The safety of employees and building residents is a priority, so it is worth understanding evacuation procedures and policies to effectively manage emergency situations.

Evacuation is the organized movement of people that occurs in the event of a threat, e.g. fire. Evacuation planning is an essential element of any fire protection system. Every building, both residential and commercial, should have a carefully developed evacuation plan. This is the first step in ensuring safety in the event of a fire hazard. It is also necessary to designate safe evacuation routes in the building.

Each building should be equipped with appropriate fire-fighting equipment, such as fire extinguishers, hydrants, and alarm systems. This allows you to react quickly and effectively in the event of a fire, which can significantly facilitate evacuation.

Education and training of employees and building residents are crucial to a successful evacuation. Everyone should know the rules of evacuation, the location of fire extinguishers and escape routes, and the rules of conduct in the event of a fire. Fire protection training they also aim to familiarize employees with applicable fire safety regulations. Of particular importance is the Regulation of the Minister of Interior and Administration of June 7, 2010 on fire protection of buildings, other buildings and areas.

Escape routes, i.e. corridors and doors, should always be accessible and free from obstructions. This is a key part of ensuring that you can exit the building quickly if necessary.

Alarm systems and fire detection are an integral part of security. Audible and visual signals should be easily recognizable so that everyone in the building responds immediately to the threat.

Evacuation of people with disabilities requires special attention. The building should be adapted to the needs of these people, and evacuation plans should include special procedures and assistance, if necessary.

Evacuation plans should include a place where all evacuees will gather. This will allow you to quickly check whether everyone has left the building and whether there are any missing people. If the building has a fire safety manual, this document contains information about the assembly point for evacuation.

Regular evacuation drills are extremely important. They allow employees and residents to become familiar with procedures in practice, which can significantly speed up evacuation in the event of a real threat. It is important that such exercises take place regularly.

Evacuation from a building is a process that aims to quickly and safely leave the facility in the event of a threat such as fire, earthquake or other emergency situations. Below I present the basic rules for evacuation from a building.

The first rule of evacuation is to stay calm. Remember that during evacuation, panic may lead to dangerous situations and make it difficult to leave the building efficiently. It is also important that the employee is obliged to turn off or secure devices and materials that may pose a threat.

Escape routes such as corridors, emergency stairs and exits are designed for effective evacuation. Use them instead of trying to open new routes.

In the event of a fire hazard or power outage, avoid using the elevator as it may get stuck, leading to delays or loss of evacuation.

If you see a hazard or fire, immediately warn other people in the building, especially those who may not be aware of the situation. Are you the person in charge of the action? Then you are responsible for helping other people nearby. However, it is important to be reasonable and rationally assess the situation you are in.

It’s best if you go to the nearest emergency exit. If this is not possible, try to find an alternative evacuation route.

Maintain visual contact with the exit door or main exit whenever possible so you can know where they are, even in low visibility conditions. This is especially important in heavily smoky rooms. Then it’s best if you move along the walls – with your head as close to the floor as possible.

After an evacuation, do not attempt to return to the building unless you are sure it is safe and in accordance with the recommendations of the evacuation authorities. First of all, remember to cooperate with the people who manage the evacuation of the building – even before the arrival of the State Fire Service.

If you are able and have the opportunity, help others during the evacuation, especially if they have a disability or need support. If you are waiting to evacuate, remember not to open windows and doors, protect yourself and others with a wet blanket or coat, and protect your respiratory tract. You can protect them with a tissue or a wet cloth.

The rules for evacuating a building may vary slightly depending on the location and type of threat. Therefore, it is important to familiarize yourself with local regulations and evacuation plans and regularly participate in evacuation drills to be prepared for any emergency situations.

Source:https://www.bhp-center.com.pl/ochrona-powiedzpozarowa-ewakuacja-z-budynku/

Supported by Norway through Norway Grants 2014-2021, in the frame of the Programme “Social Dialogue – Decent Work”.