How to Create an Effective Emergency Evacuation Plan (Life-Saving Guide)

An Emergency Evacuation Plan is a critical component of any workplace safety program. At the beginning of any emergency—whether fire, chemical spill, gas leak, earthquake, or active threat—employees must know exactly what to do and where to go.

A strong evacuation plan can save lives, reduce panic, and ensure compliance with health and safety laws.

This guide will walk you through how to create an effective emergency evacuation plan, step by step.

Why an Emergency Evacuation Plan Is Essential

An emergency is no time for improvisation. According to OSHA, every workplace must have a written emergency action plan. In Canada, provincial regulations like those under OHSA and WorkSafeBC also demand proactive emergency planning.

Without a clear plan, chaos can lead to injuries, deaths, and legal consequences. A well-crafted plan ensures:

• Safe evacuation of all individuals
• Quick response to different emergencies
• Coordination with local emergency services
• Clear communication protocols
• Special considerations for people with disabilities

Step 1: Identify All Potential Emergencies

Start by assessing what kinds of emergencies could happen in or near your workplace:

• Fires or explosions
• Chemical spills or gas leaks
• Natural disasters (earthquakes, floods, tornadoes)
• Active shooter or security threats
• Medical emergencies
• Equipment failures or power outages

Use a risk matrix to prioritize which events are most likely or most severe, and design your plan around these.

Internal link: See our guide on How to Conduct a Workplace Hazard Assessment.

Step 2: Designate Emergency Roles and Responsibilities

Assign specific duties to trained individuals, including:

• Evacuation Wardens – guide others out of the building
• First Aid Attendants – respond to injuries
• Shut-Down Coordinators – safely turn off machinery or hazardous operations
• Communication Officers – liaise with emergency services and media
• Sweepers – check all rooms are cleared

Make sure backup personnel are trained in each role in case someone is absent.

Step 3: Establish Clear Evacuation Routes and Exits

Map out all exit points and routes using:

• Floor plans with arrows
• Clearly marked emergency exits
• Signage that’s visible in low visibility
• Unobstructed paths free of clutter

Each floor or department should have at least two evacuation routes. Post maps at eye level throughout the facility and update them when layouts change.

Step 4: Determine Assembly Areas and Headcount Procedures

Designate safe assembly points at a reasonable distance from the building. These should:

• Avoid vehicle access routes for emergency responders
• Have enough space for the entire staff
• Be known to all employees

Set up a muster or roll-call procedure. Use headcounts or sign-in sheets to confirm everyone is safely out.

Step 5: Create a Communication Strategy

During emergencies, information must be shared quickly. Plan for:

• Alarm systems (audible and visual)
• Mass notification systems (email, SMS, PA systems)
• Emergency contact lists
• Two-way radios for on-site coordinators

Also, prepare communication templates for contacting local emergency services and alerting family members.

Step 6: Account for Special Needs and Visitors

Your emergency evacuation plan must include:

• Evacuation assistance for persons with mobility or sensory impairments
• Procedures for visitors, contractors, and non-staff
• Tools like evacuation chairs or buddy systems
• Translation or pictorial signage for non-native speakers

Inclusivity saves lives—ensure no one is left behind.

Step 7: Train, Drill, and Update the Plan Regularly

Training is vital. Employees must understand the plan—not just read it. Include:

• Orientation sessions for new hires
• Annual refresher training
• Evacuation drills at least twice a year

After each drill, review performance: What worked? What didn’t? Then revise the plan accordingly.

Step 8: Document and Share Your Plan

Your emergency evacuation plan should be:

• Written, clear, and accessible
• Stored both digitally and in print
• Available in multiple locations (break rooms, entrances, etc.)

Train leaders on the document and conduct walkthroughs. Make sure third-party contractors are also briefed.

Example Emergency Evacuation Plan Checklist

Useful Tools and Templates

• Emergency Plan Template – Ready.gov (DoFollow)
• Workplace Emergency Response Planning Guide – CCOHS (DoFollow)
• OHSE.ca – Canadian Safety Resources (DoFollow)

Conclusion

Creating an Emergency Evacuation Plan is not just about ticking a box—it’s about protecting lives. By following these steps, you can develop a clear, effective, and inclusive plan that prepares your workforce for any crisis.

Remember to test your plan, train your team, and treat this as a living document—regularly updated as risks, staff, and operations evolve.