Understanding OSHA 1910.36(g) in Corrugated Packaging: Minimum Height & Width Requirements

When it comes to ensuring safety in the corrugated packaging industry, understanding and adhering to OSHA's 1910.36(g) is crucial. This regulation outlines the minimum height and width requirements for exit routes, which are essential for safe evacuation during emergencies.

Height Requirements

According to 1910.36(g)(1), the ceiling of an exit route must be at least seven feet six inches (2.3 m) high. This ensures that workers can move through the exit route without obstruction. Any projections from the ceiling must not reach a point less than six feet eight inches (2.0 m) from the floor. In corrugated packaging facilities, where machinery and storage systems often reach high, this regulation is particularly important. We've seen cases where improperly installed equipment has violated these requirements, leading to potential safety hazards.

Width Requirements

1910.36(g)(2) mandates that an exit access must be at least 28 inches (71.1 cm) wide at all points. In facilities where there is only one exit access leading to an exit or exit discharge, the width of the exit and exit discharge must be at least equal to the width of the exit access. This is critical in corrugated packaging plants, where narrow aisles can lead to bottlenecks during evacuations.

Additionally, 1910.36(g)(3) requires that the width of an exit route must be sufficient to accommodate the maximum permitted occupant load of each floor served by the exit route. This means that in a large corrugated packaging facility, the exit routes must be wide enough to allow all employees to evacuate safely and quickly.

Finally, 1910.36(g)(4) states that objects projecting into the exit route must not reduce the width of the exit route to less than the minimum width requirements for exit routes. In practice, this means that pallets, machinery, or other equipment in a corrugated packaging plant must not obstruct the exit routes.

In my experience, ensuring compliance with these regulations in corrugated packaging facilities often involves regular audits and adjustments to the layout of the plant. Based on available research, individual results may vary, but adhering to these standards significantly reduces the risk of accidents and improves overall safety.

For further reading, the OSHA website provides detailed guidance on these regulations, and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) offers additional resources on fire safety and egress in industrial settings.