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5 Most Overlooked Workplace Hazards (and How to Fix Them)

At Ranmoor Health and Safety, we believe the smallest details often make the

biggest difference. That’s why we’ve created this quick-reference guide to highlight

the five hazards we see most often overlooked.



1. Unlabelled or Unmaintained Fire Extinguishers

The Risk: In an emergency, a missing or faulty fire extinguisher

could have serious consequences.

What to Look For:

  • Missing inspection tags

  • Blocked or hidden extinguishers

  • Incorrect types for the fire risks on site

How to Fix It:

  • Schedule regular checks

  • Train your team on extinguisher types and locations

  • Replace damaged or outdated units


2. Inadequate Machine Guarding

The Risk: Exposed moving parts cause thousands of workplace

injuries each year.

What to Look For:

  • Missing or broken guards

  • Staff disabling or bypassing safety features

How to Fix It:

  • Conduct a machinery safety audit

  • Reinforce lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures

  • Engage staff in safety improvement


  1. Overloaded Electrical Sockets

The Risk: Overheating and potential fire hazards.

What to Look For:

  • Daisy-chained extension leads

  • Overloaded multi-plug adaptors

How to Fix It:

  • Get a professional electrical safety check

  • Replace high-risk setups with safer infrastructure

  • Promote safe habits through awareness


4. Poor Storage of Flammable Materials

The Risk: Increased fire hazard and risk of toxic exposure.

What to Look For:

  • Flammables stored in unventilated areas

  • No signage or separation from ignition sources

How to Fix It:

  • Use flame-resistant storage units

  • Train staff in COSHH best practices

  • Review storage procedures regularly


5. Lack of Clear Emergency Procedures

The Risk: Confusion and delay in the event of an incident.

What to Look For:

  • No signage or out-of-date evacuation plans

  • Staff unsure of their roles in an emergency

How to Fix It:

  • Conduct regular drills

  • Keep evacuation maps and contact details up to date

  • Assign and train fire marshals or safety coordinators

 
 
 

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