What is a Lanyard and what is a Lanyard used for - Infographic!

What are lanyards used for?

Lanyards are used everywhere, from holding RFID key cards that opening office doors, to the coveted VIP and backstage passes used at events. They can be fully customised, with a choice of widths, clips and attachments. So, how can businesses or large organisations use lanyards in their day-to-day operations? Here are just a few common uses:

Identity cards

One of the most common uses for a lanyard is as an identity card holder. A lanyard can easily hold ID cards, name tags, staff passes, and other forms of identification that can make it easier for customers or attendees of an event to locate authorised personnel. 

Schools and universities

Schools and universities often insist that staff members working on-site wear an ID lanyard, allowing students and pupils to easily identify those who work in their organisation - and those who don't (equally as important). This can be useful especially when it comes to pupil or student safety; a lanyard symbolises authority and trustworthiness for those seeking help or assistance and can help to prevent intruders.

Ticket holders

Event organisers can also use lanyards for distributing tickets; a simple fabric loop can be used to hold a ticket, wristband or even access card - allowing staff members to manage entry into specific areas with ease. 
This type of setup is often found at festivals, conventions and other larger events, where keeping track of the various ticket types (VIP, etc) can be difficult.
Lanyards are often brightly coloured and patterned to make them easier to spot; for example, security staff will often wear lanyards during large events, so that anyone in need of directions, aid, or assistance can easily get help.
Anyone who works in a profession where identification or access control is required can benefit from wearing lanyards. From security officers and medical staff, to hospitality workers and corporate professionals - lanyards are used by almost any type of industry and organisation.

Types of Lanyards

There are many types of lanyards available to buy today, ranging from plain cords made out of fabric or nylon to more elaborate versions with built-in features like USB ports, bottle openers and even carabiner clips. However, the most common types of lanyards include the following:

Fabric/nylon Lanyards

The most common type of lanyard uses fabrics like nylon, ensuring non-friction around the neck while still being strong enough to hold small items. Fabric lanyards can come in a variety of colours, designs, and lengths, and can even be customised to reflect a brand's marketing colours or brand identity.

Recyclable Lanyards

You can now have your lanyards with recycled material made from plastic bottles. These recycled PET lanyards will help reduce your environmental impact but maintain a premium look. Fully customisable

Loop Lanyards

The most common type of lanyard is known as a loop lanyard, and is a flat woven lanyard that has one single "loop" at one end where items can be attached; other variations include breakaway lanyards (which snap apart if pulled hard), dye-sublimation printed lanyards (with high resolution graphics) and screen printed lanyards (which are printed with a single colour).

Easy to wear and access

Lanyards make it easy to access important ID cards or tickets quickly and securely, without having to rummage through your bag or rely on digital access control. Plus, they're lightweight, meaning that they can be worn around the neck or wrists without the risk of friction or added weight or strain. Lanyards are also your number-one protection against loss and theft; as they're worn around the neck, it's much more difficult for you to lose your ID card or have it stolen.

Durable

Most lanyards are made from strong materials such as nylon or polyester, so they're able to withstand wear-and-tear over time - even a rough-and-tumble rock concert! This also makes them a great choice for long-term staff members or employees in an organisation, shop, school, or any other on-site workplace.

Customisable

Many companies offer custom lanyards that feature logos, colours, patterns and other designs that reflect their branding and brand identity. ( View our work lanyards and branded lanyards with logos) This can be a great way for businesses to show off their marketing efforts while also adding a convenient feature to their workplace attire. Plus, if staff information is readily visible on their lanyard, this can also help to build trust between customers and staff members.

Enhance security

Lanyards are also a great way to enhance security; they can be used as access control or identity verification, ensuring that only authorised personnel are allowed into certain areas of your office or business. This is especially useful if your organisation deals with sensitive information such as financial data or customer records - lanyards allow you to easily identify who has access and where.

Cost-effective

Lanyards are usually very affordable, making them great value for money, as opposed to implementing costly digital access control or app-based access control.

Versatility

Finally, lanyards are incredibly versatile and can be used for a variety of different purposes, from holding ID cards to keeping track of keys or wallets. Whether you work on a construction site, within a large office space, or manage an event - there's certain to be a lanyard option that will suit your specific needs.