- Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005
- Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996
In an emergency, clear visual information saves seconds. Fire evacuation maps help occupants and visitors quickly understand how to leave the building safely and where to assemble. This guide explains what a good map includes, grounded in the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and the Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996.
Why evacuation maps matter
Fire evacuation maps help occupants and visitors quickly understand escape routes, assembly points and the location of fire-fighting equipment. They are a practical part of the emergency plan required under the Fire Safety Order.
What a good map includes
- Escape routes and alternative routes
- Final exits
- Assembly points
- Location of fire-fighting equipment (extinguishers, hose reels)
- Fire alarm call points
- Fire doors
- Location of the viewer ('You are here')
- Key hazards or restricted areas
Standards and placement
Maps should use standardised symbols consistent with the Safety Signs and Signals Regulations 1996, be clearly legible, and be displayed at prominent locations — particularly near entrances and on each floor.
Integration with the emergency plan
Evacuation maps should be consistent with the documented emergency plan and reviewed whenever the premises layout or use changes. A map that does not match the actual building is worse than no map.
LRMS support
We can help you develop clear, compliant evacuation maps and emergency plans as part of your fire safety management arrangements.
Cited Sources & Official References
Frequently Asked Questions
What should a fire evacuation map include?
A fire evacuation map should include escape routes and alternatives, final exits, assembly points, fire-fighting equipment locations, fire alarm call points, fire doors, a 'You are here' marker, and key hazards or restricted areas.
Are fire evacuation maps a legal requirement?
The Fire Safety Order requires an emergency plan, and clear signage is required under the Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996. Evacuation maps are a practical way to meet these duties, particularly in larger or complex premises.
Where should fire evacuation maps be displayed?
Maps should be displayed at prominent locations — particularly near entrances and on each floor — using standardised symbols and clear, legible text.
About Louanne Lanahan
Founder & Director · CMIOSH · OSHCR · MIFSM · AIFireE · NFRAR
Chartered Safety Practitioner (CMIOSH), registered on OSHCR, MIFSM, AIFireE, and NFRAR. Founder and Director of Lanahan Risk Management Services Ltd.