Workplace Fire Safety Tips: Emergency Exit Signs and Exit Routes

With the seasons changing and many of us heading back to the office, it’s a great time to freshen up on fire safety training for the workplace. Whether you are a business owner or manager, take time out for a quick course on the important reminders of fire safety best practices for all your employees.

Emergency Exit Signs & Routes

Most workplaces are required to have at minimum two exit routes available at all times. The exit route must be clearly marked and lead to an area outside that is large enough for all building occupants to safely fit.

Marking an exit route inside the building can include several different components depending on the length of the route and location of the exit. OSHA standards also state that employers must meet the following exit route requirements:

• Exit routes are kept free of explosive or highly flammable furnishings/decor.
• Exit routes should not require travel through a high-hazard area unless the path is effectively shielded from the area.
• Exit routes need to be unobstructed by materials, locked doors, or dead-end corridors.
• Safeguards designed to protect employees during an emergency are in good working order.
• Adequate lighting for exit routes is applied.
• Emergency exit signs and other necessary signs indicate the direction of travel to the nearest exit and exit discharge if that direction is not immediately apparent.
• The line-of-sight to an emergency exit sign must be visible at all times.
• Mark doors or passages along the route that could be mistaken for an exit “Not an Exit” or with a sign identifying its use (such as “Stairwell”).
• Install “EXIT” signs per NFPA and local requirements.
• Ensure you have an emergency alarm system in good working order.

Fire Extinguishers

OSHA Section 1910.157 requires that all employers designate certain employees to use the available portable fire extinguishers. This means that all other employees in the fire area immediately evacuate upon the sounding of the fire alarm.

It is required by OSHA and the NFPA that fire extinguishers are easily visible. This means having at minimum one fire extinguisher sign so anyone can quickly and easily locate the fire extinguisher. Make sure the sign is not obstructed. Consider adding a fire extinguisher sign with an arrow if the location is not easily noticeable.

Have an Emergency Action Plan

Every business should establish an emergency action plan. Employees should be trained on this upon starting and it’s also recommended to re-connect on the topic at least once per year.

Minimal practices to include in your emergency action plan per OSHA include:

• Procedures for reporting fires and other emergencies.
• Procedures for emergency evacuation, including the type of evacuation and exit route assignments.
• Procedures for employees who stay behind to continue critical plant operations. • Procedures to account for all employees after evacuation.
• Procedures for employees performing rescue or medical duties.
• Name or job title of employees to contact for detailed plan information.
• Alarm system to alert workers.

Need Emergency Exit and Fire Safety Signs?

Our team at Jessups has been outfitting buildings for decades with their emergency exit and egress systems. We take fire safety seriously and are happy to answer your questions.