3.1.

Exit paths must be clearly identifiable and clearly marked with visible signs if the path is not immediately apparent.  Floor markings and arrows are often used to direct people to the emergency exit doors.

3.2.

Exit paths must be clear and consideration must be given to adequate path width for occupancy.  Exit paths should not be routed through boiler rooms and other high hazard areas.

3.3.

Exit paths and exit doors must be distinguishable during emergency conditions.   Exit doors must be marked and illuminated to provide a visible sign during emergencies.  Exit paths must be illuminated to assist people in traveling to the emergency exit doors.  All illumination must be reliable during an emergency.

3.4.

Doors and paths that can be mistaken for exits must be appropriately marked to prevent employees from entering during an emergency.  Such doors and paths should be clearly posted to prevent entry.

3.5.

All exit doors must be free to open.  Exit doors must be side-hinged and swing in the direction of the exit path to allow for quick exiting.

3.6.

Revolving, sliding, and overhead doors are prohibited from serving as emergency exit doors.  Such doors will not allow adequate and safe discharge from a building.

3.7.

Exit doors must open and swing in the direction of exit travel and employees must be able to open the door without any special knowledge or hardware such as keys.

3.8.

Exit doors leading to streets or other areas where vehicles are present must be posted to alert employees of hazard.  If possible, barriers or guards should be placed on the exit discharge to protect the employee from vehicles.  Guardrails are often used to direct the employees out of danger.

3.9.

All exit paths and doors must be kept clear at all times.  Daily and weekly inspections should be conducted to ensure the area is free of obstructions on the exit paths, exit door, and discharge area.

3.10.

As a minimum requirement, two exits must be provided for each floor, and the recommended distance to the exit should be no more than 200 feet in an unsprinkled industrial general building.  The number and distance to an emergency exit will vary by the type of hazards in the plant.

3.11.

Construction and repair of a building often creates hazards that interfere with emergency evacuation of a building.  Special consideration must be given to all construction and repair to ensure that two remote exits for emergencies are available for employees.

3.12.

All stairways should be kept free of obstructions.  Local fire codes mandate the fire resistance rating of stairwell doors and stairwells.

3.13.

The exit discharge and path must be kept clear of obstructions.

3.14.

Emergency lights must be available to illuminate emergency exit paths.  All emergency lighting must be maintained and tested frequently.

3.15.

All employees must know how to safely evacuate from their work areas during emergencies.  Employees must be aware of alarm signals, primary/secondary exit routes, and assembly areas.