In the event of an emergency, it is important to have a plan in place which allows your employees to safely exit the facility. This plan should also include elements which allow for multiple escape routes, if the building has multiple entrances, in the event one is blocked. Further, there should be a set procedure for ensuring the employees are all out of the building and safe. And finally, you want to be sure you have an effective business continuity strategy to keep your business up and running, even in times of emergency.

When establishing your evacuation plan, you need to ensure you are compliant with OSHA Standard 1910.36 and Standard 1910.37. These standards set guidelines on how to create specific evacuation routes, how to maintain the routes, and what features are required in the routes and the exits. These standards are also of extreme importance when building a new facility, as they explain what is required of the construction of evacuation routes and exits.

If you have a plan in place and are worried it does not conform to these standards, or if you need to establish a new evacuation plan, it might make sense to consider a third party safety audit. A good third party safety auditor will ensure your plan fully adheres to OSHA Standards 1910.36 and 1910.37, and that your plan will keep your business running smoothly through an emergency situation.

If you would like more information about establishing an evacuation plan, please contact us. And if you have anything to add, please leave a comment.