Most businesses don't think about door safety measures. The doors open, close, lock, unlock, and do their jobs every single day. However, unprotected doors can be safety hazards and cause serious liabilities. In the United Kingdom, you have a legal duty of care to prevent foreseeable injuries, including fingers trapped in shutting doors.
The Legal Landscape
The authorities mandate taking reasonable steps like installing door hinge guards to protect children, vulnerable adults, and others from preventable injuries. So, you must comply with the necessary health and safety regulations. Failing to do so is a breach of duty. Severe legal repercussions may follow once an injury occurs due to high-impact closing doors or unprotected hinges.
What Happens After A Door Accident?
Parents or guardians can file a claim if a child is injured due to unprotected doors. Solicitors are involved. Inspections are scheduled. Insurance companies take note of every minute detail on your premises. Ultimately, the compensation, when rewarded, can reach thousands of pounds.
So you'll be dealing with an accident, its legalities, reputational damage, and reducing staff morale and productivity. Plus, there is never-ending regulatory pressure.
Finger Guards Can Manage the Risk
Finger guards for doors in schools, nurseries, or daycare facilities are an effective and low-cost safety device. These demonstrate your due diligence, commitment to safeguarding your premises, and compliance. They're easy to fit, high-quality, and long-lasting. They ensure no entrapment injuries occur, even in high-traffic areas. Moreover, if you don't have these proactive measures to show to the inspection authorities, the legal weight falls solely on your shoulders.
Don't Wait For the Worse to Happen
If you haven't thought about door finger protection, now is the time to do so. Take a quick walkthrough of your premises and look at the areas that require safeguarding. Differentiate high-use areas from those with limited use. Employ the correct safety measures in every space, and do not wait for something worse to happen. The time to protect your liability and people is right now and right here.
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