Evacuation Guidelines
What are Evacuation Guidelines?
Evacuation guidelines serve as detailed emergency response plans, addressing:
- Safe evacuation procedures and routes
- Shelter–in–place protocols when appropriate
- Assembly area locations and procedures
- Emergency response coordination
- Critical safety system locations and operation
Required by Code
Evacuation guidelines aren‘t optional – they’re essential safety documentation required by both the International Building Code and International Fire Code.
Just as buildings require exit signs and fire–rated walls, proper evacuation documentation is a fundamental safety requirement.
Excerpt from the 2018 International Building Code
§1002.2 Fire safety and evacuation plans.
Fire safety and evacuation plans shall be provided for all occupancies and buildings where required by the International Fire Code. Such fire safety and evacuation plans shall comply with the applicable provisions of the International Fire Code.
Excerpt from the 2018 International Fire Code:
§403.10.2 Group R-2 occupancies.
Group R-2 occupancies shall comply with sections 403.10.2.1 through 403.10.2.3
§403.10.2.2 Emergency guide.
Fire emergency guides shall be provided for Group R-2 occupancies. Guide contents, maintenance and distribution shall comply with Sections 403.10.2.2.1 through 403.10.2.2.3.
§403.10.2.2.1 Guide contents.
A fire emergency guide shall describe the location, function and use of fire protection equipment and appliances available for use by residents, including fire alarm systems, smoke alarms and portable fire extinguishers. Guides shall include an emergency evacuation plan for each dwelling unit.
§403.10.2.2.2 Emergency guide maintenance.
Emergency guides shall be reviewed and approved by the fire code official.
§403.10.2.2.3 Emergency guide distribution. A copy of the emergency guide shall be given to each tenant prior to initial occupancy.
Beyond Compliance
While meeting code requirements is essential, effective evacuation guidelines do more than satisfy regulations.
Professional documentation ensures:
- Clear emergency procedures for residents and staff
- Coordinated response protocols
- Enhanced life safety protection
- Reduced liability exposure
- Operational readiness for multiple scenarios
Our guidelines exceed minimum requirements while maintaining perfect approval rates across multiple jurisdictions.