Which occupancy is required to have a fire safety and evacuation plan?

A fire safety and evacuation plan is essential for various types of occupancies, particularly those that may pose greater risks in emergencies or have specific safety needs. An ambulatory care facility is one such occupancy that generally requires a fire safety and evacuation plan due to the vulnerable populations it serves, including patients who may be unable to evacuate without assistance and staff who need clear protocols for assisting patients during an emergency.

These plans typically outline procedures for staff training, building evacuation routes, how to communicate alarms, and guidelines for assisting individuals with mobility impairments. The emphasis on clear and organized response protocols is critical in medical settings where the wellbeing of patients is paramount. In contrast, while other occupancy types like residential (R-1) or educational (E) may have their own regulations, the specific needs and risks associated with healthcare environments like ambulatory care facilities necessitate comprehensive planning to ensure safety in events such as fires.