evacuation maps

What are Fire Evacuation Maps?

An Evacuation Map is a simplified building schematic that guides people away from a potential threat or hazardous area. Evacuation Maps show details such as rooms, doors, exits, hallways, stairwells, and more. Evacuation maps will also show “You are here” locations and safe egress routes. Safety equipment may also be included on these maps. These are important for the safety of employees and customers. Evacuation maps give clear instructions in case of an emergency that would require an evacuation. These can also be used when conducting drills to ensure everyone uses the safest exit route. Preparation for an emergency is ensuring safety.

Are They Required?

In municipalities across the country, evacuation maps are required to meet building codes. Evacuation documentation that is inaccurate or outdated is a liability to your business or organization. These maps can also serve as a training tool that would show you what to do in certain emergencies like severe weather, emergency telephone locations, first aid kits, and any other important security information. Evacuation maps will ensure the safety of everyone that enters a building.

Employer Responsibilities

Having an evacuation plan in place is a great start to prepare for sudden and disastrous events. An evacuation plan will also provide employees with the best possible tools for getting out of the building safely in a calm and organized manner. Being prepared for a situation is especially important because it will help prevent disorganization and panic.

Employers must:

Arrange an Evacuation Warden with the means of accounting for employees after evacuation and assisting people with disabilities or who do not speak English.
Establish emergency evacuation routes and assembly areas.
Create Evacuation Maps
Display visual communication such as signs, labels, and floor tape to mark pathways and emergency equipment in the event of an evacuation.
An emergency plan must be in writing and kept in easy access to employees for review.

It would be proactive to create and have an emergency evacuation plan. OSHA can cite businesses that do not have one in place. Emergency evacuation plans are required by law and function as a safeguard against preventable accidents that can end up costing the company even more money in legal fees. In addition to evacuation maps, procedures to evacuate should be reviewed in-depth during the training of all employees. Evacuation Maps are another protective tool to use during a desperate time.

evacuation maps

What are Fire Evacuation Maps?

Are They Required?

MAP SAMPLES

Design Criteria

Placement

Employer Responsibilities