Fire doors and escape routes are vital and legally required in any workplace. Many fire doors, though, are not up to current standards and ensuring that they are not only keeps you on the safe side of the law, but also protects everyone who works in or visits the building. Let us help you make sure you are up-to-date and safe in an emergency. The fire door and exit route code is complex and necessary. These are just a few of the many rules to keep in mind:
Exit Routes
- Most workplaces need two exit routes for evacuation.
- Depending on the number of employees, the size of the building, and the layout of the workplace, more may be needed.
- Exit routes must be as far away from one another as possible, in case one is blocked by fire or smoke.
Exit Requirements
- Exits must be separated from the workplace by an appropriately rated fire-resistant material.
- Openings must be secured by a self-closing fire door that remains closed or automatically closes in an emergency.
- Line-of-sight to exit signs must always be clear.
Required Safety Features
- Keep exit routes free of highly flammable furnishings and decorations.
- Exit routes must be free and unobstructed by any materials, locked doors, or dead-ends.
- Doors along the route that might be mistaken for exit access must be marked “Not an Exit” or as its use, such as “Closet”.
Design Requirements
- Exit route doors must unlock from the inside and be side-hinged to swing out in the direction people are traveling to exit.
- Exit route ceilings must be at least 7 feet, 6 inches high.
- Exit areas must lead directly outside or to an open space with access to the outside.
These are just a few of the many requirements that OHSA and NFPA have set in place. It is estimated that 90% of fire doors and exit routes are not in full compliance – for some clear and some not so obvious reasons, such as missing fire door labels, fire doors blocked open, poor clearance dimensions, or broken hardware.
Fire inspections are supposed to be done annually and can often take small businesses by surprise. Overhead Door Company of Portland will test and maintain your equipment to ensure that your company passes with flying colors. Our experienced technicians will repair fire doors to specifications, install new fire doors, and install all fire door equipment. They are Certified to repair and test your Fire Door in order to provide your company with your annual Fire Martial certification.
So, contact us, let us help to ensure your safety and never worry about that call from the Fire Marshall again!
