Amity Insurance advices fire exit safety plan

By: Amity
 
QUINCY, Mass. - Sept. 29, 2014 - PRLog -- Having a fire exit plan, with specified exit routes in place, is an imperative for businesses of all sizes, according to Amity Insurance Agency, Inc., the region's leading full service agency.

The sad fact of the matter is that many people have no idea how they would escape their workplace if an emergency arose and are even unaware of where exits are located.

A fire exit safety plan is only as good as its exit routes – the definition of which is an unobstructed and continuing path that will lead to safety.  There are three components to an exit route; the part of the route that leads to an exit, the part that provides protected travel and the discharge point that leads to a sidewalk or similar protected area.

The rule of thumb for most workplaces is a minimum of two exit routes to enable swift evacuation, although one route may be sufficient for very small buildings.  The larger the place of business is, the greater the need will be for additional exit routes.  The exit routes must be spaced apart properly in case one is blocked by smoke or fire.

Every exit route must be a permanent part of the workplace with discharge points leading to streets, public ways, walkways or other similar refuge areas.  Moreover, the discharge areas should be large enough to accommodate the full capacity of occupants in the building.  Exit doors must be unlocked from the inside.  Exit route access should be 28 inches wide and ceilings at least seven feet and six inches high and must be clear of objects that could hinder escape.

All exits must have fire-resistant materials separating them; for instance if the exits connect three or fewer levels, they must have one-hour fire resistance ratings.  For three or more levels, materials must have two-hour fire resistance ratings.

Flammable or explosive items should never be stored in exit routes and equipment or locked doors must not block exits.  Lighting must be provided along exit route pathways with signs posted along the route to direct people to safety.  Exit signs should be clearly visible.

Employers should train designated employees how to help execute a safety evacuation plan.

To learn more about requirements for emergency plans, contact your insurance agent.

About Amity Insurance

Amity Insurance Agency, Inc. is a full-service agency dedicated to meeting your business, professional and personal insurance needs.

Amity Insurance is licensed in most states. The agency maintains headquarters at 500 Victory Road, North Quincy02171.  For information on products or services, please visit www.amityinsurance.com or call (800) 940-4010 to schedule a free analysis of insurance needs.
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Source:Amity
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Tags:Fire Safety, Boston area insurance, South Shore Insurance, Homeowner S Insurance, Restaurant Insurance
Industry:Insurance
Location:Quincy - Massachusetts - United States
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