Escape route planning is critical in every type of building, whether it's a workplace, care facility, shop, block of flats, or entertainment venue. Everyone must know how to exit safely in the event of a fire.
- Escape route planning is mandatory for all building types
- Strategies differ for commercial vs. residential settings
- Everyone, including disabled occupants, must be considered
Commercial Premises
If you own or manage a commercial property including shops, offices, hotels, care homes, cinemas, and factories, you must plan, maintain, and rehearse your escape routes to keep staff, customers, and visitors safe.
Escape Planning - key points
- Clearly identify primary and secondary escape routes
- Keep exits and corridors free from obstructions
- Install and maintain emergency lighting and exit signage
- Conduct regular fire drills, covering different occupancy times
Building-Specific Considerations
Care Homes / Hospitals
- A phased or horizontal evacuation strategy and trained staff are essential
- Tailored strategies for vulnerable occupants are required (PEEP)
Cinemas & Theatres
- Guidance of the public by staff is mandatory
- Emergency exits must be lit, clear, and well-marked
Shops, Offices, Factories
- Maintain clear signage and accessible exits
- High-risk zones require dedicated escape planning
Residential Premises
If you manage or are responsible for residential buildings such as flats, HMOs, student housing or supported living you must have a clear, documented and communicated escape strategy tailored to the building type and occupancy.
Residential Escape Planning
- Provide clear, posted escape plans in communal areas and ensure all residents are aware
- Identify both primary and alternative escape routes
- Keep communal spaces clear and fire doors closed
- Use emergency signage for exits and stairwells
Evacuation Strategies
- Stay Put: Occupants remain in fire-resisting flats until assisted
- Simultaneous Evacuation: All evacuate at once when alarm sounds
- Phased Evacuation: Floor-by-floor exit depending on severity
- Horizontal Evacuation: Used in care facilities for gradual safe movement
Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs)
If your building is occupied by anyone with a disability or impairment, you must implement Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) to ensure they can evacuate safely in an emergency.
PEEP Essentials
- Custom plans for individuals with mobility, visual, or hearing challenges
- Include evacuation aids (e.g. chairs), assigned support, and refuge points
- Plans should be practiced and reviewed regularly.
- With each individual's consent, consider placing copies of PEEPs in the SIB
Specific Considerations
- Deaf or hard of hearing: Install visual or vibrating alarms
- Mobility issues: Assign refuge spaces and trained support staff
- Cognitive impairments: Use simple signage and support roles
Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan Policy (gov.uk)