Workplace safety is vital, no matter where you work. From a busy warehouse or office to schools, shops and hospitals, you need a clear plan to keep people safe.
Assembly point signs are a simple but essential part of this plan, guiding people to safety in emergencies. Read on as we explore more about them and why they are important.
What are assembly points?
An assembly point is a safe place where everyone gathers during an emergency. This happens when your workplace has a serious incident such as a fire, chemical spill, gas leak or any other emergency.
Spots need to be chosen carefully so they are far enough away from danger. It’s also essential that they are clearly signposted, so people know exactly where to go during an evacuation.
It’s important to remember that assembly points are more than a random meeting point. They’re a key part of keeping everyone safe. Choosing a particular location helps to account for everyone quickly and cuts down on confusion.
Why workplaces need assembly points
Every workplace benefits from having clearly defined assembly points. Here’s why:
Ensures safety during evacuations
During an emergency, the priority is getting everyone out of danger. Assembly points provide a safe area for staff and visitors to gather without obstructing any emergency services.
Makes headcounts easier
Once everyone is at the assembly point, designated safety officers or fire wardens can take a headcount. This makes it easier to identify if anyone is missing or needs help.
Supports fire safety regulations
Workplace safety regulations require businesses to have clear emergency procedures in place. This includes evacuation plans and assembly points. You can find detailed info on fire safety regulations in our article on Fire Safety Signs.
Minimises confusion in large sites
In larger workplaces, such as warehouses or multi-story office buildings, people can get lost or disorientated during emergencies. If assembly points have clear signs, they can guide everyone to a common location quickly and safely.
Fire safety regulations and compliance
Assembly points aren’t just a good idea. They’re a legal requirement.
Every business must comply with fire safety legislation. This is done by putting evacuation plans in place and making sure that employees know where to assemble in an emergency. These requirements mean that workplaces need clear and visible assembly point signs, so that even visitors or temporary staff can follow evacuation procedures safely.
Having a clear assembly point also helps emergency services do their job more effectively. For example, if a fire breaks out in an office building, firefighters can quickly get information from the safety officer. This will tell them who has been accounted for and whether anyone might still be inside, saving valuable time.
Fire action procedures
Regular fire drills are an important way to make sure staff and visitors remember where to go in an emergency. Confidence and quick action can make all the difference when a fire occurs and knowing exactly what to do can save lives.
- Raise the alarm – Employees or automated systems alert everyone in the building.
- Evacuate safely – Staff follow designated escape routes to the nearest exits.
- Go to the assembly point – Everyone gathers at the predetermined safe location.
- Carry out a head count – Safety officers ensure all personnel are accounted for.
- Report missing persons – Anyone who is not at the assembly point can be quickly identified and located.
Customisable assembly point signs
Not all workplaces are the same, so neither are their evacuation needs. That’s why customisable assembly point signs are a great option for businesses with teams, departments or large worksites. Having this flexibility is especially useful in places like warehouses or university campuses, where one assembly point might not be suitable for everyone.
Custom signs allow you to:
- Set different assembly points for different teams or zones.
- Include photos, names or instructions to guide particular groups.
- Make sure that your signs align with the layout of your site and emergency plan.
GTSE’s range of assembly point signs include:
Wayfinding sign
This sign is a great option for highlighting your assembly point and is easily used as a temporary sign or a long-term one. You can simply push it into grass or soil or secure it in concrete to make it sturdier.
Photo rigid sign
This sign is clear and durable, made from strong, lightweight PVC. It can be used for both outdoors and indoor assembly points. It’s easy for people to spot and can be drilled and fixed to a wall quickly.
Special assembly point sign
Staff and visitors in your workplace can find the assembly point with a clear Special Assembly Point sign. It can be customised with your preferred number or letter and can be used indoors and outdoors.
Advantages of using assembly point signs
Assembly point signs do more than just help. They offer real benefits during emergencies. For example:
Quickly identify missing persons
If everyone expected is at the assembly point, it’s much easier to notice when someone isn’t there. This then helps emergency responders act faster and make sure everyone is clear of danger.
Reduces panic and confusion
It’s normal for people to panic during an emergency. Having clear signs to guide people to safety helps calm the situation.
Supports staff training and drills
Regular fire drills are more effective when assembly points have clear signs. Employees learn exactly where to go, making real emergencies less stressful.
Improves visitor safety
Temporary staff or visitors might not know their way around. Having clear assembly points provides clear guidance and keeps everyone safe.
Clear signs, safer workplaces
Make your workplace safer and ready for emergencies by organising your assembly points. GTSE offers a full range of assembly point and safety signs for both indoor and outdoor use, so staff and visitors always know where to go.
Check out GTSE’s full range today and get the right signs for your needs.