On 2nd December 2024, the UK government released its response to the Emergency Evacuation Information Sharing Plus (EEIS+) consultation, introducing new requirements for Residential Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs). These policies are designed to ensure that individuals who require assistance during emergencies, particularly in multi-occupancy residential buildings, have tailored evacuation plans in place. The changes mark a significant step towards improving fire safety for vulnerable residents, such as those with mobility issues, sensory impairments, or cognitive disabilities.
In this blog, we’ll explore what these new PEEP policies entail, why they were introduced, and how building owners, managers, and residents can ensure compliance.
What Are Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs)?
A Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan (PEEP) is a customised evacuation strategy designed to assist individuals who may face challenges leaving a building quickly and safely during an emergency, such as a fire. PEEPs are tailored to address the specific needs of each person, considering factors like mobility, sensory impairments (e.g., hearing or vision loss), or cognitive difficulties (e.g., dementia).
These plans outline:
- Specific evacuation procedures for the individual.
- Assistance required, such as physical support or the use of evacuation equipment.
- Designated helpers or staff responsible for assisting during emergencies.
- Communication methods suited to the individual’s needs, such as visual alarms or vibrating alerts for those with hearing impairments.
While PEEPs have long been standard practice in workplaces and public buildings under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, the focus is now shifting to ensure they are consistently applied in residential buildings, particularly multi-occupancy settings.
Why Were the New Residential PEEP Policies Introduced?
The new PEEP policies stem from concerns raised in the aftermath of tragic fire incidents in the UK, particularly the Grenfell Tower fire in 2017. Investigations revealed significant gaps in evacuation planning for vulnerable residents in high-rise residential buildings. Many residents were unaware of evacuation procedures or lacked support, leading to preventable fatalities.
The EEIS+ consultation gathered feedback from fire safety experts, building managers, and disability advocacy groups, highlighting the need for a more robust framework to protect at-risk residents.
Key Motivations Behind the Policy Changes:
- Protecting Vulnerable Populations:
Ensuring that individuals with disabilities or mobility issues have a clear and effective evacuation plan tailored to their specific needs. - Clarifying Responsibilities:
Establishing clear guidelines for Responsible Persons (RPs), such as building owners, landlords, and property managers, to identify and support residents who require assistance. - Improving Communication with Emergency Services:
Mandating better information sharing between building management and Fire and Rescue Services to ensure first responders are aware of vulnerable residents in emergencies.
Key Components of the New Residential PEEP Policies
1. Mandatory Implementation in Certain Residential Buildings
The new policies specify that PEEPs must be implemented in specific types of residential buildings:
- High-Rise Residential Buildings (Over 18m):
All residential buildings exceeding 18 metres in height must have PEEPs in place for residents who require assistance. - Mid-Rise Buildings (11-18m) with Simultaneous Evacuation Strategies:
Buildings in this height range that use simultaneous evacuation strategies (where all residents evacuate at once, rather than a stay-put policy) are also required to develop PEEPs.
While the focus is on these building types, the government encourages all multi-occupancy residential buildings to consider adopting similar practices to enhance safety.
2. Identifying and Engaging Vulnerable Residents
The new policy places a legal obligation on Responsible Persons (RPs)—such as building owners, landlords, and property managers—to identify residents who may need assistance during an evacuation.
Steps for Identification:
- Engagement with Residents:
RPs must take reasonable steps to engage with all residents to determine who may require support in an emergency. This could involve surveys, direct communication, or regular tenant meetings. - Voluntary Disclosure:
Residents are encouraged, but not required, to disclose if they need assistance. The policy balances the need for safety with respecting residents’ privacy.
3. Developing and Implementing PEEPs
Once vulnerable residents are identified, RPs must work collaboratively with them to create tailored evacuation plans. Each plan should include:
- Detailed Evacuation Procedures:
Clear instructions on how the resident will be evacuated, including any specialised equipment or assistance required. - Assignment of Helpers:
Designating specific staff members, family, or volunteers to assist during evacuations. This ensures that support is consistent and reliable. - Regular Reviews:
PEEPs must be reviewed periodically, especially if a resident’s health or mobility changes, or if building layouts and fire safety systems are modified.
4. Person-Centred Fire Risk Assessments
The new PEEP policies require person-centred fire risk assessments to be conducted in residential buildings. This means that, beyond general building safety measures, assessments must take into account the unique needs of individual residents.
What Does This Include?
- Identifying Hazards:
Assessing specific risks within the resident’s living space, such as blocked exits, unsuitable alarms, or difficulties accessing stairwells. - Evaluating Evacuation Routes:
Ensuring that escape routes are accessible for individuals with mobility aids or those who require assistance. - Mitigating Risks:
Implementing additional safety measures, such as installing visual or vibrating alarms, widening doorways, or providing evacuation chairs.
5. Sharing Information with Fire and Rescue Services
A crucial component of the new policy is the requirement for RPs to share information with local Fire and Rescue Services about residents who may need evacuation assistance.
How Will This Work?
- Maintaining Up-to-Date Records:
RPs must keep accurate records of residents requiring PEEPs and ensure this information is easily accessible during emergencies. - Providing Information to Emergency Responders:
In the event of a fire, Fire and Rescue Services must be promptly informed of the locations and needs of vulnerable residents to prioritise their evacuation.
What Are the Responsibilities of Building Owners and Managers?
The introduction of Residential PEEPs places new legal responsibilities on those managing multi-occupancy buildings. Here’s what building owners and managers need to do:
1. Proactively Engage with Residents
- Inform residents about the availability of PEEPs and encourage those who need assistance to participate.
- Respect privacy and ensure that any information gathered is handled sensitively and in compliance with data protection laws.
2. Conduct Regular Fire Risk Assessments
- Ensure that fire risk assessments are not only building-wide but also person-centred for residents needing additional support.
3. Provide Staff Training
- Train staff and designated helpers on how to assist residents during evacuations and how to operate any specialised evacuation equipment.
4. Maintain and Review PEEPs
- Regularly update PEEPs to reflect any changes in residents’ health, building layout, or fire safety protocols.
How Will These Changes Improve Fire Safety?
The introduction of Residential PEEPs marks a significant improvement in fire safety for vulnerable residents. By ensuring that tailored evacuation plans are in place, the new policy aims to:
- Reduce the risk of injury or death during fires for those unable to evacuate independently.
- Enhance communication between building managers and emergency responders, leading to more efficient and effective evacuations.
- Promote accountability among building owners and managers, ensuring they are proactive in safeguarding all residents.
A Step Forward in Protecting Vulnerable Residents
The new Residential PEEP policies, announced in December 2024, represent a crucial advancement in fire safety for vulnerable individuals living in multi-occupancy buildings. By mandating tailored evacuation plans and improving coordination with Fire and Rescue Services, these policies aim to prevent tragedies and ensure that everyone, regardless of their abilities, has a safe and reliable evacuation plan.