Is Your Emergency Evacuation Plan Up To Date?
An effective emergency evacuation plan is essential in any business to ensure the health and safety of people and property.
Fire Evacuation Plans Perth
If you are the owner, manager or operator of a facility; that is any building or workplace that may have occupants or visitors, you are required to have an emergency evacuation plan and procedures in place.
Your evacuation plan, as stipulated in your emergency management policy, must conform to the Work Health & Safety Regulation 2017 standards & non-compliance could result in fines up to $30,000.
50%
Less than 50% of building occupants feel confident of knowing what action to take and where to evacuate to during an emergency.
25%
Less than 25% of people when randomly tested can locate their nearest fire extinguisher from memory without searching the building.
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What makes up a fire evacuation plan?
There are 3 main factors that make up an effective fire evacuation plan in Perth:
Evacuation Diagrams
Evacuation diagrams are essential to any fire evacuation plan. They are often situated throughout common areas and general paths of travel in areas where they are easily seen by people.
These diagrams show vital information that is essential in case of emergency. In accordance with AS3745 they must at a minimum show the firefighting safety equipment, designated exit points, emergency assembly areas & evacuation routes. Normally, a workplace must have at least two exit routes, including a secondary escape route, to permit prompt evacuation of employees during an emergency.
The total quantity of evacuation signs and diagrams will be established by the Emergency Planning Committee, also known as the EPC.
Emergency Response Plan
Emergency Response Plans contain all information relating to the facilities emergency plan and emergency response and evacuation procedure.
All roles & responsibilities of staff will be listed here as well as emergency phone numbers, potential hazards and risks for the workplace, emergency procedures, visitor management & other vital information.
Emergency Training
All members of the Emergency Planning Committee (EPC) must be well rehearsed with their duties and preparedness in accordance with the emergency response plan.
Regular Fire Safety training must be conducted to ensure all relevant staff are familiar with their roles & able to confidently perform should an emergency situation occur.
Fire Safety training may include activities for pre & post emergency, training using first-attack firefighting equipment, fire evacuation drills or simulations for visitors or occupants who may have mobility restrictions or medical conditions.
Do you have a solid fire evacuation plan?
Fire Block Plans will work with you to design an emergency evacuation plan that fits your business – ensuring compliance with all relevant Australian Standards and maximising safety. For more information, contact us today.
“We reached out to Fire Block Plans trying to find a company that could create Evacuation Diagrams for 21 of our sites spread across Australia.
Over the next few weeks they arranged their contractors to attend our sites, keeping us in the loop with all inspection dates so that we could inform our staff.
The completed diagrams look extremely professional & were completed in a timely manner.
We would happily work with Fire Block Plans again & would recommend them to any business’s that have properties all over Australia.”
Evacuation Diagrams Perth
Evacuation Diagrams must be visibly displayed throughout your workplace as part of your emergency evacuation plan. This is essential in case of a fire or emergency and may prove the difference between life or death. Clause 3.5.2 of AS 3745-2010 notes that evacuation diagrams should not be fitted to fire doors, smoke doors or other fire resistant elements of construction unless this has been tested or a formal opinion has been obtained from an appropriate authority.
This is a requirement in accordance with AS3745 – Planning for emergencies in facilities and failure to comply may result in penalties up to $30,000.
The Emergency Planning Committee (EPC) is responsible for ensuring your sites evacuation diagrams are up to date & have all the required information.
What are the requirements for Evacuation Diagrams?
AS3745–2010 lists the requirements for evacuation diagrams
Minimum Elements as per Clause 3.5.5:
- Validity dates
- Site address & name of facility if applicable
- A symbol legend in accordance with the diagram
- Designated exit points of the building
- Evacuation routes
- First-attack firefighting equipment – fire extinguishers, fire blankets, fire hose reels etc.
- Emergency Assembly Area either in words or pictorial representation
- The “You Are Here” location
- Fire Indicator Panel (FIP)
Optional Elements as per Clause 3.5.6
- Fire Hydrants
- Electrical Distribution Boards
- North Direction
- First Aid and Emergency Kits or Defibrillators
- Emergency information – phone numbers, evacuation procedures etc.
- Door directions for designated emergency exit routes
Perth Evacuation Diagrams
Who is responsible for them?
The PCBU, that is the ‘Person or persons conducting a business or undertaking’ is responsible for ensuring Evacuation Diagrams are visibly displayed throughout your workplace for emergency management.
This could be an individual or an organisation, some examples may be:
- A builder or site manager
- An office building owner
- A retail manager
- Anybody who is self employed running their own business
- School principal or head office staff
- A warehouse or store manager
- The operator of a franchise fast food outlet
Evacuation Diagram
Essential Information
Orientation
Evacuation Diagrams are required to be orientated in relation to each You Are Here. Depending on the wall it will be mounted on will determine the orientation for that particular diagram. The site plan showing the designated assembly area and the safest route to evacuate during an emergency must always match the floor plans.
Location
You must have Evacuation Diagrams installed throughout the common paths of travel. In accordance with AS3745 they must be located so that they are easily visible to occupants & visitors.
The total quantity of Evacuation Diagrams required will be allocated by the Emergency Planning Committee (EPC).
Minimum Size
Each Evacuation Diagram must be no smaller than A4 and must have a minimum floor plan size of 150mm x 200mm or 30,000m².
For any diagram that consists of optional elements in addition to the minimum requirements then it must be no smaller than A3 and must have a minimum floor plan size of 200mm x 300mm or 60,000m².
Other important information
When installing your diagrams you must ensure that there is no less than 1200mm to the bottom & no more than 1600mm to the top from the finished floor level.
Evacuation Diagrams can be produced in numerous ways – laminating & framing being the most common.
Evacuation Diagrams
FAQS
What is the cost for Evacuation Diagrams?
We provide Evacuation Diagrams starting from as low as $100. The amount of work involved will vary depending on several factors – is a site inspection required? What type of finish are you after?
Do you operate Australia wide?
Yes we do. From major cities to rural towns we cover all states & territories to serve our customers.
- New South Wales
- Queensland
- South Australia
- Tasmania
- Victoria
- Western Australia
We provide fire evacuation plans for all areas including:
- Sydney
- Melbourne
- Brisbane
- Perth
- Adelaide
- Gold Coast
Do you provide site inspections?
Yes. However, if you are able to provide the information required we may not need to. We can work with you to establish the best solution for your business.
How long are my evacuation diagrams valid?
In Perth evacuation diagrams are valid for 5 years or until any renovations or changes to the business or building structure have been implemented.
In what format will my Evacuation Diagrams be provided?
Depending on your needs we can offer many different options – Laminated Paper, Snap-lock Frames, Aluminium Composite Material, Acrylic & more.
Not sure where to start?
Fire Block Plans have specialised consultants in Perth who can assist you and your team in planning and developing an effective emergency response plan for your workplace to help with your preparedness in the event of an emergency. To know more about our services,talk to us for a consultation and enquire now!
Emergency Response Plans Perth
An Emergency Response Plan is a document containing vital information in case of fire or other emergency.
An effective emergency response plan paired with evacuation diagrams & ongoing Fire Safety training makes for an extremely effective evacuation plan. For planning, preparedness, and for health and safety management, it may be the difference between life & death should an emergency occur and people need to escape safely and effectively. If your workplace does not consist of an up-to-date emergency response plan you as the owner or manager could be subject to fines up to $30,00.
Emergency Response Plan
Where do we start?
When planning and developing an emergency response plan for your workplace you must first establish an Emergency Control Organisation (ECO).
The ECO is made up of the staff that will perform specific duties during an emergency situation. This may include First Aid Officers, Chief Warden, Floor Wardens, Emergency Evacuation Coordinators, Communications officers, etc.
The Emergency Planning Committee (EPC) is responsible for identifying the potential hazards and risks, conducting risk assessment, and implementing the corresponding risk management and controls in the facility.Many factors may influence the types of potential danger, hazards and risks for your premises, just a few possible emergency scenarios could be:
- Medical Emergency
- Terrorism or armed robbery
- Hazardous material and chemical spill
- Hold up/security threat
- Bushfire or building fire + smoke damage, or smoke hazards
- Bomb threat
- Other natural disaster
In addition to the possible primary threats and strategies the following emergency response procedures may also be part of your written emergency response plan:
- Contact details for emergency & utility services such as the fire brigade.
- Warden & other ECO member details.
- Written Evacuation Procedures
- First-attack firefighting equipment, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) information & instructions
- The Evacuation Diagrams for the facility
- Emergency Assembly Area location
As each workplace varies, it is imperative that a thorough planning and risk assessment is conducted in your site to ensure that the correct emergency response plan is designed for your business. If your workplace may contain an individual or individuals who may have mobility restrictions or medical conditions that may require additional assistance in case of an emergency you may require a Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan (PEEP) to be developed.
Evacuation Planning
FAQS
What is an Emergency Planning Committee (EPC)?
It is the EPC’s responsibility to ensure an effective emergency evacuation plan & planning diagrams are in place and regularly maintained.
What is an Emergency Control Organisation (ECO)?
An ECO are the persons allocated critical roles & responsibilities to fulfil in case of a fire or emergency. These may include Fire Wardens, First Aid Officers etc.
How often should I review my Emergency Response Plan?
Your Emergency Response Plan must be reviewed each year in accordance with AS1851. You should also review your emergency plans and procedures & emergency information after any changes to the business including renovations or whenever an incident has occurred.
Emergency Response Training Perth
Emergency response training is arguably the most important piece of the puzzle when it comes to emergency evacuation planning.
In the event of an emergency, panic sets in which is why it is vital that staff are trained and familiar in their roles & responsibilities prior to an emergency. Having adequate preparation before an emergency is vital in ensuring that employees, occupants, and visitors know where to go and how to keep themselves safe during an emergency.
In accordance with AS 3745 emergency training should be conducted for:
- The Emergency Planning Committee (at least 1 member)
- The Emergency Control Organisation
- For occupants and visitors of the facility
The types of Fire Safety training required will vary between different workplaces however the frequency of training should be in accordance with AS 3745:
Emergency Response Training
Where do we start?
Emergency Planning Committee (EPC) Training
According to Clause 6.2 of AS 3745-2010, the following training must be provided to EPC members to enable them to competently execute their obligations during an emergency:
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(a) Developing, managing and maintaining an emergency plan.
(b) The duties of the EPC and ECO as described in the emergency response procedures and emergency plan.
(c) The duties of the ERT, where it exists, as described in the emergency response procedures and emergency plan.
(d) The conduct of site-specific emergency identification and analysis.
(e) Establishing and managing an ECO
(f) The management of appropriate documentation.
(g) The management and development of assessment activities.
(h) The development and implementation of training activities including emergency exercise management.
(i) Emergency mitigation, emergency preparedness and emergency prevention.
(j) The installed fire safety systems, for example, sprinkler systems, fire doors and installed emergency communications, notifications and warnings.
(k) Liaison with Emergency Services.
(l) Post-evacuation management
ECO Training
According to Clause 6.3.1.1 of AS 3745-2010, all ECO members, including nominated deputies, shall be trained to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to undertake the duties set out in the emergency response procedures.
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Clause 6.3.1.2 states that the training shall address, but not necessarily be limited to, the following:
(a) The duties of the ECO as described in the emergency response procedures and emergency plan.
(b) Procedures for the specific emergencies contained in the emergency plan.
(c) Responding to alarms and reports of emergencies.
(d) Reporting emergencies and initiating the installed emergency warning equipment.
(e) Communication during emergencies.
(f) Pre-emergency activities
(g) Emergency activities.
(h) Post-emergency activities.
(i) Occupants and visitors with disabilities.
(j) Human behaviour during emergencies.
(k) The use of installed emergency response equipment.
(l) The performance of the building and its installations during a fire or other emergency.
NOTE: Examples include fire doors, emergency lights, exit-signage, sprinklers, ventilation and smoke control systems and fire-rated stairs.
The training shall include exercises and assessment.
Chief Warden, Deputy Chief Warden, Communications Officer Training
Clause 6.3.2 of AS 3745-2010 states that persons appointed to the positions of chief warden, deputy chief warden and communications officer, along with the nominated deputies for each position, shall have additional training, including but not limited to the following:
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(a) Their roles and responsibilities within the emergency plan.
(b) Duties of the EPC.
(c) Duties of the ERT, where it exists, as described in the emergency response procedures.
(d) Decision-making, command and control.
(e) Record keeping.
(f) Actions for the specific emergencies contained in the emergency response procedures.
(g) Coordination of communications(s) during emergencies, including use of any installed specialised communications equipment.
(h) Liaison with Emergency Services.
(i) Coordination of evacuation activities.
(j) Implementation of post-emergency activities in accordance with the emergency plan.
First-attack Firefighting Training
According to Clause 6.3.3 of AS 3745-2010, where first-attack firefighting by specific occupants is included in the emergency procedures, these occupants shall be trained to enable them to competently execute their duties.
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The training for first-attack firefighting shall address, but not necessarily be limited to, the following:
(a) The duties of the ECO, and ERT, where it exists.
(b) Preparing for site-specific fires.
(c) Reporting fires.
(d) Evacuating from endangered areas.
(e) Identifying, reporting and correcting unsafe conditions.
(f) Responding to fire emergencies.
(g) Identifying the classes of fire.
(h) Selecting the correct first-attack firefighting equipment.
(i) Safe operating procedures for first-attack firefighting equipment.
(j) Determining if it is safe and appropriate to use first-attack firefighting equipment.
(k) Procedures to be followed after first-attack firefighting equipment has been used.
(l) Post evacuation activities.
Emergency Response Skills Training
According to Clause 6.3.4 of AS 3745-2010, where a specialist ERT has been deemed necessary, training specific to the emergencies identified in the emergency plan shall be developed and carried out.
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In addition to the training detailed in Clause 6.3.3, response skills training shall address but not necessarily be limited to the following:
(a) Command and control.
(b) Safe, effective actions to take control of workplace emergencies.
(c) Pre-emergency planning.
(d) Reacting safely to emergencies.
(e) Emergencies that may occur.
(f) Procedures for specific emergencies.
(g) Specialized equipment use.
(h) Pre- and post-emergency servicing requirements
(i) Responding to identified emergencies.
Training for Occupants working at a facility
According to Clause 6.4.1 of AS 3745-2010, all occupants working at a facility shall receive training to enable them to act in accordance with the emergency response procedures.
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The training set out in this Clause should be provided for all new occupants including casual occupants/employees, at the commencement of their duties in a workplace or their occupancy of a structure.
The training should include, but not necessarily be limited to, the following:
(a) Occupant responsibilities within the facility emergency response procedures.
(b) The types of emergencies contained in the emergency plan.
(c) How to report emergencies including activation of emergency alert and alarm systems, if installed.
(d) Recognising and reporting unsafe conditions, and correcting unsafe conditions when appropriate.
(e) The authorities, roles, responsibilities and identification of ECO members.
(f) Reacting safely to emergencies and fire alarms.
(g) Evacuation procedures.
(h) The location of internal and external staging and assembly areas, as contained in the emergency plan.
(i) The location of egress routes.
(j) Post-emergency protocols.
(k) Procedures for specific emergencies.
Training for Occupants not working at a facility
According to Clause 6.4.2 of AS 3745-2010, occupants of a facility, who do not work at that facility, should receive training to enable them to act in accordance with the emergency response procedures. If training is not given,appropriate information should be provided.
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Similarly, visitors at the facility should be provided with appropriate information on the emergency response procedures, as determined by the EPC.
Occupants Skills Retention Training – No more than 12 months apart:
According to Clause 6.5.2 of AS 3745-2010, occupants should participate in skills retention activities at intervals not greater than 12 months, to enable them to act in accordance with the emergency response procedures.
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Occupants’ skills retention activities shall address the following:
(a) Responding to alarms and reports of emergencies.
(b) Personal emergency evacuation plans, where these are in place.
(c) Procedures for specific emergencies as contained in the emergency response procedures.
(d) Identification of ECO members.
Occupant skills retention may be delivered by various methods (e.g., verbal, classroom, diagrams and online).
[This activity will ensure occupants are familiar with the members of the ECO) & are aware of the sites evacuation procedures and emergency information. It should also address responding to alarms and reporting of any emergencies.
First-attack firefighting equipment training – No more than 2 years apart:
If first-attack firefighting equipment such as portable fire extinguishers, fire blankets and fire hose reels form part of your emergency plan and procedures, the relevant building occupants must attend a skills retention activity to help assist in smoke and fire – First-attack fire emergencies.
Emergency Response Training – No more than 12 months apart
If an Emergency Response Team (ERT) has been deemed a necessity, the members of the ERT must perform skills retention in their allocated duties.
Emergency Control Organisation (ECO) Skills Retention Training – No more than 6 months apart
According to Clause 6.5.1.1 of AS 3745-2010, ECO members, including nominated deputies, shall attend a skills retention activity at intervals not greater than 6 months.
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Skills retention activities shall:
(a) be determined by the EPC, based on the specific requirements for the facility and its emergency plan;
(b) include revision of roles and responsibilities as set out in the emergency response procedures; and
(c) include instruction on the operation of the communications system (if installed).
Skills retention activities may also include, but not necessarily be limited to, table-top exercises and evacuation exercises for the ECO.
The exact ECO training will be outlined by the Emergency Planning Committee based on the facilities emergency response plan & procedures. The critical roles & responsibilities of the ECO must be rehearsed and this may include demonstrating using the sites communications system (if applicable).
Emergency Response Rehearsals (fire evacuation drills) – No more than 12 months apart
Site specific emergency response exercises must be developed to ensure the emergency plan in place is practical & effective.
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Once the initial emergency procedures have been developed a fire drill must be completed within a 12-month period. All areas of a facility must then participate in at least one emergency response exercise with a simulated fire evacuation each year. All workers and occupants of the area or floor must be involved unless the EPC grants a written exemption.
Emergency Response Training
FAQS
What colours should the members of our ECO wear?
White Apparel
Chief Warden, Communications Officers & Emergency co-ordinators
Red
Local Warden
Yellow
Area or Floor Warden
Green
First Aid Officers
How many fire wardens should we have at our facility?
Whilst there is no rule in place 2 fire wardens per 20 occupants is common practice. This will cover if one of the wardens is unavailable.
Less than 50% of building occupants feel confident of knowing what action to take and where to evacuate to during an emergency.
Less than 25% of people when randomly tested can locate their nearest fire extinguisher from memory without searching the building.
50%
Less than 50% of building occupants feel confident of knowing what action to take and where to evacuate to during an emergency.
25%
Less than 25% of people when randomly tested can locate their nearest fire extinguisher from memory without searching the building.
Evacuation diagrams are critical to your safety plan
Not only is it a legal requirement to have a regularly updated evacuation and escape plan, it is also important for keeping people and property safe.
An effective emergency plan can prevent injuries, loss of life, damage to property and reduce interruptions to your business, offering valuable peace of mind in an emergency.
WH&S Regulations
AS 3745-2010 is the Australian Standard for the planning and implementation of effective Emergency Planning Committee (EPC) and Emergency Control Organisation (ECO) procedures, covering emergency situations up until the appropriate emergency service arrives.. It was developed as a best practice guide for building safety and provides a framework in developing your workplace’s emergency management plans.
Fire Protection Association Australia (FPAA)
Fire Protection Association Australia (FPA Australia) is the national peak body for fire safety, providing information, services and education to the fire protection industry and the community.
The FPAA states that:
Anyone conducting a business or undertaking business at a facility should ensure they have evacuation diagrams in accordance with the requirements of AS 3745-2010.
Compliance
Fire Block Plans design emergency evacuation plans in Perth & diagrams to comply with these standards, ensuring the fastest and most effective evacuation solution possible for your facility.
Fire Evacuation Plans Perth
Fire Block Plans in Perth will work with you to design a fire evacuation plan that fits your business.
About Perth, Australia
Perth is the capital and the largest city in Western Australia (WA). It is Australia’s fourth most populous city with a population of 2.08 million residing in Greater Perth in 2018.
Perth is part of the South West Land Division of Western Australia, with much of the Swan Coastal Plain metropolitan area between the Indian Ocean and Darling Scarp. The city has spread from the initial settlements on the Swan River, where the central business district of the city and the port of Fremantle are located.
our clients
what they say
Their communication with all our site managers was excellent, ensuring we were aware of any inspection dates. The diagrams look extremely professional and were completed in a timely manner Our experience with Fire Block Plans was terrific and we highly recommend them for anyone needing evacuation diagrams.
We found Fire Block Plans through a google search whilst looking for a company that could provide evacuation diagrams in the ACT. The communication was great from start to finish which really helped with our tight deadline. After they visited our site they proceeded to design the drawings in around 4 business days. There were no changes required & the diagrams were installed 2 days later! Very impressed with their works & highly recommend Fire Block Plans for anyone needing evacuation diagrams.
I am currently based as a building manager, within a premium asset in New South Wales (NSW) that required upgrades to our site Evacuation plans. Due to works from a previous contract not being sufficient and non conformed. I sourced Fire Block Plans. Gordon was very responsive and helped us with the current design and layout for our complex with the final signs that had been missing. Great service and cost saving approach to help us out. Highly recommended and will consider in future sites.
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Examples
Do you have a solid evacuation and escape plan
Fire Block Plans in Perth will work with you to design an emergency evacuation and escape plan that fits your business – ensuring compliance with all relevant Australian Standards and maximising safety. For more information, contact us today.