Proposed paragraph (i) provides requirements to ensure that Workplace Emergency Response Employers (WEREs) facilities are safe for team members. Paragraph (i)(1)(i) of the proposed rule would require WEREs to ensure their facilities comply with 29 CFR 1910 Subpart E, Exit Routes and Emergency Planning. This proposed provision is not a new requirement because WEREs are already required to comply with Subpart E. It is included here to reinforce the concept that compliant means of egress, emergency lighting, exit marking, etc., are of the utmost importance during emergency situations for all workers, but especially for team members because they spend more time in dangerous situations.
For instance, an obstructed aisle or hallway could interfere with removing a sick or injured non-team-member employee by means of a wheelchair or ambulance cot. That same obstructed aisle or hallway could delay firefighting team members in reaching a fire, thus allowing the fire to grow, further endangering the team members, or blocking their escape path if they need to evacuate due to deteriorating conditions.
Many responders spend a significant amount of time in the workplace, often sleeping and eating meals there because they are required to be at the ESO facility to
respond to emergency incidents quickly. While responders expect to encounter hazards at an emergency incident, they may also become injured or ill from hazards they are exposed to in ESO facilities. Proposed paragraph (j) provides requirements to ensure that ESO facilities are safe for responders.
The proposed Facility Preparedness requirements for WEREs and Emergency Service Organizations (ESOs) include: