Reducing the Risk of Fire on Your Farm - Ontario Ministry of ...

REDUCING THE RISK OF FIRE ON YOUR FARM<strong>Fire</strong> exit signagePost permanent signs beside all fire exits in <strong>the</strong> building/compartment. Rooms connecting into commonhallways should post signs in <strong>the</strong> hallway in front <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> doorway, indicating <strong>the</strong> direction to an exit. If usingelectrical signs, ensure <strong>the</strong>se signs have a battery backup system to remain lit in <strong>the</strong> event <strong>of</strong> a power outage.Figure 4.10 shows a properly marked exit.Figure 4.10. An exit at <strong>the</strong> end <strong>of</strong> this alleyway is clearly identified.Alternative exits (removable panels/windows)Clearly mark <strong>the</strong>se panels and test <strong>the</strong>m periodically to ensure <strong>the</strong>y are operational. The panels must openwithout <strong>the</strong> use <strong>of</strong> tools. Attach handles for ease <strong>of</strong> manipulating <strong>the</strong> panels. Inform staff using <strong>the</strong> facilitythat <strong>the</strong>se are available as emergency exits.Mechanical/electrical room exitThese rooms should have a direct exit to <strong>the</strong> outside. When a direct exit to <strong>the</strong> outside is not possible, considera pass-through exit (through ano<strong>the</strong>r room). In <strong>the</strong>se cases, ensure employees determine <strong>the</strong> fire location beforeentering <strong>the</strong> room, in order to get to <strong>the</strong> exit.ObstructionsMake every effort to keep exit paths and exit doors clear <strong>of</strong> obstructions from equipment, machinery, feed andsimilar items. A daily walk through <strong>the</strong> building will ensure exits and exit paths are unobstructed.40