Council Directive of 30 November 1989 concerning the minimum safety and health requirements for the workplace (first individual directive within the meaning of Article 16 (1) of Directive 89/391/EEC) (89/654/EEC)

4. Emergency routes and exits U.K.

4.1. Emergency routes and exits must remain clear and lead as directly as possible to the open air or to a safe area. U.K.

4.2. In the event of danger, it must be possible for workers to evacuate all workstations quickly and as safely as possible. U.K.

4.3. There must be an adequate number of escape routes and emergency exits. U.K.

4.4. Emergency exit doors must open outwards. U.K.

Sliding or revolving doors are not permitted if they are specifically intended as emergency exits.

Emergency doors should not be so locked or fastened that they cannot be easily and immediately opened by any person who may require to use them in an emergency.

4.5. Specific emergency routes and exits must be indicated by signs in accordance with the national regulations transposing Directive 77/576/EEC into law. U.K.

Such signs must be placed at appropriate points and be made to last.

4.6. Emergency doors must not be locked. U.K.

The emergency routes and exits, and the traffic routes and doors giving access to them, must be free from obstruction so that they can be used at any time without hindrance.

4.7. Emergency routes and exits requiring illumination must be provided with emergency lighting of adequate intensity in case the lighting fails. U.K.