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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 create 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

If you’re managing a larger or high-risk business (e.g., with flammable materials, complex layouts, or many visitors), consider consulting a fire safety professional or your local fire service for additional guidance.