Is it Illegal for Businesses to Block Security Exits in Florida?

At MLG Injury, our Florida personal injury lawyers know that one of the first things our residents see on all types of business doors inside and out is a version of the phrase, “This door must remain unlocked during business hours.”

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has specific requirements for exit doors to maximize employee, guest, and patron safety in case of crises that can occur without notice, including fires, hazardous material events, terrorism, or natural disasters.

Normally, a workplace must have at least two exit routes to permit prompt evacuation of the premise’s occupants during an emergency.

The exact number, however, is dictated by the size of the building, workplace arrangement, and the number of employees and occupants the space holds.

No matter the number required, there are maintenance and safeguard requirements in place to ensure a safe emergency exit by all occupants.

What are the OSHA Exit Standards and Requirements for Florida Businesses?

Our state building codes and OSHA states all Florida businesses must comply with their standards and requirements for clearly marked, unblocked exits which includes ensuring:

• Exit signs are installed and read in plainly legible letters.
• Exit routes are unobstructed by materials, equipment, locked doors, or dead-end corridors.
• Lighting for exit routes is adequate for employees with normal vision.
• Exit route doors are free of decorations or signs that obscure their visibility.
• Safeguards designed to protect employees during an emergency remain in good working order.
• Exit routes are free of explosive or highly flammable furnishings and other decorations.
• Exit routes are not placed in high-hazard areas unless the path is effectively shielded.
• The direction of travel to the nearest exit access is easily indicated and the line-of-sight to an exit sign is always visible.
• Doors or passages along an exit are labeled clearly, including closets or stairwells, so they cannot be mistaken for an exit.
• Exit routes are maintained during construction, repairs, or alterations.

If you have been injured because of an obstructed exit in a Florida business, contact our skilled Florida personal injury lawyers for a free case evaluation today.

Contact Our Florida Personal Injury Lawyers at MLG Injury For a Free Consultation Today

If you have been injured because of dangerous conditions caused by blocked exits, contact our experienced Florida personal injury lawyers at MLG Injury to schedule a free consultation today by calling 888-904-2524.

We will outline your complete injury needs and pursue the negligent party that caused your harm, so you can move forward with your recovery with confidence.