The evacuation plan and signage
Good preparation can save lives.
There are a lot of obligations regarding fire prevention in workplaces. The fire-fighting service, fire prevention file and also evacuation plans are some examples of measures that contribute to a safer workplace.
In this blog, we elaborate on evacuation plans and associated signage.
Prevention measures
Table of contents
An evacuation plan is part of the wider framework of prevention measures. It serves to limit damage and risks to employees and visitors in the event of a fire or other emergency. Emergencies come unexpectedly and their course is unpredictable. It is therefore essential to be well prepared.
Before drawing up an evacuation plan, companies should thoroughly analyse the risks of fire and other emergencies. This can be done, for example, through a risk analysis that identifies potential flashpoints, escape routes and risks such as hazardous substances. Measures such as replacing flammable substances with less hazardous alternatives or limiting the amount of flammable materials stored reduce risks or limit potential damage.
Nevertheless, there will always be a residual risk. After all, fire safety is not only about prevention, but also about responding quickly and efficiently to an emergency. If an emergency occurs, employees and visitors must be able to evacuate quickly and efficiently. That is why an evacuation plan and proper signage are compulsory for every employer and can be life-saving.
Drawing up evacuation plans
An evacuation plan must be carefully drawn up in consultation with the internal prevention adviser and is also submitted to the Committee for Prevention and Protection at Work for revision and consultation.
The basis for the plans are the floor plans of the building. At least the following should be indicated on them:
- Fire alarms: to raise the alarm quickly
- Fire extinguishers and reels: to fight an incipient fire
- Gathering place: where workers gather after evacuation
- Fire compartmentation: fire-resistant walls and doors that slow down the spread of a fire
- Premises with increased fire risk: areas with heavy fire load or hazardous substances that the fire brigade needs to be aware of
- Emergency exits and evacuation routes: to quickly show persons in distress the safest way to go
- Valves/switches of the facilities (gas, electricity, water): so that the facilities can be quickly switched off by the fire brigade
It is also important that an evacuation plan be drawn up and posted for each floor. This plan should be clearly visible, for example at the entrance to the building and at strategic points per floor. In an actual evacuation, every second can make the difference, so a clear and detailed floor plan is indispensable.
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Signage
Besides the evacuation plan, good signage is an important part of a safe evacuation. Without clear and distinct signs, panic can set in, making an orderly evacuation difficult. In emergency situations, workers need to be able to quickly know which direction to go and where the emergency exits are located.
Since 2019, there is a new standard NEN-EN-ISO 7010:2019 that prescribes which pictograms should be used.
This revision includes all previous corrigenda, as well as water safety signs and beach safety flags previously specified in (the now-repealed) ISO 20712.
Practical training
Drawing up evacuation plans and providing clear pictograms are in order, good! Now you can also prepare your employees for an emergency.
An annual evacuation drill helps them become familiar with the evacuation plan, and reveals any bottlenecks in escape routes or signalling. To make this exercise even more realistic, consider blocking an emergency exit, turning off the lights or positioning an unconscious ‘victim’ somewhere. This ensures that your employees are well prepared for a real emergency.
In addition, employees can participate in training on the use of small extinguishers to effectively fight an incipient fire. Without proper knowledge, fire extinguishers are of little use and remain unused. A certified company emergency responder can also play a crucial role and save lives during emergencies.
Are you momentarily lost on your evacuation plan, and need our help? Or would you like to offer your employees proper first aid or firefighting training?
Then contact us!
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