Fire Safety & Evacuation Readiness

As summer begins, ensure fire protection systems and emergency plans are fully operational. 

Friendly reminders: • Inspect extinguishers, alarms, and emergency lighting • Conduct evacuation drills and route reviews • Update emergency contact lists and continuity plans Supervisors should walk evacuation routes with staff to confirm familiarity.

Safety Tip

Verify that extinguishers are unobstructed and have current inspection tags.

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Federal

• OSHA Fire Safety & Emergency Action Plans (29 CFR 1910.38 & 1910.39) Guidance — Reinforces requirements for evacuation plans, alarm systems, designated routes, and employee training.           Source: OSHA Emergency Preparedness and Response
• Department of Homeland Security: Disasters and Emergencies: Make A Plan Source: Ready.gov

California

• California Office of Emergency Services: Source: Disaster Preparedness for Business

San Francisco

• SF Fire Department – Fire & Life Safety Inspection Requirements — Details annual inspection expectations, extinguisher maintenance, alarm testing, and evacuation drills. Sources: Inspections and Safety Resources and Information 

San Jose

• City of San Jose – Fire Code Policies

Purpose: The plan aims to mitigate workplace violence risks and ensure employee safety.

Components: The plan should include risk assessments, training programs, reporting procedures, and measures for addressing violent incidents.

Training: Employees should receive training on recognizing and responding to potential violence, conflict resolution, and de-escalation techniques.

Reporting: Procedures for reporting incidents or threats of violence should be clearly outlined, with confidentiality and non-retaliation protections for reporting employees.

Review and Update: Regular review and update of the plan to reflect changing circumstances or new risks are necessary.

Reminder: this summary is not exhaustive, and employers should refer to the specific requirements outlined in the legislation here:

https://www.dir.ca.gov/dosh/Workplace-Violence/General-Industry.html

Did you know SF has new LiB requirements that came into effect on January 29, 2024.*

The requirements apply to facilities storing or handling lithium  batteries in various capacities including encased in Powered Mobility Devices

An excerpt of key topics covered is shown below:

• Storage and Handling
• Battery Charging Areas
• Inspections
• Damaged Batteries and Recycling 
• Incident Reporting

Reminder: This summary is not exhaustive and employers should refer directly to the specific requirements provided in the document provided by the San Francisco Fire Department for guidance here:

https://sf-fire.org/media/2956/download?inline