- Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005
- BS 9999: Fire safety in the design, management and use of buildings
Not everyone can evacuate a building without assistance. GEEPs and PEEPs are the two planning tools that ensure everyone — including those who need help — can reach safety. This guide explains the difference, grounded in the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and BS 9999.
What is a GEEP?
A General Emergency Evacuation Plan (GEEP) sets out the overall evacuation arrangements for a premises — escape routes, assembly points, staff responsibilities and communication. It applies to the building and its general population.
What is a PEEP?
A Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan (PEEP) is a tailored plan for an individual who may need assistance to evacuate — for example due to mobility, sensory or cognitive impairment. It sets out the specific support, equipment and staff assistance required.
When are they needed?
- A GEEP should be in place for all relevant premises
- A PEEP is required where any occupant or regular visitor may need assistance to escape
- In residential care and supported living, person-centred evacuation planning is particularly important
LRMS support
We can help you develop GEEPs and PEEPs as part of emergency planning, integrated with your fire risk assessment findings and evacuation strategy.
Cited Sources & Official References
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a GEEP and a PEEP?
A GEEP (General Emergency Evacuation Plan) covers the overall evacuation arrangements for a premises and its general population. A PEEP (Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan) is a tailored plan for a specific individual who may need assistance to evacuate.
When is a PEEP required?
A PEEP is required where any occupant or regular visitor may need assistance to evacuate — for example due to mobility, sensory or cognitive impairment. In residential care and supported living, person-centred evacuation planning is particularly important.
Does every premises need a GEEP?
A GEEP should be in place for all relevant premises. It sets out the overall evacuation arrangements — escape routes, assembly points, staff responsibilities and communication.
About Louanne Lanahan
Founder & Director · CMIOSH · OSHCR · MIFSM · AIFireE · NFRAR
Chartered Safety Practitioner (CMIOSH), registered on OSHCR, MIFSM, AIFireE, and NFRAR. Founder and Director of Lanahan Risk Management Services Ltd.