How to write a fire evacuation plan for a small business
By Joe Cooper · · 3 min read
An evacuation plan says what everyone does if there is a fire. For a small business it can fit on one page, as long as everyone knows it.
What to include
- How the alarm is raised and what it sounds like.
- Who calls 999 and what they say.
- The escape routes and exits, with a floor plan if you have one.
- The assembly point and who takes the roll call.
- Who helps anyone who needs assistance.
- What staff should not do, such as use lifts or go back for belongings.
Plan for the people who are there
Consider staff, visitors, contractors, lone workers and anyone who would struggle to leave quickly. Agree a personal emergency evacuation plan for anyone who needs one.
Share and test it
- Brief new staff when they start.
- Display the plan near exits.
- Run a drill at least once a year and record it.
- Update the plan when the layout or staffing changes.
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General information based on GOV.UK guidance and common practice. It is not legal advice or a fire risk assessment. Your own fire risk assessment sets what applies to your premises. Sources: GOV.UK, Fire safety in the workplace.