Basic H&S Guidelines

Section 2 – Architectural Considerations

The quality of factory buildings has a major impact on the safety and productivity of workers in the
work environment. As these buildings are planned, constructed or renovated, physical stability,
structural load capacity, fire prevention and general safety issues must be taken into consideration
and should comply with applicable health and safety requirements. The principal concern in
assessing the architecture of a factory is the risk of structural overload and collapse. However,
more common safety hazards such as obstructed or insufficient exits, corridors, aisles and
emergency egress routes may also increase the likelihood of loss of life during an emergency.

2.1 Guidelines on Structural Components of Factory Buildings

• The complete building should be • Elevators

maintained in good condition.
• Roofs, ceilings and mezzanines:
o The load capacity for upper floors
must be sufficient for any machinery
or equipment that will be installed.
o Load-bearing walls, pillars and
ceilings should be inspected
regularly.
• Storage racks should have adequate
strength to support the anticipated
loads.
• Stairways:
o Handrails are required if there are
more than 4 steps (>1 metre rise).
o The vertical distance between steps
should be < 0.19 metre.
o The surface of steps should be even
and slip-resistant.
• Exposed overhead working surfaces
should be protected by adequate guard
rails and toeboards.
• Floor openings and holes should be
protected by covers and/or suitable
barriers.
o The load capacity should be posted
in the elevator.
o Elevators should have doors, and the
doors should be equipped with
interlock devices that prevent the
door from opening unless the
elevator is present.
o Elevators should be wired to be
inoperable when the doors are open.
o Each elevator should have a sign
indicating if it is intended for
passenger or freight use.
o Warning signs regarding the use of
elevators during emergencies
should be posted just outside the
elevator door at each level.

2.2 Fire and Safety Issues Related to Building Construction

It is essential that all workers can quickly and easily evacuate their work areas and exit the
building in the event of an emergency. Building construction, and the arrangement of equipment,
utilities, furniture, etc. within the building spaces, must be strictly in accordance with fire codes
and meet health and safety regulations and guidelines. The number and size of stairways and exits
must be adequate for the occupancy load of the various sections of a factory building.

Social & Environmental Affairs Page 9 of 127 Feburary 2010