Running a print and sign shop is a fast-paced operation. From large-format printers and laminators to cutting tables and finishing equipment, there are plenty of moving parts—literally and figuratively.
Amid tight deadlines and complex jobs, it’s easy to overlook workplace safety. Yet, health and safety are not just compliance requirements—they are essential to protecting your team, maintaining efficiency, and ensuring long-term business sustainability.
In print and sign production, risks come in many forms: chemical exposure, heavy lifting, noise levels, repetitive strain, and equipment hazards. A thoughtful safety program should go beyond the basics of fire extinguishers and first aid kits. It should integrate proactive practices, staff training, and regular reviews.
Let’s explore some of the critical areas every production manager should focus on, along with a practical 5-point health and safety checklist you can put into practice.
Key Areas of Focus in Print & Sign Shop Safety
1. Equipment Safety
Printers, laminators, and cutting machines pose obvious risks—sharp blades, pinch points, and hot surfaces. Guards, emergency stops, and proper lockout/tagout procedures should always be in place and tested. Staff must be trained not only on how to operate machinery but also on what not to do.
2. Chemical Handling
Inks, solvents, adhesives, and cleaning agents often contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can be hazardous if mishandled. Proper labeling, storage in ventilated areas, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, masks, and safety glasses are critical. Staff should also be trained on Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and spill response procedures.
3. Ergonomics
Unlike the heavy machinery risks, ergonomic hazards often go unnoticed because they build over time. Repetitive cutting, bending, and lifting can lead to long-term musculoskeletal issues. Adjustable workstations, anti-fatigue mats, proper lifting techniques, and job rotation are simple but effective solutions. Ensuring operators have enough space to maneuver without twisting or straining is equally important.
4. Noise and Hearing Safety
Sign shops are not always thought of as noisy environments, but certain equipment—especially cutters, air compressors, and some finishing tools—can push sound levels beyond safe thresholds. Prolonged exposure above 85 decibels can contribute to hearing loss. Production managers should monitor decibel levels and provide hearing protection if needed. Noise mapping of the shop floor is a good best practice.
5. Cleanliness and Organization
Slips, trips, and falls remain the most common workplace accidents. Cords, offcuts, and spilled liquids all present risks. A culture of daily cleanup and designated walkways can dramatically reduce accidents. Beyond physical safety, a clean, organized space also improves productivity and morale.
The Human Side of Safety
It’s easy to reduce safety to regulations and compliance checklists, but there’s a human side that matters just as much.
Employees are more engaged and committed when they feel their well-being is prioritized. Open communication channels—where staff can report hazards without fear of blame—create a culture of shared responsibility.
Regular “toolbox talks” on safety topics, stretch breaks to combat fatigue, and recognition for safe practices all reinforce the message that safety is a team effort.
5-Point Safety Checklist
Here’s a practical review list you can use to stay on top of safety requirements:
1. Equipment & Machinery
- Are guards, emergency stops, and safety features functioning and tested?
- Are lockout/tagout procedures clearly posted and followed?
- Has operator training been documented and refreshed in the last 12 months?
2. Chemicals & Materials
- Are all inks, solvents, and adhesives labeled and stored properly?
- Are SDS sheets available and accessible to all staff?
- Is PPE (gloves, goggles, masks) in good supply and being used consistently?
3. Ergonomics & Manual Handling
- Are workstations set up to minimize repetitive strain?
- Are staff trained in safe lifting techniques and provided with aids (e.g., carts, lifts)?
- Are mats, chairs, and benches adjusted to operator comfort?
4. Noise & Air Quality
- Have decibel levels been measured and documented?
- Are hearing protection devices available where noise exceeds 85 dB?
- Is shop ventilation sufficient for removing fumes and maintaining air quality?
5. Housekeeping & General Safety
- Are walkways clear of clutter, cords, and debris?
- Are spill kits and fire extinguishers accessible and regularly inspected?
- Is there a routine for daily cleanup and weekly deep inspection?
Health and safety in a print and sign shop isn’t a one-time project—it’s an ongoing discipline. By focusing on equipment, chemicals, ergonomics, noise, and housekeeping, production managers can reduce risks significantly. But just as important is cultivating a culture where employees feel ownership of safety, not burdened by it.
When safety becomes part of the daily rhythm—just like quality checks or machine maintenance—the shop runs smoother, employees feel more secure, and customers can trust they’re working with a professional, reliable operation.