Ensuring Compliance with OSHA 1910.36(b)(1): Two Exit Routes in Construction

When it comes to construction sites, safety isn't just a priority—it's the law. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) mandates that workplaces, including construction sites, have at least two exit routes to ensure swift and safe evacuation during emergencies. Here, we'll dive into a comprehensive checklist to help you meet the OSHA 1910.36(b)(1) requirement for two exit routes.

Understanding OSHA 1910.36(b)(1)

OSHA's regulation 1910.36(b)(1) states that at least two exit routes must be available in a workplace to permit prompt evacuation of employees and other building occupants during an emergency. In construction, this means ensuring that workers have two viable paths to safety, located as far away from each other as practical, to avoid both being blocked by the same hazard, such as fire or smoke.

Checklist for Compliance

To ensure your construction site meets the two exit routes requirement, follow this detailed checklist:

1. Identify and Map Exit Routes

• Conduct a thorough site assessment to identify potential exit routes.
• Create a detailed map of the construction site, clearly marking the two exit routes.
• Ensure the exit routes are as far apart as practical to minimize the risk of both being compromised.

2. Ensure Accessibility and Clarity

• Exit routes must be free of obstructions at all times.
• Signage should be clear and visible, guiding workers to both exit routes.
• Ensure that exit routes are well-lit, especially during night-time operations.

3. Regular Maintenance and Inspections

• Schedule regular inspections to ensure exit routes remain clear and accessible.
• Document these inspections to demonstrate compliance during OSHA audits.
• Address any issues immediately to maintain compliance.

4. Training and Drills

• Conduct regular safety training sessions focusing on the importance of knowing and using both exit routes.
• Perform evacuation drills to ensure all workers are familiar with the routes and can evacuate promptly.
• Keep records of training and drills to show ongoing compliance efforts.

5. Special Considerations for Construction

In construction, the dynamic nature of the work environment means exit routes can change. It's crucial to:

• Regularly update exit route maps as the construction progresses.
• Communicate changes to all workers promptly.
• Consider temporary structures or pathways that may need to be adjusted or removed to maintain clear exit routes.

Additional Resources

For further guidance on OSHA compliance, consider the following resources:

• OSHA's official website at www.osha.gov for detailed regulations and compliance assistance.
• The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) at www.cdc.gov/niosh for additional safety research and resources.

By following this checklist and staying informed through trusted resources, you can ensure your construction site remains compliant with OSHA's two exit routes requirement, keeping your workforce safe and prepared for any emergency.