The depths of the life safety code are mind-boggling; many of them are straightforward and in some cases common sense. But unless you deal with the industry and codes on a regular basis, there are some issues you probably wouldn’t consider as code infractions.
Generally, store and facility managers mean well and have no idea their actions are a code violation. Unfortunately, ignorance wouldn’t get you out of a hefty fine if an inspection were to take place. These are a few of the most common life safety violations we have come across in the field:
Life Safety Considerations: Locked [or Blocked] Exit Doors
I can’t count the number of times I’ve seen exit doors locked (or blocked) in retail stores and restaurants. I think being in this industry does that to you; you’re out with your spouse or family, and realize you’re looking at closers, locks and hardware. On more than one occasion, I’ve gone on a tangent because I see an exit door littered with boxes, or a sign that says “do not use this door” or something similar.
It’s imperative to remember that if there’s an exit sign above the door, it MUST be operational and code compliant. No excuses. In the event of an emergency people will flock to that glowing red sign. Which means when they make it there, they better be able to get out. Fast. Whether it’s an employee in the storage room or a patron close to the back of the store, the nearest exit should ALWAYS be free of blockage, debris, and engaged locks.
Life Safety Considerations: Multiple Means of Egress
Life safety code states that exit doors should require only ONE action to open the door. This requirement applies to back doors, restroom doors, side doors, delivery doors, emergency doors, etc. They should be easily opened using the panic bar (when required), or other exit hardware. This means there should be no deadbolt, no chain lock or any other makeshift security device, and no special knowledge should be required to operate the locking hardware.
If there is an issue with the door it needs to be fixed, and just so it’s clear, a hand written note on the door doesn’t deem the door adequately repaired.
Life Safety Considerations: Poorly Displayed Fire Rating Labels
Painted over, incorrect or missing fire rating labels are consistently one of the most frequent life safety code violations we see. Upon completion of any service work or renovation, fire labels should be inspected for proper display and easy location of the label.
Do any of your exit doors look like the one pictured? Even if it’s in a room not often traveled; it must be easily accessible. As the old adage says “the devil is in the details” so don’t get dinged for life safety by something that’s easily remedied with an afternoon of simple maintenance.