Rescue plan is a cornerstone of property’s safety, and a designated person is responsible for its preparation and maintenance. This role is not merely administrative – it directly impacts how well residents, employees, and visitors understand safety procedures and know how to act in emergencies. A well-crafted, regularly updated plan can prevent hazards and even save lives. But what should the responsible person particularly keep in mind when creating the plan and communicating it? In this blog, we provide practical tips to help make the rescue plan as useful and effective as possible.
Fulfill legal requirements and tailor the plan to the site
Legislation sets certain requirements for the content of the rescue plan, and it is the responsibility of the designated person to ensure that all necessary information is included and kept up to date. The rescue plan must contain at least the following:
- Risk assessment of the property and the results of hazard evaluation
- Description of the building’s and premises’ safety arrangements
- Instructions for preventing hazards and acting in emergencies
- Summary of other preparedness measures specific to the site
During the risk assessment, it’s essential to identify the most significant risks in the property and define control measures for them. These risks may relate to structural features, the intended use of the premises, or operational risk factors such as chemical handling or the number of occupants.
Use floor plans and visual markings
The clarity of the rescue plan is just as important as its content. It should be easy to understand how to act safely within the building and where to find safety equipment. Using floor plans greatly improves this. Up-to-date layouts showing escape routes, fire extinguishing equipment, and assembly points provide a clear overview of safety arrangements. The markings must be easily interpretable so they serve all users – not just experts.
You can also take advantage of digital tools such as Codeax®SAFE, which allows dynamic updates to floor plans and the inclusion of additional information like user instructions or contact details for responsible persons directly in the images.
Make the rescue plan accessible and keep it updated
Rescue plan is of no use if people don’t know about it or if it’s outdated. It must be accessible to property users, for example in digital format or as a printed version in visible locations throughout the building. It’s good practice to regularly review key parts of the plan during trainings and drills so everyone knows how to act in different situations.
Staying up to date is crucial – the plan should be reviewed at least once a year and updated whenever changes occur, such as renovations, alterations in use of space, or new safety arrangements. A plan that’s easy to update and access ensures that safety information remains current and available to all users.
Responsible person’s crucial role in ensuring safety
Rescue plan is not just a mandatory document – it’s a vital tool that improves property’s safety and readiness for emergencies. The responsible person must ensure that the plan is up-to-date, clear, and accessible. Visual elements, clear instructions, and regular communication improve the usability of the plan and help everyone act safely in both everyday situations and emergencies.
