Exit Routes & Fire Protection OSHA Standard - Overview

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires most workplaces to plan for common emergencies, as outlined in 29 CFR 1910, Subpart E, and to take steps to protect against fires, as outlined in 29 CFR 1910, Subpart L. These steps include proper exit route design and construction, fire detection and employee alarm systems, and written plans for preventing fires and dealing with emergency situations.

Every workplace must have an alarm system for alerting employees to fires or other emergencies. Employee alarm systems must conform to the standards of 29 CFR 1910.164. Alarm systems are not required when all employees in the workplace can promptly see or smell a fire or other hazard in time to provide adequate warning. However, this exemption is quite rare.

Automatic fire detection systems are only required by OSHA as part of automatic fire extinguishing systems installed at facilities storing and handling the following:

• Flammable liquids
• Explosives
• Liquefied petroleum gas
• Flammable substances, such as petroleum, ethanol, methylated spirit, paint thinners, kerosene, acetone, and diesel

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 29 CFR 1910 sets specific requirements for employers to maintain a safe work environment, including the following:

• Installing fire detection and employee alarm systems
• Maintaining fire detection and employee alarm systems
• Testing fire detection and employee alarm systems

To learn more about Exit Routes and Fire Protection visit our Exit Routes, Emergency Action, Fire Prevention & Protection Online Training web page.