Flugtveje

Flugtveje, or escape routes, are the paths occupants should follow to leave a building safely during emergencies. They connect occupied spaces to exterior areas or other safe locations, and are designed to minimize exposure to hazards such as smoke, heat, and flames.

Typical components include exits, corridors, stairways, doors, and safety signage. They must remain unobstructed and well lit, with surfaces that resist fire and slipping hazards. Emergency lighting, exit signs, and directional indicators help guide people to safety.

Design and regulation focus on ensuring reachability and capacity. Key considerations include travel distance to an exit, the number and width of exits, fire resistance of walls and doors, and the ability to withstand crowd movement. Doors on escape routes should open easily and, where required, swing in the direction of egress.

Signage uses internationally recognized symbols and green colouring. In many jurisdictions, doors on exits use panic hardware and should not be locked or obstructed during use. Regular inspection and maintenance are required to ensure lighting, signage, and hardware function in an evacuation.

Practices vary by country and building type, from offices and schools to hospitals and transit hubs. Evacuation plans, drills, and muster points support orderly exits and can reduce harm when an incident occurs.