Does OSHA mandate placement of fire alarm pull boxes, such as every 200 feet or within 5 feet of an exit door?

OSHA makes reference to the location of alarm pull stations in Appendix A to Subpart L (Fire Protection) under Employee Alarm Systems. There is no specific OSHA requirement to have pulls 200 feet apart. OSHA indicates, “The alarm box stations should be available within a travel distance of 200 feet.” There is no mention of having an extinguisher five feet from an exit door.

The Life Safety Code, NFPA 101, somewhat mirrors OSHA in the 200 foot requirement. The Life Safety Code indicates that no one should have to travel more than 200 feet horizontal distance on the same floor to reach an alarm box. NFPA also indicates that alarm boxes need to be in the “exit access path near each required exit” or within five feet of an exit door.

Local fire codes are a good source for what requirements apply in a given location, as they should reflect the requirements of OSHA and possibly NFPA.

Please keep in mind that OSHA did not incorporate NFPA’s Life Safety Code directly. If a company follows the 2009 edition, however, OSHA will consider that company to be in compliance per 1910.34, 1910.36, and 1910.37.