In the hustle and bustle of the workplace, it's easy to overlook potential hazards that can lead to injuries or, in extreme cases, fatalities. Creating a safer work environment begins with awareness and the proactive identification of risks. To help navigate the maze of potential dangers, here are top life-saving signs that can prevent the most common causes of workplace injuries and deaths.

There were 1369 workplace deaths and 34,280 injuries on the road in 2022. Such incidents accounted for 38% of on-the-job deaths that year. Efforts to reduce transportation related accidents include seat-belt campaigns, driver training, and safety recognition.

Fall protection violations have been the most common OSHA citation for 13 straight years. Falls to lower level resulted in 700 deaths and 64,505 injuries in 2022. Effective fall protection programs include both equipment and training.

Violence in the workplace resulted in 849 deaths and 124,040 injuries in 2022. Workplace violence can be prevented by fostering a culture of security. Security signage encourages employees to report suspicious activity, creating a safer environment for all.

Exposure to harmful substances can have long-term health effects. There were 586 deaths and approximately 300,000 workplace injuries related to exposure to hazardous substances. Signs and labels remind employees to use protective gear, minimizing the risk of an accident. HazCom labels are also important when working with or transporting chemicals and compounds.

Falling tools or equipment pose a significant risk. There were 484 fatalities and 223,925 injuries involving workers being struck by objects in 2022. A clear "Wear Your Hard Hat" sign serves as a visual reminder for employees to protect their heads, preventing serious head injuries. Check out more ways to improve construction site safety.

Pedestrians struck on roadways totaled 325 deaths and 8,485 injuries in the workplace in 2022. Visual communication can warn both drivers and pedestrians to use greater caution in areas where such traffic intersects. Warehouse forklift traffic control can also benefit for effective floor marking.

Contact with electricity caused 145 workplace deaths and 1,980 injuries in 2022. This high rate of deaths to injuries highlights the extreme hazard electrified equipment represents. Arc flash warning signs alert employees to hazards and floor marking signs and tape communicate electrical safety zones.

While falls to lower levels account for more deaths, slips and trips caused 144 deaths and 207,200 injuries in 2022. Slippery, uneven, and cluttered surfaces are the most common causes of slips, trips, and falls. A simple "Wet Floor" sign can alert employees to potential hazards, prompting them to proceed with caution and avoid unnecessary accidents.

Caught-in or between accidents can be devastating. There were 142 deaths and 59,605 injuries involving pinches, catches, and crushes in 2022. Effective machine guarding helps employees to stay clear of machinery in operation, reducing the risk of accidents.

Fires and explosions resulted in 107 deaths and 1,870 injuries in 2022. Fire hazard signs remind employees to follow safety protocols, reducing the risk of fires and explosions. If a fire does occur, knowing the exit routes is crucial. Emergency evacuation signs and floor tape guide employees to safety, preventing chaos and potential injuries during emergencies.

In 2022, 95 workplace fatalities were caused by workers being struck, caught, or crushed in collapsing structures, equipment, or materials. OSHA confined space rules cover the hazards, permits and training involved in working in confined spaces.

Safety You Can See 

The power of prevention lies in clear and effective communication. Implementing these life-saving signs in the workplace can significantly reduce the risk of common injuries and deaths. Regular training, awareness programs, and a commitment to safety from both employers and employees are essential elements in creating a secure work environment. A small sign today can make a big difference tomorrow.