How to Make a Warehouse Fire Evacuation Map in 2025 [Industry Guide]

Unique Challenges of Warehouse Evacuation

Warehouses present evacuation challenges that differ significantly from offices or retail spaces:

• Large open spaces with long travel distances
• Constantly changing layouts due to inventory
• Heavy equipment (forklifts) in operation
• Loading docks with delivery traffic
• Rack systems that can obstruct views and routes
• Potential hazardous materials storage
• Varying staffing levels by shift

OSHA Requirements for Warehouse Evacuation

Warehouses must meet standard OSHA requirements plus industry-specific considerations:

• Written Emergency Action Plan required
• Evacuation maps posted throughout facility
• Special procedures for forklift operators
• Hazmat procedures if applicable (29 CFR 1910.120)
• Loading dock evacuation protocols
• Assembly points clear of truck traffic
• Consideration for shift workers

Designing Warehouse Exit Routes

Warehouse evacuation routes require special consideration:

• Routes should avoid forklift traffic lanes when possible
• Consider rack collapse scenarios in route planning
• Loading dock areas need alternate routes
• Account for blocked aisles from pallets
• Emergency lighting is critical in large spaces
• Multiple assembly points for large facilities

Equipment and Resource Placement

Proper placement of safety equipment is crucial in warehouses:

• Fire extinguishers every 75 feet (50 feet in high-hazard areas)
• Alarm pull stations at each exit
• Emergency lighting throughout facility
• Spill kits near hazmat storage
• First aid stations in multiple locations
• PA/communication system for large spaces

Generate Your Warehouse Map

Our AI generator understands warehouse layouts and creates appropriate evacuation maps with proper spacing, multiple routes, and industry-specific considerations.