Fire Safety & Evacuation Plans
Custom fire safety and evacuation plans for any workplace — ensuring compliance with OHS Act obligations and your duty to protect employees, visitors and occupants in an emergency.
What This Service Covers
Every employer in South Africa has a legal duty to prepare for fire and other emergencies — and that preparation must be specific to the premises, its occupants and the hazards present. Mygacare compiles workplace-specific fire safety and evacuation plans that satisfy the Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993 and applicable fire legislation, covering evacuation routes, assembly points, fire fighting equipment and the appointment of fire marshals.
Scope of Work
- Site-specific fire risk assessment identifying ignition sources, fuel loads and escape route adequacy
- Custom Fire Safety and Evacuation Plan for the premises
- Evacuation route mapping and assembly point designation
- Fire fighting equipment schedule and inspection register
- Fire marshal appointments and training
- Emergency contact directory and notification procedures
- Integration with the broader Health & Safety File and emergency procedures
- Periodic plan reviews and drill coordination to test emergency readiness
Legislative Relevance
- OHS Act 85 of 1993 — General Safety Regulations (emergency preparedness requirements for all employers)
- National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act 103 of 1977 — fire safety requirements
- Applicable local authority fire by-laws and fire safety requirements
- General Administrative Regulations — emergency preparedness obligations on employers
Who This Is For
- Any employer with premises and a legal duty to prepare an emergency evacuation plan
- Businesses in new or refurbished premises without a current fire safety plan
- Facilities with complex layouts, multiple tenants or vulnerable occupants requiring detailed planning
- Organisations across any industry — offices, warehouses, retail, hospitality, healthcare and more
Fire & Evacuation Plans — FAQs
Is a fire evacuation plan a legal requirement?
Yes. The General Safety Regulations issued under the OHS Act require every employer to make arrangements for emergency situations including fire. Combined with local authority fire by-laws and the National Building Regulations, most workplaces have a clear legal obligation to maintain a site-specific fire safety and evacuation plan.
How often should we run an evacuation drill?
Most guidance recommends at least one evacuation drill per year, with higher-risk or complex facilities benefiting from more frequent drills. Mygacare can coordinate and document drills as part of your ongoing compliance programme, and assist with post-drill debriefs to improve evacuation readiness.
Does the fire plan need to be updated when we change our layout?
Yes — your fire safety and evacuation plan must reflect the actual layout, hazards and occupancy of your current premises. Any significant changes to the building or operations should trigger a plan review. We can schedule periodic reviews to keep your plan current and compliant.
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Learn moreLet’s keep your project compliant and your team safe.
Speak to our team about your project and get a tailored plan for your Health & Safety compliance — no obligation.