Ensuring Compliance with OSHA 1910.36(a): A Comprehensive Checklist for Exit Route Safety

Ensuring that your workplace's exit routes meet the stringent requirements of OSHA 1910.36(a) is crucial for maintaining a safe environment. Here, I'll walk you through a detailed checklist to help you assess and achieve compliance, drawing from my experience in safety management.

Checklist for 1910.36(a)(1): Permanent Exit Routes

First off, every exit route must be a permanent part of the workplace. This means no temporary setups or makeshift solutions. From my time consulting with various industries, I've seen how easily this can be overlooked, especially in rapidly growing businesses. Ensure your exit routes are fixed and clearly marked.

Checklist for 1910.36(a)(2): Fire-Resistant Separation

Your exit routes need to be separated by fire-resistant materials. Based on available research, the construction materials used should have a one-hour fire resistance rating if the exit connects three or fewer stories, and a two-hour rating if it connects four or more stories. I've seen firsthand how critical this is during emergency evacuations; the right materials can make all the difference.

Checklist for 1910.36(a)(3): Limited Openings into Exits

Openings into an exit must be limited and only necessary for access from occupied areas or to the exit discharge. Each opening must be protected by a self-closing fire door that automatically closes during an emergency. From my experience, ensuring these doors are listed or approved by a nationally recognized testing laboratory, as defined by OSHA sections 1910.155(c)(3)(iv)(A) and 1910.7, is non-negotiable.

By following this checklist, you'll be well on your way to ensuring your workplace complies with OSHA 1910.36(a). Remember, individual results may vary, and it's always best to consult with a safety expert to tailor these guidelines to your specific environment.