Fire Safety Plans (MAP) for Care Homes
What changes when occupants can't evacuate on their own.
Why a care home is different
In a care home, many residents can't evacuate on their own in a fire. That's why the MAP for these spaces usually relies on horizontal evacuation — moving people to a safe compartment within the same building — rather than assuming everyone can get outside in time.
This is one of the space types where inspections and requirements tend to be strictest, precisely because of how vulnerable the occupants are.
When this usually becomes urgent
- Opening a new care home or continuing-care unit
- A failed inspection that flagged issues with the horizontal evacuation plan or fire compartmentation
- A rise in the number of residents, or a change to the building's structure
- Renewal or update of the MAP, often required more frequently than for other space types
What usually gets assessed
Fire compartmentation between zones of the building, fire-resistant doors, staff training to support a horizontal evacuation, and an emergency plan that accounts for most residents needing help to move. The exact risk category is set by a técnico autor, based on the number and mobility of residents.
Need to sort this out?
Frequently asked questions
What is the "horizontal evacuation" mentioned for care homes?
It means moving residents to a nearby fire compartment on the same floor, rather than having them go down stairs or leave the building — more realistic when many can't move on their own.
Does a small home, with few residents, have the same requirements?
Requirements depend on the risk category, which accounts for the number and mobility of residents, not just the building's size. Only a técnico autor can confirm the category that applies to your case.
This guide is general orientation and doesn't replace legal or technical advice. Your building's exact risk category and obligations are determined by a técnico autor registered with ANEPC.