OSHA requires employers to provide clearly marked permanent exit routes and adequate exits for employees to leave safely in an emergency. Let's take a high-level look at the requirements.
Each exit must be marked by a sign that reads EXIT. The line-of-sight to the exit sign must be clearly visible at all times and the exit signs must be properly illuminated. Each exit door must be free of decorations or other signs that obscure it's visibility. Any doorway or passage that might be mistaken for an exit must be marked "Not an exit" or with an indication of its actual use, such as store room.
Exit routes must be kept clear and they must have adequate lighting. The route can't lead employees toward a dead end or through a room that can be locked. Exit routes must be free of highly flammable furnishings or decorations. The exit route must not require the worker to pass through areas or unshielded materials that burn very quickly, emit poisonous fumes, or are explosive.
Signs must be posted along the exit route to indicate the direction of travel to the nearest exit.
Exit doors must be able to be readily opened without have to use keys, tools, or special knobs. They cannot have any alarm or device the restricts emergency use if the device fails.
Exit discharges must lead directly to outside, to a street, walkway, or to an open space with access to the outside. The area beyond the exit has to have enough room to accommodate the people who are likely to use the exit.
And finally, employees should be familiar with at least two exits from their workplace and keep all exits and exit routes free from obstructions.
