Similarities Between OSHA And NFPA

When comparing the federal and state guidelines/requirements for building evacuations to the NFPA requirements/standards, it is clear to see that both requirements make sure there is a way of escape. Both OSHA and NFPA include in their requirements that having a visible way of knowing where to safely escape to is immensely important when in an emergency. On OSHA.gov it is stated, “the use of floor places or workplace maps which clearly show the emergency escape routes should be included in the emergency action plan” (OSHA.gov). While the basic requirement for NFPA is, “all exits in structures must satisfy the following criteria… (2) all routes to a place of safety must be arranged or clearly marked” (Goetsch, 395). Other similarities between OSHA and NFPA requirements would be escape routes having sufficient light to get out safely, have an outdoor exit discharge that is not blocked in any way, making sure all employees know the emergency plan and what role they play in it by regularly practicing the plan and really understanding it. …show more content…
OSHA gives more broad guidelines and worries mostly on the performance given by employees. Subpart E of OSHA’s code is not intended to cover every situation possible, so it is not very specific in their requirements and guidelines. NFPA has more distinct requirements and standards on what to do in an evacuation, and is more shaped to fit a certain situation. An example would be when setting the requirements for having exit routes covered, OSHA had set only the minimum requirements, while NFPA had set the minimum requirements while also covering more than just exit routes for different