Emergency Information Panels or EIP signs in Melbourne are more than just signs.
Your staff are most likely aware of all the safety protocols regarding handling, storing and transporting dangerous goods and substances.
However, your employees aren’t the only ones at risk of coming into contact with hazardous goods and chemicals.
You also need to think of:
- Transport and logistics personnel
- Emergency response and safety teams
- Third-party individuals
With so many people susceptible to untoward incidents like collisions, road accidents, and mechanical transport issues, it is crucial to ensure that safety signage is clear, correct, compliant, and consistent.
And just like other safety signs, professional EIP signs are a must when it comes to the safe storing, handling, and transporting of dangerous goods and substances to ensure safety for everyone involved.
What is an EIP panel?
Emergency Information Panels help to ensure a healthy, safe and secure working environment for everyone to work in.
There are two main types of EIPs based on the purpose of usage that can vary from:
- Transporting dangerous goods
- Storing of hazardous substances
Transport EIPs differ from storage EIPs, as the former also includes additional information for drivers and other personnel involved in transport.
One such critical piece of information is emergency contact numbers. This is so the logistics carrier or truck driver is instantly instructed on who to contact in case of emergency.
There’s also a manufacturer’s number indicated for substance-specific advice if it’s needed.
EIPs aren’t just ordinary signages as they need to indicate important information such as:
- The substance name
- UN numbers
- Dangerous goods placard
- Hazchem references
- Emergency contact information
Why are EIPs important in safety?
EIP signs in Australia play an important role in the safety of transporting, delivering, storing, and usage of dangerous goods and hazardous substances.
This is why the safety and success of any business depends on how well these safety signs are properly communicated.
Emergency Information Panels (EIPs) are part of the basic standard of Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) and the Australian Dangerous Goods Code. Every business should make sure that workers are safe and protected from any harm.
What are the format requirements of Emergency Information Panels?
If spillage happens, Emergency Information Panels inform those at the scene of the proper response in which to safely handle the dangerous goods.
EIPs should comply with the Australian Dangerous Goods Code that includes safety in storing, transporting, and delivering chemicals like petrol or other hazardous substances.
EIPs should be visible on the front, back, and side of any transport vehicle. They must follow formatting guidelines, including:
- Technical name of the hazardous goods should not be less than 50mm
- The class label should not be less than 250mm
- The UN class number should not be less than 100mm
- Numerals and letters of the name and contact numbers should not be less than 50 mm high
EIPs should be clean from any marks, and free from any obstruction to ensure they are visible at all times.
When should a vehicle display Emergency Information Panels?
When hazardous chemicals are present on cargo transportation, EIPs should be legibly displayed.
Dangerous goods in cargo transport units have flammable, toxic, explosive, or corrosive properties that can put health and safety at risk.
From packaging, loading, transporting, and unloading of these dangerous goods, utmost care should be carefully observed through the process. EIPs serve as information placards that classify the dangers of substances and how they should be handled.
What are the three classifications of hazards?
To ensure safety and reduce the risks of illnesses and injuries, most hazards should be assessed and identified correctly.
Such classifications of hazards usually fit into one of the following three categories:
- Physical hazards
- Chemical hazards
- Biological hazards
Physical hazards include hard and sharp objects that might cause cuts, wounds, or other injuries, choking hazards, and can also include things like loud noise or extreme temperature.
Chemical hazards pose a threat with improper use. Certain solutions and substances can cause irritation, poisoning, and breathing problems, especially when not handled and stored properly.
Biological hazards pertain to different microorganisms that produce toxins and can cause diseases such as E.coli and salmonella.
How many UN classification class labels of HAZMAT are there?
EIPs are usually divided into classes and inform the driver and every personnel along the supply chain of the associated substance and as such, help them understand any potential dangers.
HAZMAT labels or classes include:
- Class 1: Explosives
- Class 2: Gases
- Class 3: Flammable liquids
- Class 4: Flammable solids
- Class 5: Oxidising substances and organic peroxides
- Class 6: Toxic and infectious substances
- Class 7: Radioactive material
- Class 8: Corrosive substances
- Class 9: Miscellaneous dangerous substances and articles
How Signsmart can help you with your EIPs
Properly storing and transporting goods with Emergency Information Panels is an important component for many kinds of businesses, particularly those in the chemical, petrochemical, transport, and manufacturing industries.
We create custom signs
If you can’t find what you are looking for in our online catalogue, don’t worry: the Signsmart team can create custom made signs tailored for your particular business needs.
We help you comply with Australian standards
Not sure of the signage you need for your business? Our experts will help you understand the different hazchem labels in Australia, and which ones you will need to remain compliant.
Signsmart provides you with the right icons, materials, sizes and colours that comply with Australian standards.
Get fast delivery across Australia
Need something fast? Based right here in Melbourne, we can offer you an express service when you’re on a tight deadline.
Just tell us what you need and we’ll work fast to get you your custom safety signs and EIPs, usually within 2 days*!
*Conditions apply
Start shopping online now, and if you’ve got something custom in mind, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us!
Call Signsmart on (03) 9687 3050, or fill in this form – we’re ready to help!
