Check Your Emergency Exit Routes for OSHA Compliance

The design requirements for exit routes are found in 29 CFR 1910.36. Here’s a quick look at the basic requirements.

Is each exit a permanent part of your facility? [1910.36(a)(1)]
Do the construction materials used to separate exits have at least a one-hour fire resistance rating if the exit connects three stories or less? [1910.36(a)(2)]
Do the construction materials used to separate exits have at least a two-hour fire resistance rating if the exit connects four stories or more? [1910.36(a)(2)]
Do your exits have only the openings necessary to permit access from occupied areas of the workplace? [1910.36(a)(3)]
Is each opening to an exit protected by a self-closing fire door that remains closed? [1910.36(a)(3)]
Do you have an adequate number of exit routes? [1910.36(b)(1),(2),(3)]
Does each exit discharge lead directly outside to a street, walkway, refuge area, or to an open space with access to the outside? [1910.36(c)(1)]
Is the outside area to which an exit discharge leads large enough to accommodate all building occupants likely to use that exit route? [1910.36(c)(2)]
Do exit stairs that continue beyond the floor of the exit have a door or other effective means that clearly indicates the direction of travel leading to the exit discharge? [1910.36(c)(3)]