Final answer:
The claim that fire exits need at least 24 inches of clearance on either side is false; regulations typically require more clearance, such as OSHA's minimum of 28 inches. Proper clearance and unobstructed exits are critical for safe evacuations.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that fire exits need to have at least 24 inches of clearance on either side is False. Regulations typically require more clearance for fire exits to ensure safe and efficient evacuation during an emergency. For example, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in the United States requires that fire exit routes be at least 28 inches wide at all points. Moreover, the fire exits and routes must be free of obstructions and adequately marked and maintained.
In light of tragic events like the historical incident where workers died in a fire due to inadequate evacuation routes, modern safety standards are put in place to prevent such occurrences. Locked stairwell doors and collapsed fire escapes in the past have led to critical safety improvements. Thus, ensuring adequate clearance and maintaining unobstructed fire exits are essential components of fire safety in the workplace.