Wind energy is quickly becoming a cornerstone of the UK energy market. The latest government statistics list wind energy as the country’s second-largest electricity source. In fact, wind energy accounts for 1/5th of the UK’s energy production.
However, as wind leads the renewable market, both public and energy sector workers need to be aware of wind turbine safety.
Below, we’ll explain the wind turbine safety rules, common safety issues and the role of wind turbine signs and labels. We’ll also look at how safety regulations may evolve.
Wind Turbine Safety, Explained
Wind turbine safety broadly sits in two categories: building safety and safety for bystanders. There are different safety considerations for building and maintaining wind turbines, while the public should be aware of the dangers when approaching one.
Safety When Building a Wind Turbine
When building a wind turbine, workers are exposed to several risk factors:
- Working at height
- Working in a confined space
- Inhalation of toxic gases and vapours
- Noise exposure
- Working with tools and machinery
These wind turbine safety issues are further complicated by weather conditions: high winds or sudden rain can greatly increase the risk of slips, trips and falls.
All wind turbine workers are trained, so keeping them safe relies on effective communication. There needs to be clear communication between management and on-site workers, and any information on poor weather should be relayed well in advance.
Another way to communicate with workers is through signs and labels. There are a range of wind turbine labels to relay key information like turbine isolation points and cabling, as well as AC/DC isolators and the presence of blades.
Overall, equipment must be properly labelled. This ensures wind turbine workers are fully aware of any potential risks at all times, and can take the necessary precautions.
Important Wind Turbine Safety Rules For Bystanders
So, how can a company keep wind turbines safe for passers-by? Wind turbines are generally safe and are usually found in remote areas. However, people can come into contact with them: agriculture workers encounter them, and some have been prone to vandalism, which brings a degree of danger.
To keep bystanders safe, wind turbines should be properly labelled and signposted. This ensures all the necessary information is communicated and leaves all liability with the bystander. In addition to this, wind turbines should be reviewed and maintained 2-3 times a year, as per safety guidelines.
Accidents with wind turbines and the public are incredibly rare, but these safety measures help make them even less likely.
Discover Wind Turbine Signs Today
Discover our range of wind turbine signs today to keep safe. We have a range of high-quality labels and sizes available, so you can rest easy knowing your workers and the public are using the best in wind energy safety.
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