Properly created evacuation plans will account for a number of potential emergency conditions. These conditions should be both internal and external, and should consider OSHA Standard 1910.36 and Standard 1910.37. These standards guide you in creating the actual evacuation plan and in maintaining the evacuation routes. Simply pointing employees to the nearest exit will not suffice in a true emergency.

Standard 1910.36 specifically discusses the design and construction requirements for exit routes. This standard covers the number of exits required, the number of paths to said exits which are required, the types of exit doors which must be used, and what types of materials must be used in the construction of exit doors and routes. Based upon your facility and your needs, this standard can help you to ensure you create a truly effective evacuation plan.

Standard 1910.37 discusses the maintenance, safeguards, and operational features for exit routes. This standard sets the guidelines for maintaining the routes established in the evacuation plan. It covers everything from lighting and paint to door maintenance and what to do in the event construction is being done to the evacuation route. So where Standard 1910.36 will help you establish your evacuation plan on paper, Standard 1910.37 will help you to maintain these evacuation routes in the event of a real emergency.

If you have not recently reviewed your evacuation plan or if you do not have a true plan in place, it might be time to have a qualified third party firm review your plans. If you have any questions about evacuation plan reviews or creating a new evacuation plan, please contact us. If you have anything to add about creating an effective evacuation plan, please leave a comment.