what causes them? While most people have heard the term chemical burns before, you may have questions about the underlying causes of these burns and what to do if you have a chemical burn.
In this guide, you'll learn more about chemical burns, including what to do if you need treatment. This guide also reviews information on workplace burns and how employers can protect their employees from minor and severe chemical burns.
Let's get started with the basics of chemical burns.
While most people think of a burn from a fire or something else really hot, a chemical burn is slightly different. These occur when the skin or other tissue becomes damaged from an acidic, corrosive, or otherwise unsafe substance or chemical.
There are many kinds of chemical burns. They can impact the skin, eyes, or even internal elements of the body. Many chemical burn situations occur because someone spills a chemical on themselves without meaning. While most chemical burns occur accidentally, they can also happen purposefully during an assault or self-harm.
However, exposure to chemical burns can also occur by accidentally swallowing chemicals or other environmental factors.
While some minor chemical burns can heal with few side effects, severe chemical burns are serious and can cause lifelong issues. All chemical burns need to be treated by a medical professional.
While chemical burns can happen nearly anywhere internally or externally, some areas of the body are more likely to recievea chemcial burn. Because chemical burns often occur from a spill or drop, they usually impact the face, eyes, legs, arms, feet, or hands.
While chemical burns can happen to anyone, people who work with chemicals in any capacity are the most at risk for chemical burns. Some professions leave people more at risk of receiving a chemical burn than others.
These jobs often have higher safety standards, such as requirements for eye protection and eye washing stations. Employers have a responsibility to adequately protect and train their employees through correct signage and safety protocols.
Some of the people who are most at-risk of receiving chemical burns include:
Along with those who work in higher risk careers, toddlers and children are also more likely than adults to receive chemical burns. These burns usually occur from household products, such as cleaners and detergents.
While a chemical burn can be caused by many different substances, certain products commonly cause acid or chemical burns.
Here are common workplace chemical burn risks to be aware of:
If caustic or acidic chemicals touch your skin or other body parts, they can quickly damage the cells. While some chemical burns are only skin deep, others can seep further into your body. Ingesting or inhaling certain chemicals can also damage or destroy the internal organs.
It's essential to be aware of common household products that can cause acid and chemical burns. Here are some of the most common:
Whether at work or home, it's vital to read the instructions and warning labels on all household cleaners, detergents, and products. This applies doubly to any cleaners and products you use in a workplace setting. You should also listen carefully to trainings about handling chemicals and potential poisons.
Whether minor or severe burns, all chemical burns require assistance from medical professionals. If you or someone around you has a chemical burn, call 911 to request immediate medical treatment.
After calling emergency services, you can follow these steps until medical personnel show up.
If your child receives chemical borns, call 911 immediately and follow the above steps for them. You should also identify the chemical that burned them and set it aside. The medical providers will use various methods to treat the burn, depending on whether it's a minor chemical burn or more severe.
It's also essential to prevent chemical burns by keeping any dangerous cleaners or chemicals secure and out of reach of children.
If you're an employer or manager, protecting your employees, especially those in high-risk jobs, from chemical burns is vital. It's important to follow the OSHA, federal, and state requirements for safety on the job.
One way to ensure you follow these laws is to include the right signs indicating eye washing stations and safety instructions on what to do after a burn.
At ADA Central, we offer an extensive array of signs for business and organizations. Whether you need safety-related signs or ADA-compliant signage, check out our inventory. We also provide custom sign options. Message us today to discover more!
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