How Many Emergency Evacuation Maps Do You Need and Where Should They Go?
How many evacuation maps do you need? Use occupancy zones and decision points to place maps where workers and visitors can find exits fast.
Published: July 13, 2026 · By Steven Brooks
Updated: August 9, 2026
Category: Industrial Safety
Frequently Asked Questions
Does OSHA require a specific number of evacuation maps?
No fixed map count is usually specified. The practical requirement is that employees can evacuate safely and understand the exit routes and procedures in your Emergency Action Plan.
Where should evacuation maps be posted in a plant or warehouse?
Post them where people enter, gather, pause, or choose between routes. Common locations include entrances, break areas, corridors, production-floor entry points, offices, and major intersections.
How do I know if I need more than one evacuation map?
If your facility has multiple work areas, different exit choices, long travel paths, or visitors unfamiliar with the building, you likely need multiple maps. Each occupied zone should show the nearest usable exit routes and muster point.
What information should be on an evacuation map?
A useful map should show a You Are Here marker, primary and alternate exit routes, final exits, and the assembly or muster point. It should also use clear symbols and match the written Emergency Action Plan.
When should evacuation maps be updated?
Update them whenever the layout, exit access, occupancy, or muster strategy changes. Renovations, line moves, storage changes, and new partitions are all good reasons to review and revise posted maps.