Fire safety is a legal and moral obligation for every business in the UK, but many employers are still unclear on one of the key documents required: the FEEP. So, what is a FEEP and why does it matter?
This blog provides a clear explanation of the Fire Emergency Evacuation Plan (FEEP), its legal importance, what should be included, and how UK employers and duty holders can create and maintain one effectively.
What is a FEEP?
A FEEP, or Fire Emergency Evacuation Plan, is a structured written document outlining the actions that must be taken in the event of a fire or other emergency. It provides guidance to employees and visitors on how to respond safely and efficiently to reduce risks and protect lives.
Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, businesses and public premises are required to have a detailed evacuation plan in place. This means if you’re an employer, owner, or someone in control of premises – known as the ‘responsible person’ – you must ensure a FEEP is not only created but also regularly updated and understood by all occupants.
🔗 Visit our FEEP page for more details
Why is a FEEP Important?
A FEEP serves several vital functions in a workplace:
- Compliance: It ensures that your business meets UK fire safety legislation.
- Clarity: Provides clear instructions to staff on their roles during an emergency.
- Preparedness: Helps prepare teams to respond calmly and effectively to fire incidents.
- Protection: Safeguards employees, visitors, and the public by reducing evacuation time.
What Should Be Included in a FEEP?
A well-prepared FEEP should contain the following elements:
Key Components:
- Fire alarm procedures – how the alarm will be raised and who is responsible.
- Evacuation strategy – including exit routes, assembly points, and signage.
- Roles and responsibilities – such as fire wardens and first-aiders.
- Procedures for vulnerable persons – aligned with PEEPs (Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans).
- Communication systems – how information will be conveyed during an emergency.
- Shutdown procedures – safe shutdown of equipment if time permits.
What Is a FEEP and Who Needs One?
FEEPs are a legal requirement for most non-domestic properties. You need a FEEP if:
- You operate a business or commercial premises.
- You’re a landlord of an HMO or multi-tenant building.
- You’re a school, hospital, or care facility.
- Your premises are open to the public (shops, restaurants, venues).
Duty holders in any organisation must ensure that a FEEP is both created and communicated to all occupants, with fire drills conducted regularly.
What is a FEEP, and How Often Should It Be Reviewed?
Regular reviews are crucial, especially when:
- There are changes to the building layout.
- New staff are onboarded.
- Fire safety equipment is updated.
- Feedback from drills suggests improvements.
An annual review is considered best practice, though higher-risk environments may require more frequent updates.
Benefits of a Professionally Written FEEP
- Tailored to your building and risk level
- Compliant with the latest UK fire regulations
- Incorporates specific needs such as PEEPs
- Reviewed by qualified fire safety professionals
Need help drafting or reviewing your FEEP? Call us on 0300 303 3277 or email customerservice@benfieldfs.co.uk.
Understanding what is a FEEP and implementing it correctly is a cornerstone of UK workplace fire safety. It ensures compliance, improves emergency response, and most importantly, helps protect lives.
For trusted support in drafting a FEEP, including integration with PEEPs and fire policy documentation, visit our FEEP & PEEP Services page.
Contact Benfield Fire Safety Today
Phone: 0300 303 3277
Email: customerservice@benfieldfs.co.uk
What is a FEEP FAQs
Q1: Is a FEEP a legal requirement in the UK?
A1: Yes. Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, all non-domestic premises must have a fire emergency evacuation plan.
Q2: Who is responsible for the FEEP?
A2: The ‘responsible person’ – often an employer, building owner, or facilities manager – must ensure a FEEP is created and maintained.
Q3: What is a FEEP and a PEEP?
A3: A FEEP is the general fire evacuation plan for all building users. A PEEP (Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan) is a tailored plan for individuals with mobility or sensory impairments.
