- Standard Number:1910.36(b)(8)
OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.
August 9, 1976
Mr. Robert C. Harris
Manager of Personnel
Beloit Corporation
Paper Machinery Div.
Beloit, Wisconsin 53511
In re: Your letter dated July 30, 1976,
Means of Egress 1910.36
Dear Mr. Harris:
Your letter to Milwaukee Area Director Robert Hanna has been referred to this office for response.
Your letter asks if a locker - washroom in your plant requires more than one means of egress. OSHA standard 1910.36(b)(8) reads as follows:
"Every building or structure, section, or area thereof of such size, occupancy, and arrangement that the reasonable safety of numbers of occupants may be endangered by the blocking of any single means of egress due to fire or smoke, shall have at least two means of egress remote from each other, so arranged as to minimize any possibility that both may be blocked by any one fire or other emergency conditions."
This paragraph does not automatically require at least two means of egress; a second (or more) means of egress would be required if the area were occupied by a large number of employees, or if hazardous processes were being carried out, or for similar reasons.
We suggest you ascertain if local building codes require additional means of egress.
Please contact us if we can be of further assistance.
Very truly yours,
EDWARD J. LARGENT
Assistant Regional Administrator
for Technical Support