Understanding OSHA 1910.36: Exit Route Design and Construction in Printing and Publishing

When it comes to safety in the printing and publishing industry, the design and construction of exit routes are critical. OSHA's 1910.36 standard sets the requirements to ensure safe evacuation in case of emergencies. Let's dive into what these regulations mean for your facility.

Basic Requirements of 1910.36

OSHA 1910.36 outlines the design and construction criteria for exit routes. The goal is to ensure that all employees can evacuate quickly and safely during an emergency. This standard applies to all workplaces, including printing and publishing facilities.

Key Elements for Printing and Publishing

In the printing and publishing sector, the layout often includes large machinery and storage areas. Here are the key elements of 1910.36 you need to consider:

• Exit Access: The path to an exit must be clear and unobstructed at all times. In a printing facility, this means ensuring that paper rolls, ink containers, and other materials do not block the way.
• Exit Route Capacity: The exit route must be wide enough to accommodate the number of employees. For a busy printing press operation, this might require wider exits to handle the volume of people during an evacuation.
• Exit Discharge: The exit must lead directly outside or to a safe area. In a multi-story publishing house, this could mean ensuring that stairwells are free from clutter and lead to a safe evacuation point.

Real-World Application

I've seen firsthand how critical these requirements are. In one printing facility I consulted with, we had to rearrange the layout to ensure that the exit routes were not only compliant but also practical for daily operations. We moved large paper storage units away from the exits and implemented a system to keep these areas clear at all times.

Compliance Tips

To ensure compliance with 1910.36, consider the following tips:

• Regularly inspect exit routes for obstructions.
• Train employees on the importance of keeping exit routes clear.
• Conduct evacuation drills to test the effectiveness of your exit routes.

By adhering to OSHA 1910.36, you not only meet regulatory requirements but also enhance the safety and well-being of your workforce. For more detailed guidance, you might find the OSHA's official page on this standard helpful.