5 Reasons to Use Disabled Signage at Your Premises
| James Marshall
According to the most recent labour force survey (1), more than 11 million people in the UK are living with a long-term illness or disability. Of working age people, 20% (nearly 6 million) are in this category.
Displaying disabled signage is crucial for ensuring that individuals with disabilities can easily navigate 'public spaces'. By clearly marking accessible entrances, parking spots, and facilities, businesses and organisations show their dedication to providing equal access to all.
Here are 5 reasons why you should ensure safety signage is used as much as possible.
1. It's the law!
In the United Kingdom, the Equality Act 2010 sets out legal obligations for businesses and organisations to make reasonable adjustments to ensure that individuals with disabilities are not at a disadvantage. This includes providing clear and visible disabled signage to indicate accessible facilities and accommodations.
There are also other legal considerations which, while are not as clear cut, are nevertheless relevant particularly to employers, and especially those whose employees belong to a trade union.
The Health and Safety at Work Act (HSWA) 1974, lays out the responsibilities employer's have to keep their employees and any members of the public who use their premises safe and in good health and this includes the welfare of disabled people.
In addition to HSWA are two more refined sets of regulations: Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations (MHSWR) 1999, and The Safety Representatives and Safety Committees Regulations (SRSC) 1977. The MHSWR outlines the obligation to conduct risk assessments (something which may change according to the disabilities of those using the premises - and it's therefore a good idea to cater for all from the outset). The SRSC states that employers must consult with trade unions regarding health & safety, and those unions may have particular rules regarding disability signage.
The above being said, while there is no specific stipulation by the HSE that an employer must carry out a separate risk assessment for disabled people, it's nevertheless advisable. And having a full complement of signage to cover all bases helps to ensure inclusivity for all.
2. Create an Inclusive, Welcoming Atmosphere (that doesn't feel fake!)
The installation of disability signage sends a strong visual signal of corporate inclusivity. When people with disabilities work in, or visit your premises and see signs that cater to their specific needs, it inevitably helps people feel at home.
3. Make Navigation Easier
Disability signage is vital in assisting individuals with disabilities to effectively navigate your premises. Clear and conspicuous signs indicating accessible entrances, ramps, lifts, and accessible facilities help staff and visitors find their way independently. If a disabled person can do what they need to do, and get to where they need to be without asking an able bodied person, the design and layout of your building has been successful.
4. Guaranteeing Safety and Preparedness for Emergencies
In emergencies, rapid and efficient evacuation is crucial for everyone’s safety, including people with disabilities. By displaying emergency evacuation and disabled refuge point signage, you ensure that all visitors can quickly locate safe areas.
This is particularly important concerning emergency lift exits; if a customer, staff member, or visitor has a disability and the general protocol is not to use lifts in case of fire, it is crucial to have clear signage explaining the emergency evacuation procedure.
5. Establishing a Positive Reputation and Customer Loyalty
Inclusivity is becoming a key factor for consumers. By displaying disability signage, you demonstrate your commitment to accessibility and so your appeal to a broader customer base, ergo when people with disabilities and their families feel welcomed and accommodated, they are more likely to become loyal customers and advocates for your business.
Bibliography
1. Office for National Statistics. (2024). Labour Force Survey. [data series]. 11th Release. UK Data Service. SN: 2000026, DOI: http://doi.org/10.5255/UKDA-Series-2000026