This Emergency Response and Evacuation SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) sets out what workers do when an alarm sounds or an emergency happens. It covers knowing exits and the muster point, personal emergency evacuation plans, following wardens, closing doors, moving through smoke, when to use an extinguisher, roll calls, staying put until the all-clear and reporting afterwards. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
 
Who it's for
Offices and professional services
Retail stores and shopping centres
Warehouses and factories
Schools, childcare and community organisations
Hospitality venues and accommodation providers
Any workplace that needs a simple evacuation procedure
 
Use it to
Train and induct workers in exactly how you expect the task to be done
Keep a clear reference at the machine, in the vehicle or on site
Record competency with the built-in sign-off
Show clients, insurers and auditors your safe work methods are written down
 
What this SOP covers
Smoke inhalation, heat and flames
Structural damage and falling debris
Blocked or unfamiliar evacuation routes
Crushing in crowded stairwells and doorways
Slips and falls while evacuating, especially on stairs
Chemicals, gas leaks or fumes released in an incident
Electric shock from damaged wiring or switchboards
Fighting a fire without training or beyond its early stage
 
What's included
8 pre-operational checks, from knowing your nearest exit and muster point to alarm signals, clear routes, wardens and PEEPs
A 10-step evacuation procedure covering stopping work, no lifts, helping others, closing doors, smoke, fire extinguishers and roll calls
Guidance on isolating gas or power only when trained and safe, and keeping mains switches, hydrant boosters and fire panels clear
5 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for blocked routes, missing persons, uncertain alarms and a second emergency during evacuation
PPE checklist and a list of related documents
Competency acknowledgement and worker sign-off
Space for your logo, SOP number, version and review dates
 
Why use this template
Saves hours compared with writing an SOP from a blank page
Written as clear, numbered steps that workers can follow on the job
Fully editable, so you can match it to your equipment, site and how your team works
The competency sign-off gives you a training record from day one
 
How it works
Buy online and download straight away. You'll also get an email with your link.
Add your logo, company name, SOP number and dates.
Check it suits your equipment and site, and edit anything you need to.
Train your workers and have them sign the competency acknowledgement.
 
Need more than one SOP?
This SOP is also included in the Ultimate Agriculture & Farming SOP Bundle, Ultimate Air Conditioning & Refrigeration SOP Bundle, Ultimate Audio Visual SOP Bundle, Ultimate Automotive & Mechanical SOP Bundle, Ultimate Bricklaying & Masonry SOP Bundle, Ultimate Building & Construction SOP Bundle, Ultimate Carpentry SOP Bundle, Ultimate Civil & Earthworks SOP Bundle, Ultimate Cleaning SOP Bundle, Ultimate Concreting SOP Bundle, Ultimate Electrical, HVAC & Solar SOP Bundle, Ultimate Fencing SOP Bundle, Ultimate Fire Services SOP Bundle, Ultimate Gardening & Landscaping SOP Bundle, Ultimate Hire Services SOP Bundle, Ultimate Hospitality & Events SOP Bundle, Ultimate Internal Fit-out SOP Bundle, Ultimate Joinery & Cabinet Making SOP Bundle, Ultimate Manufacturing & Industrial SOP Bundle, Ultimate Painting SOP Bundle, Ultimate Pest Control SOP Bundle, Ultimate Plumbing SOP Bundle, Ultimate Professional & Business Services SOP Bundle, Ultimate Property Maintenance SOP Bundle, Ultimate Retail & Wholesale SOP Bundle, Ultimate Roofing SOP Bundle, Ultimate Security Services SOP Bundle, Ultimate Shopfitting SOP Bundle, Ultimate Steel & Metal Fabrication SOP Bundle, Ultimate Tiling & Waterproofing SOP Bundle and Ultimate Transport & Warehousing SOP Bundle. Each bundle is $197, which works out much cheaper than buying SOPs one at a time.
 
Common questions
Does it replace our emergency plan?
No. It covers what workers do in an emergency. Your site emergency plan, warden appointments and duties, and business continuity arrangements are set out separately.
Can anyone use a fire extinguisher?
No. Only workers trained, assessed and authorised may use one, and only on a small, early-stage fire with a clear escape route behind them. If in doubt, they evacuate.
Can I change it?
Yes. It's a Microsoft Word file, so you can add, remove or change any step, check or hazard, and add your own logo and details.
Does it suit my state?
Yes. It's written to the model WHS laws and suits all states and territories, including Victoria under the OHS Act and Regulations.
What if it doesn't suit my work?
You're covered by our 30-day money-back guarantee if it isn't fit for purpose.