Understanding the Need for Fire Evacuation Schemes

In the event of a fire, the ability to quickly and safely evacuate a building can be the difference between life and death. For businesses across New Zealand, ensuring that there is a robust and approved fire evacuation scheme in place is not just a legal requirement, but a crucial aspect of workplace safety. At Fire Security Services, we specialize in creating comprehensive fire evacuation schemes tailored to the specific needs of businesses throughout New Zealand.

Who Needs an Evacuation Scheme?

Many businesses may wonder whether they require a fire evacuation scheme, but the truth is that a wide variety of building types are mandated by law to have one. According to the Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) Act, owners of certain types of buildings must have an approved evacuation scheme in place. These building types include:

Gathering of 100 or more persons: Buildings that regularly hold large groups of people, such as conference centres, theatres, or event venues, must have an evacuation scheme.

Workplaces with 10 or more employees: If your business employs 10 or more individuals on-site, a fire evacuation scheme is mandatory.

Accommodation providers: Hotels, motels, and other facilities that provide sleeping accommodations for more than five people must have a detailed evacuation plan.

Hazardous substance storage: Businesses that store hazardous materials in quantities above the minimum thresholds set by FENZ are required to have a scheme in place.

Childcare, medical, or specialised care facilities: Locations offering early childhood education, nursing care, or specialised care for people with disabilities also fall under this requirement.

If your business falls into any of these categories, it’s essential to ensure that you have an approved fire evacuation scheme in place to protect your employees, customers, and property.

Why You Might Need to Update Your Evacuation Scheme

Even if you already have a fire evacuation scheme, certain changes in your business operations may trigger the need for an update. For example, if your business is applying for a new liquor license, health or food license, or if you have expanded your accommodation offerings, you may be required to submit an updated evacuation plan. Additionally, changes in building occupancy, layout, or the installation of new alarm systems could necessitate a review and revision of your existing scheme.

How Fire Security Services Can Help

At Fire Security Services, we understand that navigating the requirements for a fire evacuation scheme can be complex and time-consuming. That’s why we offer a full-service solution to guide you through the entire process. Our team can help you determine whether your business needs a new or updated evacuation scheme and will work with you to gather all necessary documentation, such as floor plans, certificates of title, and details of your building’s alarm and emergency lighting systems.

We will design a customized fire evacuation plan tailored to your specific needs, including the development of an assembly area plan and fire emergency procedure notices. Once the plan is complete, we will submit the application to FENZ on your behalf and liaise with them to ensure your scheme is approved as swiftly as possible.

The Importance of Trial Evacuations

Once your fire evacuation scheme is approved, it’s important to regularly test its effectiveness through trial evacuations. We recommend that these drills be conducted at least every six months to ensure that everyone in the building is familiar with the evacuation procedures and that the scheme remains operational. Fire Security Services can organize and oversee these trial evacuations, providing valuable feedback and making any necessary adjustments to the plan.

Conclusion

Fire evacuation schemes are a vital part of ensuring the safety and security of your business and its occupants. By working with Fire Security Services, you can be confident that your evacuation plan is not only compliant with New Zealand law but also tailored to meet the unique needs of your business. Don’t leave safety to chance—let us help you create a fire evacuation scheme that will keep your business and its people safe in the event of an emergency.