SECTION 9. MEANS OF EGRESS FROM BUILDING

9.1 BACKGROUND

Fire in a building calls for prompt action to evacuate occupants safely. Some other common emergencies requiring prompt evacuation are chemical spills and leaking compressed gas cylinders. Obstruction to passageways can create serious hazards in case of fire, explosion, and loss of light or other emergency situations. Corridors are specifically constructed to retard the spread of fire and to provide a protective envelope to allow people to reach the outside. When flammable materials are stored in corridors this design is defeated.

9.2 MEANS OF EGRESS

Exit areas, corridors, aisles, and passageways must be kept clear at all times with no obstructions that could create a hazard. The proper maintenance of aisles, corridors, and exits is extremely important. The minimum width for an aisle is 36 inches. Some examples of the most common items found in hallways are carts, boxes, laboratory equipment, and furniture.

Exit doors should not be obscured or concealed in any way.

A door designed for fire block purposes must be kept closed and not secured in an open position.

Space under stairs is prohibited from use for any purpose, especially storage, unless they are non-combustible items. Storage of any kind of material in a stairway is prohibited.

Examples for means of egress from APO buildings are available at the end of Section 6, titled “Fire Extinguishers, Alarm Systems, and Procedures.”

In the event of a power outage at night, lights should be restored within one minute. However, all night operations personnel shall carry a flashlight with them at all times.

APPENDIX: Floor Plans