When Can a Company Be OSHA 1910.36(h) Compliant Yet Still Experience Injuries in Laboratories?

Compliance with OSHA's 1910.36(h) regulation on outdoor exit routes is crucial for ensuring safe evacuation during emergencies. However, even when a company meets these standards, injuries can still occur within laboratory settings due to various factors. Understanding these nuances is essential for maintaining a safe workplace.

Understanding OSHA 1910.36(h) Compliance

OSHA's 1910.36(h) mandates that outdoor exit routes must adhere to the same minimum height and width requirements as indoor routes. These specifications ensure that employees can safely and quickly evacuate the premises. Compliance with this regulation is non-negotiable for any facility, including laboratories.

Why Injuries Still Occur in Compliant Laboratories

Despite strict adherence to OSHA 1910.36(h), laboratories can still face safety challenges. Here are some reasons why injuries might still happen:

• Human Error: Even with proper training, human mistakes can lead to accidents. For example, a researcher might mishandle chemicals or equipment, resulting in an injury.
• Equipment Malfunction: Laboratory equipment can fail unexpectedly, causing harm to those nearby. Regular maintenance and inspections are critical to mitigate these risks.
• Chemical Hazards: Laboratories often deal with hazardous chemicals. Spills, leaks, or improper storage can lead to accidents, even in a compliant environment.
• Inadequate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): If the PPE provided does not meet the specific hazards of the lab, injuries can occur despite overall compliance with exit route standards.

Strategies to Enhance Laboratory Safety

To minimize the risk of injuries in laboratories, even when compliant with OSHA 1910.36(h), consider the following strategies:

• Continuous Training: Regular safety training sessions can reinforce proper handling and emergency procedures. In my experience, frequent drills and updates on safety protocols significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents.
• Equipment Checks: Implement a rigorous schedule for equipment maintenance and inspections. This proactive approach can prevent many accidents caused by equipment failure.
• Hazardous Material Management: Proper storage, labeling, and disposal of chemicals are vital. We've seen that a well-organized chemical inventory system can prevent spills and exposure incidents.
• PPE Assessment: Conduct regular assessments to ensure that the PPE provided is suitable for the specific hazards present in the lab. Tailoring PPE to the unique risks of your lab environment is crucial.

While compliance with OSHA 1910.36(h) is a fundamental aspect of workplace safety, it is only one part of a comprehensive safety strategy. By addressing the additional factors that can lead to injuries in laboratories, companies can create a safer environment for their employees. For more in-depth guidance on laboratory safety, consider resources from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and the American Chemical Society (ACS).