Obstructed emergency exits, fire extinguishers, and electrical panels
Can you spot the electrical panels?
Obstructing emergency exits, fire extinguishers, and electrical panels can greatly increase the severity of a fire. Stored materials should never be kept in front of extinguishers or exits.
Materials stored in front of the electrical panel can cause fire and/or delay access to the equipment in the event of an emergency.
Items stored in an emergency exit reduce the width of the means of egress, meaning that people will not be able to safely and quickly exit during an emergency.
Below are the top 5 avoidable housekeeping hazards identified at the University of Alberta in 2018. Keep your work space safe by identifying and addressing these common hazards - click the links to learn more about each.
Hidden Hazards
- Use of extension cords/power bars for permanent equipment
- Unrestrained gas cylinders
- Wedged-open fire doors
- Obstructed emergency exits, fire extinguishers, and electrical panels
- Obstructed emergency showers or eye wash stations