# How do I plan for a safe evacuation?

Think about everyone who could be in the building, including people who need assistance.

Jurisdiction: England, Wales
Source check: 2026-11-03. Editorial status: source-checked draft; specialist sign-off pending.

## Who this covers
Those responsible for emergency arrangements in non-domestic premises.

## The requirement
Plan usable escape routes, sufficient exits, clear signs and emergency lighting where needed. Train staff and make arrangements for people with mobility needs.

## Practical steps
- Check routes and exits are usable and kept clear.
- Plan how everyone will leave safely, including anyone needing help.
- Check signs, lighting, training and assembly arrangements.

## Common mistake
An evacuation plan that only works for able-bodied staff does not address everyone who may use the building.

## Timing
Check arrangements regularly and review when occupancy, layout or assistance needs change.

## Questions for a provider
- Can people use the routes if normal lighting fails?
- How have assistance needs been considered?
- How will the plan be practised?

## Official sources
- [GOV.UK: fire safety and evacuation plans](https://www.gov.uk/workplace-fire-safety-your-responsibilities/fire-safety-and-evacuation-plans)

General information, not an assessment or a statement that a business is compliant.


## Plan around the people using the premises

### Before you commission work
Explain different occupancy patterns, visitors and assistance needs to anyone advising on the plan. Identify shared routes and responsibilities. If commissioning lighting work, give the provider the relevant assessment and existing information rather than asking for a generic package based only on room count.

### Follow through on the result
Ask how changes will be communicated to staff and other affected people. Keep lessons from practice and changes in building use connected to the plan. Where a route, system or assistance arrangement raises an unresolved question, assign it for competent review instead of assuming a new document has settled it.

## Related buying guides
- [Fire alarm maintenance contracts: compare coverage and call-outs](https://whatcompliance.com/buying-guides/fire-alarm-maintenance-contracts)

## Buying the right work
- Explain who uses the building and when.
- Identify shared escape routes and people who may need assistance.
- Ask how the proposed plan or lighting work fits the fire risk assessment.

## What you can do yourself
Keep escape routes clear, make arrangements known and organise the checks and practice appropriate to your premises.

## When to get help
Use competent advice for design questions or circumstances your team cannot assess. Do not rely on an evacuation plan that ignores people needing assistance.

## Records to keep
- The emergency plan and responsibilities.
- Relevant practice, staff information and assistance arrangements.
- Checks, maintenance and action on faults.

## Is an evacuation plan only for employees?
No. Consider the people who may use the premises, including visitors and those who need assistance.

Source check for this expanded guide: 2026-11-03. Specialist sign-off pending.