Ensuring OSHA 1910.36 Compliance in Colleges and Universities: A Comprehensive Checklist

Compliance with OSHA's 1910.36 standard is crucial for colleges and universities to ensure the safety of their students and staff. This regulation outlines specific design and construction requirements for exit routes, which are essential for emergency evacuations. Let's dive into a detailed checklist to help your institution meet these standards.

1. Adequate Number of Exits

Ensure that each building has enough exits to allow for safe evacuation. According to OSHA, the number of exits should be based on the occupant load and travel distance to the nearest exit. For example, if a lecture hall holds 300 students, there should be at least two exits, with no one seated more than 75 feet from an exit.

2. Unobstructed Access

All exit routes must remain free from obstructions at all times. I've seen universities where storage closets or temporary offices were set up in hallways, which is a direct violation of 1910.36. Regular inspections are crucial to ensure that nothing blocks the path to safety.

3. Proper Signage

Clear, visible signs are required to mark all exit routes. These signs should be illuminated and legible from a distance. In my experience, colleges often overlook the need for signs in less-used areas like basements or storage rooms, but these are just as important.

4. Exit Doors

Exit doors must open outward in the direction of exit travel and should not be locked or obstructed. I've encountered situations where doors were chained shut for security reasons, which is a serious violation. Ensure that all exit doors can be easily opened from the inside without keys or special knowledge.

5. Lighting and Marking

Exit routes must be adequately lit at all times. This includes emergency lighting that activates during power outages. I recommend regular testing of these systems, as I've seen cases where backup lighting failed during drills, which could be catastrophic in a real emergency.

6. Width and Capacity

The width of exit routes should be sufficient to accommodate the expected number of occupants. OSHA specifies a minimum width of 28 inches, but this may need to be wider in high-traffic areas. We've helped universities assess and modify their exit routes to ensure they meet these requirements.

7. Maintenance and Repairs

Regular maintenance is essential to keep exit routes in good condition. This includes fixing any damage to doors, walls, or flooring that could impede evacuation. Based on available research, a proactive maintenance schedule can prevent minor issues from becoming major safety hazards.

8. Training and Awareness

Finally, ensure that all staff and students are trained on the location and use of exit routes. Conduct regular drills to familiarize everyone with the evacuation process. I've found that institutions that prioritize training have fewer issues during actual emergencies.

By following this checklist, your college or university can achieve and maintain compliance with OSHA's 1910.36 standard. Remember, safety is an ongoing process, and regular reviews and updates to your safety protocols are essential.