Emergency Exits: OSHA Compliant Guidelines for Businesses

Emergency exits are among the most important features of any business or commercial property. If you’re in Jacksonville, FL, Perimeter Glass can help ensure yours are compliant with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines. These regulations are critical for employee safety and your business’s legal standing. Neglecting them can result in hefty fines or devastating workplace injuries. Read further for an explanation of OSHA-compliant emergency exit guidelines, maintenance tips, and how our experts can help keep your business safe and up to code.

Why Emergency Exits Matter in Workplaces

Emergency exits are lifelines during unexpected incidents like fires, power outages, and hazardous spills. They give employees safe, clear paths to leave the building quickly. Following OSHA regulations showcases your company’s commitment to the well-being of your staff and visitors. Think of it this way: an ill-prepared exit can cause confusion during critical times, while an OSHA-compliant exit saves lives and reduces risks.

Understanding OSHA Requirements for Emergency Exits

OSHA provides clear regulations to ensure businesses set up safe and functional emergency exits. These rules address how businesses should design, maintain, and operate emergency exit plans. They include:

• Number of Exits – Every workplace must have at least two emergency exits. However, that number may increase depending on workplace size and the number of employees. The key is ensuring everyone can evacuate safely, even if one exit becomes inaccessible.
• Visibility and Accessibility – Exits must remain clear of obstructions and be easy to reach. No one should have to fumble through storage areas or around equipment to use an exit. Proper signage with visible “EXIT” labels is mandatory.
• Exit Doors and Pathways – OSHA requires that exits open outwards to prevent overcrowded doorways. Pathways to these exits must also be free from clutter and hazards. Glass doors must adhere to specific safety standards, such as break-resistant materials and labeled glazing for visibility.
• Emergency Lighting – Escape routes should remain illuminated during power outages. Emergency lighting helps employees locate exits quickly, even in complete darkness.

Design and Construction Standards for Emergency Exits

Meeting OSHA standards is essential when designing or upgrading emergency exits. Here are some critical factors we must consider:

• Durable Construction Materials – Doors, frames, and pathways should be made of sturdy, heat- and fire-resistant materials. Glass components must be shatterproof, and businesses should always act quickly when emergency glass repair is needed.
• Clear Signage – Install clear and glowing exit signs above each emergency door. OSHA specifies that signs must be visible from at least 100 feet away.
• Proper Width and Height – Emergency exit doors and pathways must meet size regulations, typically 28 inches wide. A cramped exit could become a choking point during an evacuation.
• Emergency Glass Safety – Glass used in emergency exits should be safe and secure. Perimeter Glass offers glass that meets OSHA’s safety standards and prevents injuries caused by breakages during emergencies.

Emergency Exit Care and Operation Suggestions

Having well-designed emergency exits isn’t enough if you don’t maintain them. Regular upkeep will ensure they remain functional during critical times. You should:

• Conduct monthly checks to clear pathways and ensure all exits open easily.
• Test emergency lighting systems regularly.
• Replace damaged or cracked glass immediately with emergency glass replacement services.
• Inspect signage for visibility and functionality. Ensure glowing or lit signs are working during power outages.

Tips to Maintain OSHA Compliance and Prepare for Audits

We recommend all of the following actions to our customers so that they can ensure their businesses stay compliant with OSHA guidelines:

• Schedule Inspections – Conduct routine safety audits to identify and fix issues before they escalate. Consistent inspections will help you avoid fines and protect your employees.
• Employee Training – Regular fire drills and training sessions ensure employees understand evacuation routes and safety protocols.
• Quick Repairs – Broken glass along emergency exits is a hazard waiting to happen. Work with the Perimeter Glass experts whenever you need emergency glass repair or replacement.
• Use a Compliance Checklist – Download OSHA’s workplace safety checklist to stay on top of essential safety regulations.

Rely on Our Experts in Jacksonville, FL

Perimeter Glass specializes in emergency glass repair and replacement, among other services in Jacksonville, FL. We provide shatterproof glass solutions and offer OSHA compliance consultations to ensure local businesses are safe and secure. Our team is committed to meeting or exceeding high industry standards to guarantee our customers’ emergency exits are functional and compliant.

Contact Perimeter Glass Today

No business can predict emergencies, but every business can prepare for them. Having OSHA-compliant emergency exits is necessary for safety and peace of mind. Let Perimeter Glass help with emergency exit upgrades, glass repairs, and more. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.