How to Layout for Fire Egress Exits in the Office

Planning for a fire egress in an office building is an important aspect of the overall safety plan for the building. An egress, or an exit, should be clearly marked, and must meet fire codes. OSHA has regulations in place for workplace fire egresses, and local and state regulations will also be in place. 

Step 1 - Get Copies Regulations

Depending on the type of building, the location, and the locality, the regulations will vary. OSHA will require exits are located strategically through out the building, and never more than a certain number of feet apart from each other. They need to be accessible to everyone in the building. The local regulations will also dictate how many egresses are necessary, where they should be, and the signage required. Once you have the regulations, you can start to map out where the exits need to be.

Step 2 - Map it Out

Compare the regulations to the blueprints. Figure out where all of the egresses should be placed. If there are obstacles, find another way to lay out the exits so that they will comply with all regulations. This may take you a few tries to get all of the requirements mapped out.

Step 3 - Prepare Windows

Windows can be used as egresses, and many codes require that they be accessible to exit if needed. Any window that needs to be used as an egress should have panes that are able to be popped out easily, and a ladder that can be used to get to level ground. This can be a ladder that is permanently attached, or a drop down or pull up ladder. 

Step 4 - Prepare Signs

Fire egresses and exits need to be clearly marked. Overhead illuminated signs over fire exits are required in most cities. Some places require the signs be written in both English and Spanish, and others require pictures to make them easy to identify. Signs placed directly on doors that are fire doors will also be required. 

Step 5 - Maps

Maps of fire exits need to be framed and placed through out the office. You may only need a few maps, but some regulations state that a map must be found in every hallway, elevator, stairwell, and even restrooms. Make several copies of the map, and use a red marker to mark the area the map is found. This will allow everyone in the office to quickly identify where they are, and the fastest egress to safety.

Step 6 - Remove Obstacles

File cabinets, desks, hutches, machinery, and other items need to be removed from the path of the exits. It's not a bad idea to mark off the area with masking tape or duct tape to denote that nothing can be placed there. If the office is inspected by the fire marshal, and there are items blocking the egresses, fines can be assessed. Worse, if a fire breaks out these obstacles can prevent people from exiting to safety.