If a primary egress route is blocked, what is the proper action?

• A. Proceed via the nearest alternate path without reporting.
• B. Return to your workstation and wait.
• C. Report to supervision and follow approved alternate routes.
• D. Attempt to clear the blockage yourself.

Answer: (C)

When a primary egress route is blocked, you must report the situation to supervision and use the approved alternate routes. This keeps the evacuation coordinated, ensures someone in charge assesses the blockage, and that you’re following routes that have been evaluated for safety and blast risk.

Reporting allows the supervisor to determine the best course of action, confirm that the alternate paths are safe, and communicate the situation to others so everyone exits in an orderly, accounted-for way. It also helps maintain control of the environment—power, alarms, access points, and potential hazards can be managed appropriately.

Avoid improvising by taking an alternate path without reporting, returning to your workstation to wait, or trying to clear the blockage yourself. Bypassing the reporting chain can lead to uncoordinated egress, delays, or exposing you to additional hazards. Clearing the blockage without authorization can cause injuries or worsen the situation and may compromise the safety of others.