Emergency Exits

 Emergency Exits

Emergency exit doors depend on the size and number of employees at the workplace. The building code requirement for a workplace is bigger than residential house, so workplaces must have at least two emergency exits. Emergency exits routes should not be close to each other. They must be permanent and large enough to evacuate the people in the building. Exits must lead the people outside or to a street or open space with access to outside. This cannot be blocked, it must have an emergency exit sign, and it must always be open. Workplaces, industrial buildings, and schools must have fire drills to practice using emergency exits. Emergency exit routes must have fire resistance materials according to the size of the building. OSHA‘s safety standard requires all workplaces have a written Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and training system. The EAP should include procedures for reporting emergencies, evacuation, alarm system, and names of the employees involved in the evacuation procedure. All employees should be educated and trained for emergency evacuation at the workplace.

  1. Emergency Exits:
  • Should not be less than 28 inches wide.
  • Must have adequate light.
  • Must not be blocked or cluttered with materials and equipment.
  • Must have a visible exit sign.
    • There must also be a sign along the exit path indicating the direction for discharge.
  • Must be maintained during constructions, repairs, or renovation.
  • Doors must be self-closing and made of fire resistant material.
  • Routes must be a permanent part of the building.
  1. In Addition:
  • Employees with special needs must be identified, as they may need help exiting the building.
  • Employees must be trained and educated on emergency evacuation procedures.