Safety in production facilities is a top priority for any company – especially in the food industry, where the risk of accidents is high and sanitary requirements are particularly strict. According to the Polish Central Statistical Office (GUS), in the first quarter of 2024, 15,433 workplace accidents were reported, an increase of 7.9% compared to the same period in 2023. There were 74 fatal and 75 severe accidents. As in previous years, manufacturing and transport-warehouse sectors remain among those most exposed to such incidents.
These figures are a serious warning signal for facility managers — the lack of effective protective measures means not only a risk to workers’ health and safety, but also the potential for costly downtime and repairs. Proper safety systems, such as flexible barriers and warning systems, can prevent incidents — and even save lives.
Case study – addressing the needs of a client in the food industry
In the food sector, safety takes on an additional dimension. All protection systems — such as safety barriers — must be adapted to industry-specific conditions, ensuring not only worker protection but also compliance with stringent hygiene standards. One of our recent projects illustrates how to address these challenges effectively.
A leading food manufacturer required comprehensive protection for both employees and infrastructure — all within the context of strict sanitary requirements. The main challenge? The movement of forklifts and machinery in close proximity to employee work zones. In high-ceilinged production halls, traditional steel barriers proved insufficient. The company needed a more advanced solution that could not only physically protect workers but also provide early warning of approaching danger.
Implementing an integrated protection and warning system
Following a detailed on-site audit, we designed and implemented a comprehensive system of flexible safety barriers integrated with an active warning system. Considering the specific requirements of the facility, we selected the Gate Protector – a modern, high polymer-based protective barrier equipped with advanced sound and light warning signals.
We also installed SGR safety gates with STOP sign, serving a dual purpose — as physical barriers and as visual warning points. The clearly visible STOP sign reminds employees to stay alert before entering potentially hazardous zones. Moreover, the integrated warning system activates automatically: the gates lock when a forklift is detected nearby and unlock once the area becomes safe again.
Along pedestrian walkways, we installed Pedestrian barriers with added protection against low-positioned forklift forks. In high-risk wall zones, low GB HD+ barriers were used to prevent collisions, while impact protection plates were mounted in narrow spaces prone to abrasion. All installed products not only absorb impact energy to prevent damage but also meet the highest hygiene standards (see project photos).
“This project is a great example of how Anter System’s wide product range can combine infrastructure protection with care for employee safety and comfort. Our priority is modularity — allowing every system to be adapted to unique conditions and requirements. Our flexible barriers not only absorb impact effectively but are also made from materials compliant with HACCP and FDA standards, resistant to extreme temperatures (-35°C to +60°C) and chemicals, making them ideal for the food industry.”
– Tomasz Baryła, Anter System
Why it matters – tangible benefits of investment
After implementing Anter System’s flexible safety barriers, the risk of collisions dropped significantly, while employee confidence and operational efficiency increased. Fewer equipment and wall damages translated directly into measurable savings for the client.
Investing in the right safety systems is not just about compliance — it’s a real step toward improving operational efficiency. The use of flexible barriers and warning systems minimizes accident risk and significantly extends the lifespan of infrastructure. Fewer incidents mean less downtime, lower repair costs, and, most importantly, a safer and calmer working environment.
In an environment governed by strict safety and hygiene standards, polymer-based flexible barriers integrated with warning systems and safety gates have become an essential part of any effective safety strategy. If protecting your team and infrastructure is your priority, these solutions can become a key component of your company’s safety plan.
Source:
behapowcy.com/wypadki-przy-pracy-w-i-kwartale-2024-r-dane-wstepne
stat.gov.pl/obszary-tematyczne/rynek-pracy/warunki-pracy-wypadki-przy-pracy/wypadki-przy-pracy-w-1-kwartale-2024-roku,3,55.html
