Firefighter Health and Safety Practice

Which OSHA regulation is commonly known as the "two in, two out" rule?

1. OSHA 1910.156

2. OSHA 1910.134

3. OSHA 1910.151

4. OSHA 1910.120

The correct answer is: OSHA 1910.134

The regulation commonly known as the "two in, two out" rule is OSHA 1910.134, which pertains to respiratory protection. This rule is specifically designed to enhance safety during firefighting operations. It requires that there are always at least two firefighters inside an IDLH (Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health) environment while at least two other firefighters remain outside, ready to assist in the event of an emergency. This framework helps ensure accountability and provides a rapid response capability should unforeseen events occur while personnel are engaged in firefighting activities. The focus of this rule is to maximize safety for firefighters working in hazardous situations, thereby emphasizing the importance of teamwork and mutual support in high-risk environments. This requirement reflects a fundamental approach to ensuring the safety of emergency responders, adhering to the principle that one team should always be prepared to assist or rescue another team if needed. Other regulations mentioned, while important to various aspects of health and safety, do not encompass this specific safety operational framework associated with the multiple personnel required during certain firefighting scenarios.