April 23, 2003—The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has released a new fact sheet concerning Emergency Exit Routes. It answers questions such as: “How would you escape from your workplace in an emergency? Do you know where all the exits are in case your first choice is too crowded? Are you sure the doors will be unlocked and that the exit access, such as a hallway, will not be blocked during a fire, explosion, or other crisis?”
The fact sheet not only defines exit routes and explains how many exit routes a worksite should have, but also provides information on how to design an exit route that will ensure safe evacuation for all workers. Also included is a list of required maintenance, safeguarding, and operational features for exit routes.
The fact sheet provides information on emergency action plan requirements, detailing the plan’s minimum elements, such as procedures for reporting fires and other emergencies, personnel accountability, alarm systems, etc. Minimum provisions and requirements for fire prevention plans are also outlined in the fact sheet. Finally, a list of resources for more details on exit routes and related OSHA standards are provided.
OSHA recently revamped its 30-year-old standard dealing with exit routes, emergency action, and fire prevention plans. Inconsistent and duplicative requirements were replaced with straightforward terms that aid workers and employers in understanding the regulation. The revised standard was effective on December 9, 2002.
Employers who comply with the exit route provisions of the National Fire Protection Association’s 101-2000, Life Safety Code, will be considered in compliance with the OSHA requirements for exit routes.
