What are the fire exit requirements for a primary school? The current emergency exit door in one of our classrooms is faulty. It has been permanently closed and disabled. The expectation in an emergency is for students to exit their classroom and use the exit door in another class. Teachers are understandably anxious about this situation. Does this comply with regulation on emergency exits?
It is clear that not being able to use an emergency exit door presents both physical and psychological health and safety hazards to the staff and to students. This is a matter that your employer should be consulting on with the employees and their HSR.
Section 26 of the OHS Act tells us that a person who has control of a workplace must ensure so far as is reasonably practicable that the workplace and the means of entering and leaving it are safe and without risks to health.
Our Fire Escapes - what are the rules? - OHS Reps page can help you with information about the specific requirements.
Also, check out WorkSafe Victoria’s Compliance code: Workplace facilities and the working environment for more evidence of the emergency exit requirements – specifically, “Employers need to ensure that emergency exits in buildings comply with the National Construction Code.”
A quick look at the Building Regulations here in Victoria also shows that such exits are required to be “kept readily accessible, functional and clear of obstructions” – this is useful information for consultation with your school management.
You or your HSR may find this Checklist for School Working Environments - OHS Reps useful as well as our information on employee representation and consultation Getting OHS Representation Right - A Guide for Workers
We strongly encourage you to contact your relevant education union, IEU or AEU, for advice on this issue and others, and for expert assistance in navigating the Department of Education policies and procedures.
Read more: WorkSafe Victoria - OHS in Schools