Keeping people safe in your buildings starts with understanding the difference between everyday evacuation procedures and a formal Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) approved evacuation scheme. This edition breaks down what each requirement means, why both matter, and how supporting documents like Fire Action Notices, fire engineer’s reports, and fire safety systems fit into the bigger picture.
Evacuation Procedures vs. a FENZ‑Approved Evacuation Scheme
Evacuation Procedures
Evacuation procedures are the practical, building‑specific instructions that guide occupants on what to do if they discover a fire, what to do when an alarm activates and how to safely evacuate the building. These procedures cover:
How occupants should respond to alarms
Warden roles and responsibilities
Assembly areas
How to assist visitors or people requiring support
How to report issues or hazards
Every building must have clear, accessible evacuation procedures, regardless of whether a formal scheme is required or not.
FENZ‑Approved Evacuation Scheme
A FENZ‑approved evacuation scheme is a legal requirement for certain buildings under the Fire and Emergency New Zealand Act 2017. A scheme is required when a building meets specific risk thresholds – for example, sleeping uses, large occupant loads, or certain hazardous activities (link to source).
The Fire and Emergency New Zealand (Fire Safety, Evacuation Procedures, and Evacuation Schemes) Regulations 2018 sets out what information must be included in the scheme.
A FENZ‑approved scheme includes:
A documented evacuation plan submitted to FENZ
Details of how building occupants are alerted to a fire emergency
Details of a compliant fire safety systems if installed in the building
A description of evacuation procedures and warden structures
Ongoing maintenance requirements such as six‑monthly trial evacuations or training programmes
Once the scheme is approved, the building owner must maintain the scheme and ensure occupants are trained and informed.
How They Work Together
Evacuation procedures are the day‑to‑day operational instructions.
A FENZ‑approved scheme is the formal, regulated framework that ensures those procedures meet national standards.
Think of it this way:
Procedures = what people do.
Evacuation scheme = the compliance framework that ensures those procedures are correct, tested, and maintained.
Understanding Key Fire Safety Documents and Systems
Fire Action Notice
A Fire Action Notice is the sign displayed throughout a building that tells occupants what to do when the alarm sounds. It typically includes:
What to do if a fire is discovered
How to alert Fire & Emergency NZ
How to safely evacuate the building
Assembly area location
How anyone needing help to evacuate will be assisted
These notices must be permanently installed, easy to read, and consistent with the approved evacuation scheme. Any newly installed notices must meet the requirements of the FENZ Regulation.
Fire Engineer’s Report
A fire engineer’s report (often part of a building consent application) outlines how the building complies with the New Zealand Building Code, particularly Clauses C1–C6. It may include:
Fire design strategy
Fire resistance ratings
Egress design and occupant load calculations
Smoke control measures
Fire safety system requirements
While this report is different from an evacuation scheme, it provides the technical foundation for how the building is designed to perform in a fire.
What Fire Safety Systems Are Designed to Do
Fire safety systems work together to detect fire early, support safe evacuation, and limit fire spread. Each system has a specific purpose:
Fire Alarm System – Detects and alerts.
Designed to detect smoke or heat and warn occupants through audible and/or visual signals. This system initiates the evacuation response and may also trigger other systems such as HVAC and access control systems.
• Manual Call Points – Allow people to raise the alarm.
A manual call point (often called a “break glass”) lets occupants manually activate the building’s fire alarm system. When someone sees smoke or fire, they press or break the front panel to activate the call point. This immediately triggers the alarm system, alerting all occupants and initiating evacuation procedures.
Manual call points are typically located near exits and along escape routes so they can be activated quickly while evacuating.
Smoke Detectors – Provide early warning.
Detect smoke particles and activate the alarm system. Early detection is critical as it gives occupants enough time to evacuate safely.Sprinkler System – Suppresses or controls fire.
Automatically activates when heat reaches a set threshold. Sprinklers control or extinguish the fire at its source, slowing fire growth and reducing smoke production.Emergency Lighting – Guides people to safety.
Illuminates escape routes during a power failure or fire event. This ensures occupants can see exit paths, stairs, and signage even in smoke or darkness.Fire Hose Reels – Allow manual firefighting for small fires.
Intended for trained occupants or wardens to control small, early-stage fires. They are not designed for large or spreading fires.Portable Fire Extinguishers – Provide targeted suppression.
Allow trained users to extinguish small fires before they grow. Different types (e.g., CO₂, dry powder, foam) are suited to different fire classes.Smoke Control Systems – Manage smoke movement.
Includes automatic smoke vents, fans, and pressurisation systems. These systems keep escape routes clear of smoke, improving visibility and reducing inhalation risk.Fire Doors – Contain fire and smoke.
Designed to resist fire for a specified period, slowing its spread between areas. Fire doors must remain closed or self‑closing to function correctly.Signage and Wayfinding – Directs occupants to exits.
Includes illuminated exit signs and directional signage that help people navigate to safe egress routes quickly and confidently.
These systems must be maintained in accordance with the Building Warrant of Fitness (BWOF) regime and support the safe evacuation of occupants.
Each system plays a distinct role, but together they create a layered approach to fire safety that supports both compliance and occupant protection.
Why This Matters for Building Owners and Property Managers
Clear evacuation procedures, compliant fire safety systems, and a maintained FENZ‑approved evacuation scheme work together to:
Protect occupants
Reduce risk and liability
Meet legal obligations
Support smooth emergency response
Ensure your building remains safe and compliant
Safety First supports you through every step - from developing evacuation schemes to training occupants and maintaining compliance.
If you have any queries or would like further information, please contact our Safety First team.