Escape Route Checklist

Educational checklist examples for safety, equipment and operational tasks — what a checklist covers, who uses it and how it connects to forms, inspections and training. Informational only — template examples to adapt, not official documents or legal advice; completing a checklist does not guarantee compliance and employers remain responsible.

What an escape route checklist is

An escape route checklist confirms that the protected routes and exits leading people out of a building remain clear, unlocked from inside, adequately signed and lit, so they can be relied on in an emergency.

This is an educational overview with a simplified example. It is not an official template — the employer decides, from the fire risk assessment, what the escape routes are and how they must be maintained.

Purpose

• Confirm routes and final exits are clear and unobstructed.
• Check exits open easily from inside without a key.
• Verify directional signage and lighting along the route.
• Record the check and flag any obstruction or defect.

Who completes it

• A competent person appointed by the employer — often a warden or facilities person.
• With input from people who use the areas.
• The employer decides who checks routes and arranges any repairs.
• Obstructions and defects are reported to whoever can act.

When it is used

• On the routine cycle the employer sets.
• After changes to layout, storage or occupancy.
• When a route is reported blocked or an exit will not open.
• As part of broader fire and evacuation checks.

Typical items

• Routes clear of storage, deliveries, waste and trip hazards.
• Final exits unlocked from inside and easy to open.
• Directional and exit signage present and visible.
• Lighting and emergency lighting adequate along the route.
• Fire doors on the route closing properly; obstructions flagged.
• Example items only — adapt to your premises and routes.

Common mistakes

• Storing items or parking equipment along escape routes.
• Exits locked or needing a key to open from inside.
• Missing or hidden signage so the route is not obvious.
• Blocked or wedged fire doors on the route.

Document workflow

The escape route checklist supports the fire safety and evacuation readiness checks and draws on the fire risk assessment, which defines the routes. Problems feed maintenance and housekeeping, and recurring issues may trigger a review.

See the related documents below for what is commonly used with and completed after an escape route checklist.

Retention (high level)

Route checks are usually kept for a period alongside fire records, in line with the employer’s obligations. This page does not state a required period — confirm with the applicable law and the official authority.

Completing and sharing as a PDF

Route checks are commonly recorded and stored as PDFs in the fire log. Exporting to PDF supports the record; it does not make the check official or guarantee compliance.

Employer checklist

• Keep escape routes and exits clear and usable at all times.
• Make sure exits open easily from inside without a key.
• Maintain signage and lighting along the routes.
• Act on obstructions and defects promptly.

Worker notes

• Never store items on or block an escape route.
• Report exits that are locked, stuck or hard to open.
• Know your nearest route and an alternative.

Country considerations

Requirements for escape routes, exits and signage vary by country, and the official authority differs. This page is general and high-level — not a statement of any country’s law and not a guarantee of validity.

Confirm current requirements with the official authority for your country and a qualified professional.

Who is responsible

The employer (or person with control of the premises) is responsible for usable means of escape and for compliance. This page is an educational overview with a template example; it does not determine your routes and does not transfer responsibility.