Guide
Means of Escape in Fire Risk Assessments
By Fire Risk Experts editorial team. Reviewed by Fire safety editorial reviewer. Last reviewed: 19 July 2026. Last updated: 19 July 2026. Next review: 19 January 2027.
A practical guide to escape routes, exits, travel distances and management controls.
Direct answer
Means of escape covers how people can move from a place of danger to safety, including routes, exits, lighting, signs, doors and management arrangements.
Key takeaways
- Escape routes must remain usable.
- Occupancy and layout influence escape strategy.
- Management controls are as important as physical exits.
Fire Risk Assessments pillar
This guide is part of the Fire Risk Assessments pillar. Use it alongside related guidance and property-specific pages when preparing an enquiry.
What to prepare
- Property address, postcode, use and occupancy details.
- Existing fire risk assessment and action plan, if available.
- Fire alarm, emergency lighting, extinguisher and fire-door records where held.
- Information about sleeping accommodation, vulnerable occupants or unusual risks.
Sources
- Fire safety in the workplace, GOV.UK. Accessed 2026-07-19. Responsibilities for employers, owners, landlords, occupiers and others with control of non-domestic premises.
- Fire safety: guidance for those with legal duties, Home Office. Accessed 2026-07-19. Collection of fire safety law and guidance for responsible persons.
- The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, legislation.gov.uk. Accessed 2026-07-19. Primary legislation for general fire safety duties in England and Wales.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need technical details before requesting a quote?
No. Start with property type, address, use, occupancy, floors, sleeping accommodation and timescale.
Need a quote?
Send the practical details and we will review the enquiry for suitable provider matching.
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Fire Risk Assessments
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