Evacuation Plan Requirements
Complete guide on legal evacuation plan requirements: who is required, when to post, how to create. Everything you need to know for compliance.
Who must have an evacuation plan?
The obligation to post an evacuation plan applies to:
- All public access buildings (ERP): Regardless of category (1st to 5th)
- Companies with more than 50 employees: According to Labor Code
- High-rise buildings (IGH): Enhanced obligation
- Industrial establishments: Especially classified installations
- Healthcare facilities: Hospitals, clinics, nursing homes
Applicable regulations
Evacuation plan requirements are defined by:
- Decree of June 25, 1980: Public building safety regulations
- Labor Code (art. R. 4227-37 and R. 4227-38): Employer obligations
- Decree of November 4, 1993: Safety signage
- ISO 7010 standard: Safety pictograms (mandatory since 2014)
Mandatory evacuation plan content
A compliant evacuation plan must include:
- Floor plan with orientation
- "You are here" position
- Emergency exits and exits
- Stairs and elevators
- Fire-fighting equipment (extinguishers, hose reels)
- Assembly points
- Pictograms compliant with ISO 7010 standard
- Explanatory legend
Where to post the evacuation plan?
The evacuation plan must be posted:
- At each main building entrance
- On each floor, near stairs
- In corridors and main circulation areas
- In large rooms
- Near elevators
- In areas with particular risks
- At eye level (between 1.40 m and 1.70 m)
Plan format and dimensions
The evacuation plan must follow certain rules:
- Minimum A3 format (297 × 420 mm)
- A2 format recommended for large spaces
- Readable from minimum 5 meters distance
- Laminated or framed for protection
- Sufficient lighting or luminescent
Update frequency
The evacuation plan must be updated:
- With each facility modification (work, reorganization)
- When space allocation changes
- When safety equipment is added or removed
- At least every 3 years (recommended)
- After each safety commission visit
Penalties for non-compliance
Absence or non-compliance of evacuation plan can result in:
- Class 5 fine (up to €1,500)
- Administrative closure of establishment
- Refusal of opening by safety commission
- Civil and criminal liability in case of accident
- Formal notice from labor inspection
Additional requirements
In addition to the evacuation plan, the establishment must:
- Organize regular evacuation drills
- Train staff in evacuation procedures
- Maintain an up-to-date safety register
- Post fire safety instructions
- Maintain safety equipment in good condition
Create your compliant evacuation plan
With Fabrik, easily create an evacuation plan compliant with all legal requirements. ISO 7010 pictograms, regulatory formats, simplified updates.
Create my plan⚡ FreeFrequently asked questions
Who must have an evacuation plan?
All public buildings (any category), companies with more than 50 employees, high-rise buildings, industrial establishments (classified installations), and healthcare facilities must post an evacuation plan.
Where to post the evacuation plan?
The plan must be posted at each main entrance, on each floor near stairs, in corridors, near elevators, and in risk areas. It must be placed at eye level (1.40 m to 1.70 m).
What format for an evacuation plan?
Minimum format is A3 (297 × 420 mm), with A2 format recommended for large spaces. The plan must be readable from 5 meters minimum and protected (laminated or framed).
How often to update the evacuation plan?
The plan must be updated with each facility modification, space allocation change, safety equipment addition/removal, and at least every 3 years. An update is also necessary after each safety commission visit.
What penalties for absence of evacuation plan?
Absence of plan can result in fines up to €1,500, administrative closure, refusal of opening by safety commission, and liability in case of accident.
Evacuation plan resources
Explore our guides to create compliant plans