Ensuring Compliance with OSHA 1910.36(b)(2): A Checklist for Maritime and Shipping

In the maritime and shipping industry, safety is paramount. Compliance with OSHA's 1910.36(b)(2) standard, which mandates more than two exit routes in certain workplace conditions, is crucial for ensuring the safety of all employees during emergencies.

Understanding OSHA 1910.36(b)(2)

This regulation specifies that more than two exit routes are necessary when the number of employees, building size, occupancy, or workplace arrangement could hinder safe evacuation. In maritime and shipping environments, where the layout can be complex and the workforce substantial, adhering to this standard is not just a regulatory requirement but a lifesaving necessity.

Compliance Checklist

Here's a detailed checklist to guide maritime and shipping companies in achieving compliance with OSHA 1910.36(b)(2):

• Assess Employee Numbers: Calculate the total number of employees present at any given time. If the number exceeds what two exit routes can safely accommodate during an evacuation, additional routes are necessary.
• Evaluate Building Size and Layout: Consider the size and layout of your facilities. Larger areas or those with complex layouts may require more than two exits to ensure all areas can be evacuated promptly.
• Analyze Occupancy: Determine the maximum occupancy of each area within your facility. High occupancy areas might need more exit routes to prevent bottlenecks during an evacuation.
• Check Workplace Arrangement: Review the arrangement of your workplace. If machinery, storage, or other obstacles could impede evacuation, additional exit routes may be needed.
• Designate and Mark Exit Routes: Clearly mark all designated exit routes with signs and ensure they are unobstructed at all times. Use contrasting colors and illuminated signs where necessary for visibility.
• Conduct Regular Drills: Perform regular evacuation drills to test the effectiveness of your exit routes. Adjust the number or placement of exits based on the results of these drills.
• Train Employees: Educate all employees on the location and use of all exit routes. Include this in your regular safety training programs.
• Document Compliance: Keep detailed records of your assessments, drills, and training sessions to demonstrate compliance during OSHA inspections.

Real-World Application

I've seen firsthand how the layout of a maritime facility can drastically affect evacuation times. In one case, a shipping company I consulted with had a large warehouse area that required an additional exit route to ensure all employees could evacuate safely within the required time frame. By implementing an extra exit and conducting regular drills, they not only met the OSHA standard but also significantly improved their overall safety culture.

Additional Resources

For further guidance on OSHA compliance in the maritime and shipping industry, consider consulting resources from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the U.S. Department of Transportation's Maritime Administration. These organizations offer detailed regulations and best practices tailored to your industry's unique challenges.