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INDUSTRY
Signage for the return to work
T
he need for signage has exploded over
SO WHICH ORGANISATIONS UTILISE LAMINATION MOST?
the last few months; supermarkets, hospitals, warehouses, and any other
OFFICES
open places of business, have been
Any office-based business will use lamination for signage and
implementing health and safety messages
displays, as well as to keep important documents protected.
and social distancing rules everywhere to
As we return to work over the coming months there will be
ensure they aren’t missed. These include reminders to regularly
an upswing in the need for signage due to social distancing
wash and sanitise hands, wear masks and gloves and markers to
measures and the necessity to communicate them effectively
space out two metre distances.
throughout corridors, meeting rooms, toilets and breakout
In a recent poll of 1,000 people, 44% of working adults
areas. Areas previously accessible by everybody will also be
said they felt anxious about returning to work because of
restricted via signage; for example, employees will require a
the health risks posed by COVID-19; clear office signage to
designated desk area or workspace rather than hot-desking
communicate health and safety measures is one major step
using shared desks.
towards minimising that anxiety, ensuring that the transition from lockdown to a new way of working is made as seamless as
SCHOOLS
possible. Because of this, there has also been a rise in the need
As schools gradually reopen information on hygiene and social
for laminators, as laminated signage not only protects the sign
distancing will be required throughout all areas including
itself in a tear-proof, waterproof coating, but it’s wipe-clean and
classrooms, corridors, offices and outdoors areas. Laminating
easy to disinfect, long-lasting and can be used both indoors
these signs will make them robust enough for regular handling
and out. This rise in the popularity of lamination will only
by staff and pupils alike, and will mean they are all wipe-clean
continue as organisations slowly re-open.
and able to safely adhere to health and safety rules.
Laminating is the quickest, and most effective, way to ensure that any printed documentation is made hygienic,
HOSPITALS, GP SURGERIES AND CARE HOMES
ensuring compliance with any new COVID-19 rules a business
More than most environments, healthcare organisations
has in place; it’s also cost-effective, as sticker printing and
need clear, consistent signage outlining warnings and
permanent sign production can prove expensive in comparison.
advice throughout. On top of this, they have to be able to be disinfected on a very regular basis – and this is where lamination trumps everything else.
How to implement a phased return to work responsibly
display of health and wellness information throughout a
• Consult with staff on a risk assessment to
workplace helps support a healthy culture and mindset –
But signage needn’t be entirely used for warnings. The
create new rules for ensuring the workplace is
something workers sorely need in the current climate. Posters
as safe as possible.
encouraging healthy eating, rest, exercise and emotional
• Maintain social distancing everywhere by staggering start times, creating one-way
wellbeing will show those returning to work that they are cared for by their employers, and ensure they feel safe.
walkways and configuring the office so that seats are two metres apart. Signage plays a very important part here.
FIND OUT MORE
• Communicate with colleagues regarding the
GBC’s laminating ranges include the GBC Foton 30
new rules, including guidelines for home
– the world’s first fully automated laminator.
working.
Visit www.gbceurope.com
• Communicate with third parties, as any visitors to the workplace will need to be made aware of the rules and maintain their distance.
For Nobo signage and display products ranges, visit www.noboeurope.com
