Safety Tips for Installing Large-Scale Commercial Decorations

Large-scale decorations are an eye-catching addition to a commercial setting. They ensure your display is not overlooked, making them ideal for attracting foot traffic.

However, hanging large decor can pose risks. It’s typically heavy and difficult to hang, leading to safety hazards. Commercial decorations safety tips ensure your staff, customers, and business remain liability-free, guaranteeing a pleasant holiday season.

Safety is always a priority when hanging holiday decorations, but there’s more at stake in a commercial setting.

Here are some common hazards to look out for. 

• Electrical: Electrical components always pose a hazard in holiday decorating, but when you work on a large scale, you deal with even more wiring and higher wattages. If an incident occurs, it could lead to considerable damage. Common fire hazards in holiday decor are often related to overloaded outlets, damaged or worn lights and cords, and faulty fixtures.
• Structural: Large items requiring installation put considerable pressure on underlying structures. They can damage the structure of your building. If not adequately supported, the structures can fall on customers and employees or damage your property.
• Environmental: Decorations also pose environmental hazards. Inefficient lighting requires substantial energy, leading to high energy bills and potentially upsetting ecological customers. You may also integrate decor made of toxic materials that damage the atmosphere.

Inspect the installation site before decorating, looking for the following potential hazards:

Local codes vary depending on where you are located, but typically apply to the following:

Large-scale commercial Christmas light installation requires an awareness of load-bearing safety for decor and structural limits. The following commercial decorations safety tips will help prevent injuries.

• Distribute Weight if Possible: Rather than hammer in a decoration with one nail, use various nails spread across the expanse of the decoration to distribute its weight evenly and ensure optimal support.
• Know Your Load-Bearing Capacity: Familiarize yourself with the load-bearing capacity of your roof and walls, and don’t exceed your limits.
• Use Ropes: If possible, use ropes for lifting. This system reduces the item's overwhelming bulk and allows multiple people to take on the load.
• Prioritize Lightweight Materials: Your decorations may be big, but don’t need to be heavy. Use lightweight materials if possible.
• Check Stability: Ensure display items are stable after installation to prevent them from falling or getting blown away.

The tools you use for holiday decorations vary but typically include cutting tools, wire cutters, tape, hanging hooks, clips, zip ties, staplers, ladders, poles, and more. The point is, use the right tools. Follow the manufacturer's directions and use tools as instructed to ensure your decor is installed safely.

Installing Christmas displays typically requires using ladders and lifts to access high areas. Safety is essential. OSHA provides guidelines on the best practices for using this equipment, but here are some general rules to follow:

Electrical safety for decorations is another crucial matter. Companies should:

If you plan to install your decor outdoors, it must be weatherproof. Outdoor decoration weatherproofing reduces the risk of electric shocks and decorations blowing away and causing damage in inclement weather. Here’s what’s involved.

• Ensure Electrical Protection: Avoid electrical hazards by using outdoor-rated lights and wiring and GFCIs, and sealing connections. Consider using weatherproof boxes and avoid leaving sockets open.
• Protect Decorations: Ensure decorations are well-fastened and won’t blow away. Choose decor made from weather-resistant materials or apply sealants to keep them safe.

We previously mentioned the importance of leveling the ground before installing decorations. However, trip hazards in public displays can occur at any time. For example, the wiring could fall on the ground, presenting a tripping hazard.

Electrical hazards that may not have been apparent during installation can rear their ugly heads at any time. Bulbs and wires can become damaged, and wires can loosen. Inspect and test your components regularly to avoid hazards.

Large-scale decorations are ideal for attracting foot traffic and boosting sales during the holiday season, but safety is a concern. Falls, electrical hazards, and trips can lead to injuries that can be devastating and damage your business. The commercial decorations safety tips in this article will prevent liabilities.

Although most businesses try to stay safe when decorating, processes may require some trial and error, and you don’t want to take chances with your business. You may be better off hiring the professional decorators at Dekra-Lite. We have years of experience with large-scale displays, and our team will ensure optimal safety and a professional appearance.

Contact us for the assistance you need hanging this year’s decor.

The permits required for commercial holiday decorations vary from state to state and depend on your decorating needs. For example, you will likely require a license if your decorations require electrical modifications, such as additional amps. You may also need a permit to host a holiday event related to your business in a public area.

Yes, many stores and shopping malls have weight limits for decorations to ensure they don’t pose a safety risk. However, they typically vary among businesses. If you are unsure of the weight limits that apply to your business, check with the mall or store management or consult a professional.

There are no laws stating you can’t install decorations yourself. However, if you work with large-scale displays and aren’t confident installing decorations safely, you may want to hire a professional. They have the skills to decorate quickly and safely, potentially saving you time and money.

When inspecting large decorations for safety, there’s no such thing as ‘too much’. You should inspect decorations at least once daily, especially after inclement weather.

Secure mounting hardware will prevent your lights from blowing away during the holiday season. Hooks, clips, nails, and cable ties are all recommended.