All businesses must have plans in place for emergencies, such as the outbreak of fire. A key part of this preparation is coming up with fire escape plans, with the aim of getting everyone safely out of the building as quickly as possible.
In your workplace fire escape plan, you will need to choose not one but several possible escape routes. This is just in case one route is blocked, either by fire or another obstruction. Here are a few tips to help you plan your workplace fire escape routes:
• Remember that in the event of a fire, you will not be able to use the lifts, so you can’t include these in your escape plan
• Signage is crucial in ensuring that everyone knows where the fire escape routes are, especially if one is blocked and another route is needed in a hurry
• Plans will need to be made for people with disabilities and other special needs. A designated person who has had fire marshal training may be given the responsibility for looking after these staff members in an emergency
• The routes you choose should be the quickest and the easiest ways out of the building
• Practice the routes with all staff members in regular fire drills to ensure everyone knows where to go and what to do if a fire breaks out – you can also time these drills to improve the speed of the evacuation.