How to Make a Fire Escape Plan for Your Office in 2025 [Step-by-Step]

Why Office Fire Escape Plans Matter

Offices present unique fire safety challenges: open floor plans, cubicle mazes, server rooms, break room appliances, and high occupancy. A well-designed fire escape plan accounts for these factors and ensures everyone knows exactly what to do.

• Open floor plans can spread smoke rapidly
• Cubicle walls can obstruct visibility during evacuation
• Server rooms and electrical closets pose fire risks
• High occupancy requires multiple exit routes
• Visitors and new employees may not know the building

OSHA Requirements for Office Fire Plans

Under OSHA's 29 CFR 1910.38, offices with 10 or more employees must have a written Emergency Action Plan. Here's what must be included:

• Procedures for reporting fires and emergencies
• Evacuation procedures and exit route assignments
• Procedures for employees who remain to operate critical equipment
• Procedures to account for all employees after evacuation
• Names and job titles of persons to contact for plan information
• Alarm system information and recognition

Designing Exit Routes for Office Layouts

Office layouts require careful consideration when planning evacuation routes. Consider these factors:

• Primary routes should use main corridors
• Secondary routes through alternate stairwells
• Avoid routes through break rooms or server closets
• Consider cubicle farm navigation
• Plan for peak occupancy scenarios
• Account for visitors and temporary workers

Employee Training and Drills

The best evacuation map is useless if employees don't know how to use it. Training is essential:

• New employee orientation must include evacuation training
• Annual refresher training for all staff
• Quarterly fire drills (minimum annual)
• Assign floor wardens for larger offices
• Practice accounting for all employees at assembly points
• Train on fire extinguisher use (optional but recommended)

Create Your Office Evacuation Map Now

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