Workplace Evacuation Drill Checklist: Complete 2025 Guide
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Key Statistics You Should Know
Pre-Drill Planning Checklist
Successful drills require thorough preparation. Use this checklist in the weeks before your drill:
- ☐ Set drill date and time (avoid high-traffic business periods)
- ☐ Notify building management and security
- ☐ Coordinate with local fire department (optional but recommended)
- ☐ Notify occupants of drill window (if announced)
- ☐ Verify evacuation maps are posted and current
- ☐ Confirm evacuation wardens know their responsibilities
- ☐ Prepare attendance rosters for accountability
- ☐ Test alarm systems and notification methods
- ☐ Clear evacuation routes of obstructions
- ☐ Prepare stopwatches/timers for evacuation timing
- ☐ Designate observers at key points
- ☐ Prepare post-drill evaluation forms
Drill Day Execution Checklist
On the day of the drill, follow these steps for successful execution:
- ☐ Brief evacuation wardens on specific observation assignments
- ☐ Confirm all observers are in position
- ☐ Start stopwatches when alarm sounds
- ☐ Activate fire alarm or notification system
- ☐ Wardens sweep assigned areas for stragglers
- ☐ Direct occupants to nearest exits (not elevators)
- ☐ Guide to assembly points per evacuation maps
- ☐ Conduct headcount/accountability check
- ☐ Record total evacuation time
- ☐ Note any problems observed
- ☐ Give "all clear" and authorize re-entry
What Observers Should Watch For
Station observers at key points to identify problems for improvement:
- Time taken to begin evacuation after alarm
- Knowledge of evacuation routes (or confusion)
- Use of correct exits vs. habit paths
- Compliance with "no elevator" rule
- Assistance provided to persons with disabilities
- Wardens performing assigned sweep duties
- Blocked exits or route obstructions
- Proper operation of fire doors
- Gathering at correct assembly points
- Accuracy and speed of headcount
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Post-Drill Review Checklist
After the drill, conduct a thorough review to improve future performance:
- ☐ Collect all observer reports and notes
- ☐ Calculate total evacuation time
- ☐ Identify any employees who didn't evacuate
- ☐ Note any evacuation route problems
- ☐ Assess headcount accuracy and timing
- ☐ Meet with wardens for feedback
- ☐ Compile lessons learned document
- ☐ Update Emergency Action Plan as needed
- ☐ Update evacuation maps if routes need changes
- ☐ Schedule follow-up training for problem areas
- ☐ Document drill in training records
- ☐ Set date for next drill
Documentation Requirements
Proper documentation protects your organization and demonstrates compliance:
- Date, time, and duration of drill
- Total number of participants
- Total evacuation time
- Weather conditions (affects outdoor assembly)
- Any injuries or near-misses
- Problems identified and corrective actions
- Names of evacuation wardens participating
- Observer reports
- Signature of safety manager/coordinator
Integrating Drills with Evacuation Maps
Evacuation drills are the perfect time to verify your evacuation maps are accurate and effective:
- Observe if employees follow mapped routes
- Note if "You Are Here" markers are accurate
- Verify assembly points are appropriately located
- Check if all posted maps are current
- Identify if additional maps are needed
- Test that routes work for actual occupant flow
Key Takeaways & FAQs
How often should we conduct evacuation drills?
OSHA does not specify exact frequency, but recommends drills whenever the plan is updated and for new employees. Best practice is quarterly drills. Schools typically require monthly drills. Some industries and local codes have specific requirements.
Do we have to evacuate the entire building for a drill?
Yes, all occupants should participate for a realistic drill. However, you can notify building management and coordinate with other tenants. Staggered drills floor-by-floor are acceptable for very large buildings.
Should we warn employees about drills?
Initial drills should be announced so employees understand procedures. Once employees are familiar, unannounced drills test real readiness. Consider announcing the time window (e.g., "sometime this week") without the exact time.
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