25 Uses for a Lanyard: From NHS to Everyday Life
25 Uses for a Lanyard: From NHS to Everyday Life
Lanyards are simple, practical accessories that you probably see every day without giving much thought to their many uses. But what is a lanyard used for? Whether you work in healthcare, attend events, or just want a convenient way to carry essentials, lanyards are surprisingly versatile. In this article, we’ll explore 25 common uses for lanyards. From the NHS, to everyday life, so you can understand just how handy these little straps really are.
At its core, a lanyard is a strap worn around the neck, wrist, or attached to a belt loop, designed to hold small items securely and keep them easily accessible. What are you supposed to put on a lanyard? Traditionally, lanyards are used to carry ID badges, keys, or access cards. But today, their uses have expanded across various industries and personal needs.
1. Carrying ID Cards and Badges
One of the most popular answers to “What is a lanyard used for?” is holding ID cards or badges. In workplaces, schools, and conferences, lanyards help display identification clearly and prevent loss.
2. NHS Use: Keeping Staff and Patients Safe
What is a lanyard used for in NHS? In the NHS, lanyards are essential for carrying ID badges, key cards, and alerting staff to hidden disabilities with the sunflower lanyard scheme. This helps improve communication and patient care within hospitals.
3. Holding Keys
What do people put on a lanyard? Keys are one of the most common items. Many people put their keys on a lanyard to avoid losing them and to keep them within easy reach.
4. Attaching Car Keys
Why do people put lanyards on their car keys? It’s simple! It makes keys easier to find and handle, especially when you’re on the go or juggling multiple things. If you’re wondering, “Do you keep your keys on a lanyard?” - many do for this very reason.
5. Keeping Access Cards Handy
In secure buildings, access cards must be scanned regularly. What are you supposed to put on a lanyard in this case? Your access card, of course. This setup saves time and prevents misplacement.
6. Carrying USB Drives or Small Electronics
USB sticks, mini torches, or earbuds, these are great answers to “What do people put on a lanyard?” It keeps them close and hard to lose.
7. Event Passes and Tickets
What is a lanyard used for at events? Holding passes or tickets for instant access. This is common at concerts, festivals, and conventions.
8. Holding Whistles or Safety Tools
Sports officials and safety personnel often attach whistles or other small tools - yet another example of what a lanyard is used for.
9. Displaying Membership Cards
From gym access to library cards, lanyards offer a convenient way to keep frequently used cards on you. What are you supposed to put on a lanyard? Anything you use often and need quick access to.
10. Fashion Accessories
Personalised or branded lanyards can also serve as fashion statements. And yes, fashion is a valid answer when someone asks, “What is a lanyard used for?”
11. Carrying Mobile Phones
With secure holders, lanyards can keep phones accessible, great for workplaces, warehouses, or even outdoor adventures.
12. Keeping Personal Protective Equipment Handy
In healthcare (including the NHS), lanyards are used to hold masks or safety glasses. What is a lanyard used for in NHS? PPE, ID cards, and improving staff efficiency.
13. Holding Pens or Small Stationery Items
Teachers and office workers know exactly what to put on a lanyard - pens, name tags, or sticky notes for quick reach.
14. Keeping Tickets for Transport
Transit cards, bus passes, and tickets are commonly attached to lanyards, especially for regular commuters.
15. Holding Mini Tools
Electricians and technicians often put small screwdrivers or utility tools on lanyards. It’s practical and efficient.
16. Carrying Remote Controls or Clickers
Presenters might keep a remote or laser pointer on a lanyard for convenience - and fewer lost clickers!
17. Keeping Emergency Contact Information
Parents or carers often ask, “What do people put on a lanyard for safety?” Cards with contact or medical info are a great option.
18. Identification for Volunteers
Events and organisations often provide lanyards with badges so volunteers are easily identified by attendees or staff.
19. Carrying Access Cards in Schools
In schools, both staff and students benefit from using lanyards. What is a lanyard used for in NHS and education? The principle is the same. Convenience and quick identification.
20. Holding Loyalty Cards
If you shop often, keeping your loyalty cards on a lanyard saves digging through your wallet. What are you supposed to put on a lanyard? Loyalty cards are perfect.
21. Carrying Small Cameras or GoPros
For outdoor enthusiasts, lanyards are useful for securing mini cameras, another smart way to prevent accidents or drops.
22. Securing Tickets and Passes for Cruises
Do people still wear lanyards on cruises? Absolutely. It’s the easiest way to carry ship passes and ID in one place.
23. Promoting Brands or Companies
Branded lanyards are a subtle but effective marketing tool - and are often kept and reused by recipients.
24. Personalised Lanyards for Teachers or Staff
Schools often order custom lanyards for staff. If you’re wondering what do people put on a lanyard here - it’s ID cards, whistles, or small items like USBs.
25. As a Safety Device in Workplaces
Some lanyards double as breakaway safety devices, especially in high-risk industries. What is a lanyard used for in NHS and industrial settings? Safety first.
What Should Lanyards Be Attached Only To?
What are you supposed to put on a lanyard? Lightweight items like badges, keys, or cards. Avoid heavy or sharp objects that may cause injury or strain when worn around the neck.
Should You Put Your Keys on a Lanyard?
Many people do. It’s convenient and helps keep your keys from disappearing into the depths of a bag or pocket. Do you keep your keys on a lanyard? If not, it’s worth trying, just make sure they aren’t too heavy.
Lanyards might seem like simple accessories, but their uses go far beyond holding ID cards. Whether you work in the NHS, attend events, or just want to keep your keys handy, a lanyard is a practical solution to help keep your essentials secure and accessible. Next time you pick one up, think about all the ways it can make your day easier!
For advice or to enquire, call us on 0333 7000 123, or contact our friendly team of experts here!