Evacuation maps can be illustrated and posted in a building in a number of ways. Many organizations expect this to be a simple task and try to DIY the illustration and posting of their evacuation maps. However, the people in charge of this task are not always well-versed in the local and national codes, standards, and best practices for safety map floor plans. Not knowing the best practices for proper evacuation map orientation could lead to confusion at the worst possible time.
For clear, intuitive understanding of evacuation routes, safety maps should be oriented so that the top of the map aligns with the direction the map reader is facing. For larger buildings with multiple posted maps, this could mean developing 4 or more versions of your evacuation map.
How to Orient a Map For Evacuation or Wayfinding
Whether you are using a map for evacuation or wayfinding, having the map in the proper orientation makes it easier and faster to use. In the case of an emergency, you may not have any time to waste when looking for the nearest exit. Proper signage and clear, readable evacuation maps can be critical to the safety of employees and visitors.
People often think that the top of a map should align with the cardinal direction of north, but that is not how humans intuitively use maps. We are wired to understand that the top of the map aligns with the direction we’re facing. This means that if you are in a room with four walls, and you post a safety map on each of the walls, each map should have a different orientation.
Why is it so Important to Properly Orient Evacuation Maps?
In the event of an emergency, your evacuation maps need to be as easy and quick to read as possible. You also want to make sure your occupants walk away from your maps being guided in the correct direction for timely egress.
Without proper orientation of evacuation maps, our brains add in the complex step of mentally rotating the map in order to read it. During the panic and chaos of an emergency, this can be even more difficult. A wrong turn means longer egress routes or even occupants getting lost in your building at a time when each second counts.
Depending on your occupancy type, building location, and building type, proper evacuation map orientation may be required by local fire codes. Code compliance with federal and local regulations is often overlooked by organizations who illustrate their own safety maps.
Best Practices for Evacuation Map Orientation and More
Creating an evacuation map often sounds simple—until you understand the complexities of all the details involved. To create a map that is easy to read, with clear emergency information and evacuation routes, follow these best practices:
- Create four maps, one in each orientation. Buildings with hallways or wings at an angle may need additional maps.
- Ensure all text, images and symbols are appropriately rotated for each orientation.
- Each posted evacuation map must include a “you are here” element.
- Post a primary and secondary egress route from the “you are here” element.
- Use universally recognizable symbols for safety features like fire pulls, fire extinguishers, first aid kits and more.
- Learn where to post emergency evacuation maps. Target highly visible, high-traffic areas.
- Order professionally made safety maps from industry experts to ensure your evacuation maps are compliant with safety codes. Experienced map designers will also ensure proper safety map orientation, using simple and clear illustration techniques.
Request a Quote from Building Maps: Your Safety Experts
Building Maps is the industry leader in creating and maintaining safety maps for organizations like yours across the U.S. Our entire team is trained and well-versed in NFPA, ICC, and OSHA codes and standards. We’re not just illustrators—we’re building safety experts.
When you team up with Building Maps, you can be confident that every evacuation map we draw is properly oriented and ready to post in your designated locations.
If you’d like the help of a professional safety map illustration service, contact us today for a quick and free quote and have our maps included in your emergency action plan!
About the Author: Tony Jones, CFPS, is the owner and founder of Building Maps. He is a fire evacuation mapping and code compliance expert. Tony holds his work to the highest standard because he knows “it’s not just a map, it’s about saving lives.”
