Keeping fire escape routes clear, accessible, and well maintained is vital for safety and a legal requirement.
Businesses must regularly check that corridors, stairways, doors, and exits are free from clutter and in working order, as blockages or faults can cause panic, confusion, or serious harm in an emergency.
This isn’t just about legal compliance — it’s about protecting everyone in the building, including those with mobility or visual impairments, by ensuring safe, swift evacuation through regular checks, clear signage, and well-trained staff.
10-Step Fire Escape Guide for Business Owners
1. Start by assessing the risks in your property
This helps you spot fire hazards, understand who could be at risk, and plan how to reduce danger and protect people.
It’s a legal duty and the foundation of all your fire safety planning.
2. Make sure everyone can get out safely
Your plan must work for everyone — including
- those with mobility issues
- hearing or sight impairments
- visitors unfamiliar with the layout.
Think ahead and build in ways to help those who might need support.
3. Keep escape routes clear
Don’t let anything block your exits — no bins, storage, or locked doors.
Escape routes must always be easy to access and completely free of clutter.
4. Provide enough exits
Make sure there are enough safe ways out for the size and layout of your building.
If one exit is blocked by fire, people need another way to escape.
5. Fit fire doors and check they work
Fire doors slow down fire and smoke so people have more time to escape.
Keep them closed, don’t wedge them open, and make sure they’re regularly inspected.
6. Signpost the way out clearly
Use visible exit signs that stay lit even if the power goes out.
Signs should be easy to spot in smoke and guide people out quickly.
7. Install emergency lighting
If the lights fail during a fire, emergency lighting will help people find their way.
It’s essential for safe evacuation and must be tested regularly.
8. Have a safe place to meet outside
Set a clear assembly point away from the building where everyone can gather after escaping.
Make sure all staff know where it is.
9. Train your staff
Everyone should know how to raise the alarm, where the exits are, and what to do if there's a fire.
Regular fire safety training is a must.
10. Practice your escape plan
Run fire drills regularly so people know what to do and where to go. Use the results to improve your plan and fix any issues.
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