A hazardous substance is any substance that has one or more inherent hazardous property. This includes flammability, explosiveness, toxicity, and the ability to oxidise.
An Emergency Evacuation or Exit Route (or Means of Egress) is a continuous and unobstructed path of exit travel from any point within a building to a place of safety
Every exit is to be clearly visible or the route to reach every exit shall be clearly indicated
Each means of egress is to be marked so that the way to a place of safety is clearly indicated
The number of evacuation routes will depend on the occupant load
All components of a means of egress should be maintained, inspected and repaired to ensure they serve their intended purpose during emergencies
Daily inspections of doors, corridors and stairs should be performed to ensure they are not obstructed or blocked
Why is it important to keep evacuation routes and exits unobstructed?
Fire can spread very quickly, so it is important that when a fire breaks out that occupants can evacuate the building as quickly as possible.
If the route out of the building is blocked or even just partially blocked, it can prolong evacuation times as occupants may need to move things out of the way or avoid objects.
It may also lead to accidents such as trips and falls as occupants try to leave the building.
Keeping evacuation routes and exits unobstructed
Keeping all fire doors and evacuation routes free from obstruction and clutter, especially in corridors and common areas is a high priority
If you observe a blocked fire exit or obstructed fire route you should inform Management immediately
To enable a quick escape, emergency exits provide additional ways to escape the building in case of a fire or other catastrophe
The escape route should lead to a place of safety, normally outside and away from the building
It is important that merchandise, furniture, or other items never block emergency doors
Doors on escape routes must always be available for use without the use of a key
During evacuations many occupants would try to leave the building at once which could result in occupant build-up slowing down the evacuation
It is therefore important to ensure exit routes are available and unobstructed, ensuring occupants leave quickly, greatly decreasing the risk of injury or death
Emergency exits can also be used when the main exit is blocked during a fire or disaster providing an alternative escape route
An emergency is defined as any event which "threatens workers, customers, or the public; disrupts or shuts down operations; or causes physical or environmental damage".
An emergency poses an immediate risk of significant harm to health, life, property or the environment. Preparing for emergencies is an important part of any health and safety programme.
