Evacuation Plans & Why You Need One

Creating an evacuation plan for your business is a crucial part of your fire safety strategy and is required under UK law (specifically, the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005). A well-structured plan ensures the safety of employees, visitors, and anyone else on your premises in the event of an emergency like a fire, gas leak, or other hazards.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you with what is required for an effective evacuation plan:

 1. Conduct a Fire Risk Assessment

• Identify potential fire hazards (e.g., flammable materials, electrical faults).
• Identify people at risk (e.g., lone workers, visitors, those with disabilities).
• Evaluate existing fire safety measures.
• Record findings and take action.
• Review regularly or when circumstances change.

According to UK government data, fire and rescue services attended over 150,000 fires in 2023—many involving commercial premises.

 2. Define Evacuation Routes and Exits

• Mark primary and secondary escape routes.
• Ensure routes are clearly signposted, well-lit, and unobstructed.
• Provide maps/floor plans for larger premises.

 Tip: Routes should not rely on lifts or escalators. Use stairs and fire exits.

 3. Assign Roles and Responsibilities

Designate key personnel such as:

• Fire Wardens/Marshals: Guide people out and check designated areas.
• First Aiders
• Assembly Point Coordinators: Take roll calls and liaise with emergency services.

Training is essential for everyone involved in these roles.

 4. Install Fire Detection and Warning Systems

Ensure you have:

• Working fire alarms
• Smoke detectors
• Visual/auditory alarms (for hearing-impaired staff)

Regular maintenance and testing are legally required.

 5. Designate Assembly Points

• Choose a safe location away from the building.
• Ensure it’s accessible for all and clearly communicated.
• Avoid areas that could become congested or hazardous.

 6. Plan for People with Disabilities

Include:

• Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) for those needing assistance.
• Evacuation chairs or ramps if necessary.

 7. Communicate and Train

• Make your evacuation plan part of employee induction.
• Hold regular drills (at least annually, ideally twice a year).
• Display evacuation maps and instructions in common areas.

 8. Keep Documentation and Review

• Store a written version of your plan in both hard and digital formats.
• Update it after:
  • Layout changes
  • Staff changes
  • New fire safety findings

 What Should Be in Your Written Evacuation Plan?

• Floor plan with escape routes and exits
• Location of fire alarms, extinguishers, and first aid kits
• Contact details for responsible persons
• Evacuation roles
• Assembly point location
• Instructions for calling emergency services