OSHA does not have a general industry standard that requires employers to provide a tornado shelter or severe-weather shelter. However, OSHA’s Emergency Action Plan standard at 29 CFR 1910.38 may apply in certain circumstances, and employers still need to plan for foreseeable emergencies, including severe weather.
Many employers choose to identify severe-weather shelter areas for workers as a best practice. When selecting or evaluating shelter areas, employers may use recognized guidance such as NFPA life safety codes, FEMA P-320, ICC 500, and National Weather Service severe-weather guidance. Local public shelters may also be available, depending on the location and emergency plan.
