Beyond the Counter: Expanding the Use of Safety Shields in Public Spaces

While sneeze guards are commonly seen at checkout counters, the benefits of safety shields extend far beyond traditional retail settings. This blog post explores how these versatile barriers can be implemented in various public spaces to minimize the spread of germs and create healthier environments for everyone.

Rethinking Public Spaces:

From public transportation to schools and community centers, public spaces are areas where people congregate and interact, increasing the potential for germ transmission. Implementing safety shields in these spaces can provide an extra layer of protection and promote a greater sense of public health awareness.

Expanding the Scope of Protection:

• Public Transportation: Partitions or dividers in buses, trains, and other forms of public transportation can help minimize the spread of germs between passengers, particularly during peak travel times.
• Schools and Daycares: In classrooms, cafeterias, and common areas, safety shields can create separation barriers between students and staff, reducing the risk of transmission in these high-contact environments.
• Healthcare Settings: In waiting rooms and reception areas of clinics and hospitals, safety shields can help protect vulnerable patients from exposure to airborne illnesses.
• Community Centers and Libraries: These public spaces often host events and gatherings where people are in close proximity. Implementing safety shields can help mitigate the risk of germ transmission during these activities.

Creating a Culture of Prevention:

The presence of safety shields in public spaces serves as a visual reminder of the importance of hygiene and social distancing. This can encourage individuals to be more mindful of their actions and take responsibility for preventing the spread of germs.

A Shared Responsibility:

While safety shields are a valuable tool, they are most effective when used in conjunction with other preventative measures such as hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette, and staying home when sick. By working together and implementing a multi-layered approach, we can create healthier and safer public spaces for everyone.

Read more on our website!

We bring together the experiences and successes of Imperial Industries and Ann Arbor Plastics to manufacture superior custom products - especially in the face of the most difficult design challenges. From plastic safety shields, plating tanks and retail displays to OEM plastic components and food processing equipment, our portfolio of custom-engineered and fabricated sheet plastic solutions continues to grow. And don’t worry. If you don’t see what you need here, it just means we haven’t been asked to take a crack at it yet. No matter how big or complicated your project, we’re ready for your challenge. Engineered and made in America since 1945. Contact us today!

Protecting Public-Facing Workers During Cold Season: The Role of Sneeze Guards

The cold and flu season brings with it a heightened awareness of germ transmission, particularly in public spaces where interactions are frequent. For workers in customer-facing roles, the risk of exposure is even greater. Sneeze guards – a simple yet effective safety measure – can provide crucial protection for these essential workers.

The Front Line of Germ Exposure:

Cashiers, receptionists, bank tellers, and other public-facing employees are constantly interacting with numerous individuals throughout the day. This puts them on the front line of potential germ exposure from coughs, sneezes, and even regular conversation. While handwashing and other hygiene practices are important, they don't offer complete protection against airborne droplets.

Enter the Sneeze Guard:

Sneeze guards, also known as cough shields or cashier shields, provide a physical barrier between employees and the public. Typically made of clear acrylic or polycarbonate, these shields are strategically placed at counters and transaction points to intercept droplets expelled during coughing, sneezing, or talking.

Benefits Beyond Physical Protection:

• Reduced Sick Days: By minimizing the transmission of germs, sneeze guards can help reduce employee sick days, leading to improved productivity and reduced staffing shortages.
• Increased Employee Confidence: Knowing that they have an added layer of protection can boost employee morale and confidence, leading to better customer service.
• Customer Reassurance: The presence of sneeze guards also reassures customers that businesses are taking their health and safety seriously, fostering trust and loyalty.

Read more on our website!

We bring together the experiences and successes of Imperial Industries and Ann Arbor Plastics to manufacture superior custom products - especially in the face of the most difficult design challenges. From plastic safety shields, plating tanks and retail displays to OEM plastic components and food processing equipment, our portfolio of custom-engineered and fabricated sheet plastic solutions continues to grow. And don’t worry. If you don’t see what you need here, it just means we haven’t been asked to take a crack at it yet. No matter how big or complicated your project, we’re ready for your challenge. Engineered and made in America since 1945. Contact us today!