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We looked at the problem of locked and blocked exits in retail and warehouse environments yesterday; today, we’ll look at two more problem areas that are frequently cited by OSHA in these workplaces: electrical panel boxes and fire extinguishers.
Electrical Panel Boxes
In a retail or warehouse environment, merchandise or packaging in the wrong place is a persistent problem. Sometimes, it’s obstructing exit routes and doors; other times, it’s obstructing access to electrical panel boxes. Storing material in this area creates fire, shock, and arc blast hazards.
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You must maintain a minimum of 36 inches of clear space in front of electrical panel boxes at all times; higher voltage panel boxes require more space. The required clear space in front of a panel box should be clearly marked. If electrical equipment is in its own room, the room itself must not be used for storage. Also, nothing should ever be placed on top of a panel box.
Fire Extinguishers
Two problems crop up frequently with fire extinguishers: blocked access and failure to properly mount fire extinguishers.
- Blocked access. As with exit routes, workers must have clear access to fire extinguishers. Don’t stack or store materials where they obstruct this access.
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- Improperly mounted extinguishers. A fire extinguisher is a pressurized cylinder; you can’t just sit it on the floor under its sign. For safety and access, fire extinguishers must be mounted properly on the wall, not left on the floor.
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