Ensuring Safe Exit Routes in Casinos: Training to Prevent OSHA 1910.36 Violations

In the bustling environment of a casino, ensuring the safety of both employees and patrons is paramount. OSHA's 29 CFR 1910.36(h) sets forth specific standards for outdoor exit routes to prevent accidents and ensure safe evacuation during emergencies. Let's dive into how targeted training can help casinos maintain compliance and prevent violations.

Understanding OSHA 1910.36(h) Requirements

OSHA 1910.36(h) mandates several key conditions for outdoor exit routes in casinos:

• Guardrails: If a fall hazard exists, the route must have guardrails to protect unenclosed sides.
• Coverage: Routes must be covered if snow or ice accumulation is likely, unless the employer can prove regular clearance.
• Straight and Level: The route should be reasonably straight with smooth, solid, and level walkways.
• Dead-Ends: No dead-end should exceed 20 feet in length.

Essential Training for Compliance

To prevent violations and ensure the safety of all, casinos must implement comprehensive training programs tailored to these requirements. Here’s how training can address each OSHA standard:

Guardrail Installation and Maintenance

Training should include detailed instruction on installing and maintaining guardrails. Employees must understand the importance of these safety features and how to check their integrity regularly. I've seen firsthand how a well-trained maintenance crew can prevent serious falls by ensuring that guardrails are always up to code.

Snow and Ice Management

In regions where snow and ice are common, training must cover the procedures for clearing these hazards from exit routes. Employees should be trained on using appropriate tools and the frequency of checks necessary to keep routes clear. Based on available research, individual results may vary, but consistent training can significantly reduce slip-and-fall incidents.

Maintaining Straight and Level Walkways

Casinos need to train their staff on recognizing and correcting deviations from the required standards for walkway straightness and levelness. This includes regular inspections and immediate reporting of any issues. I recall working with a casino that reduced trip hazards by 30% after implementing a rigorous training and inspection program.

Managing Dead-Ends

Training should also address the layout of exit routes to ensure no dead-ends exceed 20 feet. Staff must be familiar with the casino’s layout and know how to guide patrons safely during an evacuation. An effective way to enforce this is through regular drills that simulate emergency evacuations.

Integrating Training into Casino Operations

To ensure that training is not just a one-off event but a part of daily operations, casinos should:

• Conduct regular refresher courses to keep safety protocols top of mind.
• Use real-world scenarios and case studies to illustrate the importance of compliance.
• Implement a system for reporting and addressing safety concerns promptly.

By integrating these training practices, casinos can not only prevent OSHA 1910.36(h) violations but also foster a culture of safety that protects everyone on the premises.