Map Your Exit Routes with OSHAmap
When 29 CFR 1910.38 applies, emergency plans include evacuation procedures and exit-route assignments. Draft the map with OSHAmap, then use OSHA Scan to review visible route conditions.
Independent Partner: OSHAmap.com is an independent mapping tool partner. It is not owned by OSHA Scan and does not automatically guarantee OSHA compliance. You should review maps against the actual workplace and applicable requirements, with qualified review recommended where appropriate.
When is an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) required?
An Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is required by particular OSHA standards. When 29 CFR 1910.38 applies, the plan must include procedures for emergency evacuation, including the type of evacuation and exit-route assignments.
While OSHA's eTool notes that most employers create maps to direct employees, federal OSHA does not impose one universal posted-map requirement. You must check applicable OSHA standards, adopted fire/building codes, and requirements from your local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).
For employers with 10 or fewer employees, the plan may be communicated orally. If you have more than 10 employees, your plan must be written, kept in the workplace, and available for employee review.
Core Elements of an EAPSource
- Procedures for reporting a fire or other emergency
- Procedures for emergency evacuation, including type of evacuation and exit route assignments
- Procedures to be followed by employees who remain to operate critical plant operations before they evacuate
- Procedures to account for all employees after evacuation
- Procedures to be followed by employees performing rescue or medical duties
- The name or job title of every employee who may be contacted for more plan information
Map It, Then Inspect It
A drawn map doesn't guarantee a clear physical route. Use OSHAmap to draft your evacuation paths, and OSHA Scan to monitor the real conditions on the floor.
Draft Evacuation Maps
OSHAmap is a dedicated tool for drawing and placing industry-standard icons on floor plans. Use it to designate primary and secondary exit routes, assembly areas, and safety equipment locations.
- Draw floor plans and walls
- Place 'You Are Here' markers
- Export printable PDFs
Inspect Physical Routes
OSHA Scan analyzes real-world job-site photos for visible hazards. Use it to identify blocked access, missing or obscured signs, and clutter obstructing your designated physical exit routes.
- Identify blocked aisles & walkways
- Flag obscured or missing exit signs
- Catch trip hazards in designated paths
Note: Photo analysis flags visible conditions; it does not validate an entire route or certify compliance.
Minimum Requirements for Exit Routes
Before drafting a map, review the physical workplace against applicable exit-route requirements, including OSHA 1910.36 where it applies.
At Least Two Exits
Workplaces generally must have at least two exit routes to permit prompt evacuation, located as far away as practical from each other.
Unobstructed Paths
Exit routes must be free of explosive or highly flammable materials, furnishings, and other obstructions at all times.
Proper Discharge
An exit route must discharge directly outside or to a street, walkway, refuge area, or public space large enough to accommodate all evacuees.
Clear Signs & Lighting
Routes must be adequately lit. Each exit must be clearly visible and marked by a sign reading 'Exit'.
What belongs on an evacuation map?
When maps are required or used, they should be clear, highly visible, and effectively communicate the safest exit routes from various locations within the facility.
Maps are typically posted in well-lit, high-traffic areas where employees and visitors can easily orient themselves. Using universal safety symbols helps ensure your emergency map is understood instantly.
Create your floor plan in minutes
OSHAmap is designed for safety managers and facility owners who need to quickly generate clear, printable evacuation maps without expensive CAD software.
Upload or Draw
Start with an existing blueprint, photo of a fire escape plan, or draw your walls and rooms from scratch using simple tools.
Place Safety Icons
Drag and drop industry-standard icons for exits, fire extinguishers, first aid, and 'You Are Here' markers.
Export & Post
Download high-resolution PDFs of your completed maps. Review them against the actual workplace and applicable posting requirements before use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does federal OSHA universally require a posted evacuation map?
No. Federal OSHA does not impose one universal posted-map requirement for every business. However, when 1910.38 applies, the Emergency Action Plan must include procedures for emergency evacuation and exit-route assignments. Maps are commonly used to fulfill this requirement and may also be mandated by local fire and building codes.
Does OSHA approve specific evacuation map software?
No. OSHA does not endorse, approve, or certify any specific software, including OSHA Scan or OSHAmap.com. You are responsible for ensuring your physical routes and maps meet the standards outlined in applicable codes and regulations.
Who should prepare or review an evacuation map?
Federal OSHA does not prescribe one universal map drafter. Adopted fire and building codes or your local AHJ may impose additional preparation, review, or posting requirements. Verify the map against the actual workplace and obtain qualified review when appropriate.
Can I use OSHA Scan for my maps?
OSHA Scan analyzes physical job-site photos for visible safety hazards, but it does not generate evacuation floor plans. That is why we partner with OSHAmap.com, which is purpose-built for drafting floor plans.
Ready to improve your site safety?
Whether you need to draft your facility's exit routes or scan for physical hazards on the floor, we have tools to help.