MEANS OF EGRESS

Evolution of the Code

The entire Subpart E of the OSHA standard is promulgated from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 101-1970, "Life Safety Code." This is prepared, maintained, and published by the NFPA, headquartered in Quincy, Massachusetts.

The Life Safety Code, formerly the Building Exits Code, originated from work performed by the Committee on Safety to Life, The NFPA, in 1913. At first, the committee devoted its attention to a study of the notable fires involving loss of life. That led to the preparation of standards for the construction of stairways and fire escapes, for fire drills in various occupancies, and for the construction and arrangement of exit facilities for factories, schools, etc. These form the basis of the present code.

In 1921, the committee was enlarged to provide a comprehensive guide to exits and related features of life safety from fire in all classes of occupancy.