Should Every Factory Have a Lighthouse?

Creating a safe, efficient, and visually organised factory isn't easy! Especially if every area is at a different stage on the journey.

A common challenge we see is that operators want to improve, but there’s no clear guidance on what "good" actually looks like.

That’s where the idea of a Lighthouse comes in.

What Is a Lighthouse?

A Lighthouse is a dedicated area in your factory that visibly sets the gold standard for safety and organisation.

Think of it as your benchmark: a clear, central example of what you expect across the entire site.

Typically, a Lighthouse Wall is:

• 3–5 metres long

• Highly visible from across the factory

• Colour-coded and clearly signed

• Fitted with all key Health & Safety equipment

It’s not just a display. It’s a practical, centralised safety station where employees can quickly access first aid kits, eyewash stations, AED units, or spill response materials - without running from one end of the building to the other.

And importantly, it serves as a statement: showing that your factory prioritises a lean, safe, and visual culture.

Where Should You Install a Lighthouse?

Location is critical. A Lighthouse should go somewhere prominent, ideally:

• Near a main entrance

• Along a busy walkway

• In clear line of sight from multiple areas

You want every employee and visitor to see it straight away.

It can be painted onto an existing wall, mounted onto a stud wall, or even built around glass or other panels. There's no strict limit — just make sure it's highly visible and accessible.

What Does a Lighthouse Include?

While it’s fully customisable, most Lighthouses include:

• First aid kits

• Eyewash stations

• AED (Automated External Defibrillator)

• Fire response equipment

• Type D fire extinguishers (for flammable metals)

• Incident response kits (like spill kits)

All of these items are laid out, colour-coded, and clearly signed—so employees know exactly what to grab in an emergency.

How Much Does a Lighthouse Cost?

Costs can vary widely, ranging from around £2,000 to £10,000+, depending on factors like:

• Existing wall condition (can you repaint, or do you need a new stud wall?)

• Number of components

• Size (including double-sided designs for central factory areas)

• Height (and whether lifts are needed for installation)

• Whether new equipment is needed or existing items can be reused

We always recommend assessing your site's needs before committing to a design.

How Do You Get One?

You have options:

• DIY approach: Your maintenance team can install it using components and signage you source yourself (including from us).

• Turnkey service: Engage Clarity to handle everything, from measuring and design to artwork and installation.

We’ll visit your site, recommend the best location, design the Lighthouse with your approval, and install it ready for use.

Don’t Forget About PPE Standards Walls

Alongside our Lighthouse concept, Clarity also offers PPE Standards Boards.

These visual tools:

• Display a life-sized PPE checklist

• Include a mirror for self-checks

• Help workers confirm they’re compliant before entering certain areas

It’s another effective way to drive ownership, safety, and awareness throughout your facility.

Ready to Raise Your Standards?

If you want your site to be safer, more organised, and easier to manage, a Lighthouse can be a game-changing investment.

It sets expectations, improves response times, and supports a culture where everyone knows safety matters.

Want to explore options?

Contact our team on +44 (0)1482 296451 or fill in our contact form to book a free consultation.