OSHA Fire Safety Regulations

The federal Occupational Safety and Health Act requires employers to provide a reasonably safe working environment for all employees. A key part of workplace safety is planning ahead for dangerous scenarios like tornados, floods, and fires. According to the Act, every business needs to have a system in place for preventing fires and responding adequately if they do happen.

If your employer is not complying with these regulations, you may need the assistance of a Charleston workplace injury attorney. A qualified attorney can help you achieve important changes at your place of work, and potentially win compensation for any losses you have suffered due to an injury. To learn more, contact the Steinberg Law Firm at 843-720-2800.

Workplace Requirements

According to state and federal law, every business needs to:

• Formulate an emergency action plan. If necessary, the plan should include provisions for fresh water and backup power sources, response to medical emergencies, a system for shutting down potentially hazardous machinery, and escape routes.
• Educate employees about evacuation methods. In the event of a fire, every employee needs to know how to exit the building and reach designated safe areas. Of course, the escape routes need to be accessible to all workers regardless of any disabilities they may have.
• Designate fire safety wardens. In most cases these wardens are employees who volunteer for the position. They need to be thoroughly trained in first aid, evacuation plans, and preventing panic among other employees. They are also charged with making sure all evacuated people leave the building safely. The recommended ratio is one warden for every 20 workers.
• Perform regular housekeeping. This means evaluating the workspace for potential fire hazards such as flammable clutter and electrical faults. It also means making sure safety equipment like fire extinguishers, smoke alarms, and sprinklers are in working condition.

If you have been injured in a fire on the job, you should be eligible for compensation for your medical treatment and lost wages. A Charleston workers’ compensation lawyer can tell you more.

Contact Us

The Steinberg Law Firm only hires knowledgeable and dedicated Charleston workers’ compensation attorneys. To discuss what we can do for you, contact us at 843-720-2800.