FEEP stands for Fire Emergency Evacuation Plan, which is the written procedure of the action to be taken by employees in the workplace in the event of a fire.
What Should the Fire Emergency Evacuation Plan (FEEP) Include?
A Fire Emergency Evacuation Plan (FEEP) should include several key components to ensure a safe and coordinated evacuation in case of a fire.
Evacuation Procedures
This is the heart of the FEEP, outlining the steps everyone must take upon discovering a fire. It should detail:
- Activating the fire alarm (if present)
- Alerting others in the immediate vicinity
- Evacuating the building using designated escape routes (avoiding elevators unless instructed by fire services)
- Staying low (crawling if necessary) to avoid smoke inhalation
- Closing doors behind you (to slow fire spread)
- Proceeding to the designated assembly point outside the building
Designated Escape Routes and Assembly Points
- Clearly identify at least two escape routes from each area (in case one exit is blocked). Mark these routes on a floor plan included in the FEEP and displayed throughout the building.
- Designate a safe assembly point outside, a good distance away from the structure, for post-evacuation headcount.
Responsibilities of Occupants
Define the roles and responsibilities of everyone during a fire emergency. This should include:
- Reporting a discovered fire to the fire department immediately (if safe to do so)
- Assisting others who may need help evacuating (children, elderly, disabled individuals)
- Not re-entering the building until authorized by fire officials
Contact Information for Emergency Services
- Provide clear and accessible contact information for the local fire department within the FEEP document. This can include emergency phone numbers and any alternative reporting methods.
(Optional) Procedures for Specific Situations
The FEEP can be enhanced by including procedures for specific situations:
- Evacuation procedures for people with disabilities (using accessible exits, buddy systems)
- Actions to take if trapped in a room (signaling for help, using a fire door if available)
- Handling small fires with a portable fire extinguisher (if occupants are trained)
Creating and Maintaining a FEEP
The responsibility for creating and implementing a FEEP typically falls on the shoulders of the building owner or manager. This could be a business owner, property manager, or a designated safety committee in larger buildings.
Here’s a breakdown of responsibilities:
Building Owner/Manager:
- Initiate the creation of the FEEP.
- Assign a qualified person or team to develop the plan.
- Provide resources and support for FEEP development and implementation.
- Ensure the FEEP complies with any relevant legal requirements.
Safety Committee (Optional):
- Work collaboratively to develop a comprehensive FEEP.
- Conduct fire safety inspections and identify potential hazards.
- Contribute to ongoing FEEP review and update processes.
Tailoring the FEEP to the Specific Building
A “one-size-fits-all” approach won’t work for FEEPs. Here’s why customization is crucial:
- Building Layout: The FEEP should reflect the specific layout of the building, including the location of exits, stairwells, and potential obstacles.
- Occupancy Type: The needs of occupants will vary depending on the building’s purpose (e.g., office building, school, residential complex). The FEEP should address any specific needs or considerations for different occupant groups.
Regular Review and Update
A FEEP is not a static document. Here’s why regular reviews and updates are essential:
- Changes to the Building: Renovations, new construction, or changes in how the building is used might necessitate adjustments to the escape routes or assembly points.
- Legal Requirements: Fire safety regulations and codes may evolve over time, requiring the FEEP to be updated accordingly.
- Employee/Occupant Turnover: New occupants need to be informed about the FEEP and evacuation procedures. Regular reviews and updates ensure everyone is aware of their role.
Maintaining an up-to-date FEEP demonstrates a proactive approach to fire safety and helps safeguard everyone who occupies the building.
Fire Emergency Evacuation Plan Examples
Here are examples of Fire Emergency Evacuation Plans by various organizations for you to reference when creating your own FEEP document.
- City of Cortland New York FEEP
- City of Madison FEEP
- Town of Babylon FEEP
- Montclair State University FEEP
- University of Washington FEEP
- Florida International University FEEP
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention FEEP Template
- Commonwealth of Pennsylvania FEEP Template
- Seton Health and Safety FEEP Template
Summary on FEEP
Having a Fire Emergency Evacuation Plan (FEEP) in place is undeniably critical for ensuring the safety of everyone in a building during a fire. A well-defined FEEP establishes clear procedures, promotes coordinated evacuation, and minimizes confusion in an emergency situation.
However, fire safety goes beyond just having a FEEP. Here are some additional practices to be aware of:
- Fire Extinguisher Use: If your workplace offers fire extinguisher training, be sure to participate. Knowing how to properly use a fire extinguisher can potentially stop a small fire before it grows out of control.
- Fire Frills: Regularly participate in fire drills to solidify the evacuation process in your mind. Drills help ensure a smooth and swift evacuation during a real fire.
- Preventative Measures: Be proactive in preventing fire hazards. Avoid overloading electrical outlets, keep flammable materials away from heat sources, and practice safe cooking habits.
By following these fire safety practices and familiarizing yourself with the FEEP, you can play a vital role in ensuring everyone’s safety in the event of a fire.
