Workplace Fires: Exit Strategies
In a workplace fire being able to evacuate quickly can mean the difference between life and death. Workers may have only seconds to safely evacuate a burning building.
"Workplace fires and explosions kill 200 and injure more than 5,000 workers each year," according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. "Fires wreak havoc among workers and their families and destroy thousands of businesses each year, putting people out of work and severely impacting their livelihoods. The human and financial toll underscores the serious nature of workplace fires," according to former labor secretary Robert B. Reich. Fire can be caused by many factors, including friction, electrical malfunctions, sparks, open flames, hot surfaces, and unsafe use and/or storage of chemicals. Most states and cities have fire department and building code regulations covering fire prevention and protection. In addition, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration has several standards covering these areas. 29CFR1910.38, for example, applies to requirements for employee emergency exit plans.
Fire Exits
There are several important points concerning fire exits:
- There must be at least two exits which are separate from each other so that if one is blocked by fire another is available for escape. More than two exits may be required depending on the number of people to evacuate and the level of fire danger.
- Exits should not be locked or blocked. If doors are locked for security reasons, they must be able to be opened immediately in an emergency.
- Exits, and the pathways to exits, should be clearly marked, easy to get to and well lit. Every exit sign should be illuminated by a reliable light source. Doors and passageways that are not fire exits should be marked "NOT AN EXIT."
Fire Drills
Fire drills should be conducted on a regular basis so that every worker knows how to evacuate the building quickly. You need to know where your nearest exit and alternative exit are located.
Emergency Action Plan
Employers should develop an emergency action plan. This plan should include a written policy that includes at least the following:
- How to report a fire
- How and where employees will escape the building including how disabled employees and employees involved in shutting down critical plant equipment will be evacuated.
- The type of emergency alarm system(s) to be used throughout the workplace.
- Training and retraining on evacuation procedures for all employees.
- Designation of fire wardens or other responsible individuals who can answer questions and give further information.
This plan can also be used as a basis for planning for other emergencies, such as chemical releases, severe weather conditions or security threats.
Evacuation Safety Points
If you are escaping from a building:
- Know your escape route
- Don't use the elevator or escape to the roof
- Close all doors behind you to slow the spread of the fire.
- The smoke is often the most hazardous part of a fire. If it is smoky, stay close to the floor; crawl if necessary.
- Don't open a door if it feels hot.
The OSHA law says no worker should ever be required to fight a fire unless they have received proper training to fight a fire and use the available fire extinguishers. Fire extinguishers should only be used to put out small fires or help in the escape. Fires that are spreading rapidly, have extreme heat or are very smokey are out of control. You should get out immediately.
For more information on fire prevention and protection contact:
Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union
Health and Safety Department
30 East 29th Street
New York, NY 10016