Keeping your evacuation diagrams accurate isn’t just best practice, it’s essential for compliance under AS 3745‑2010 and Western Australia’s workplace regulations. Even if your facility hasn’t changed, a five‑year desktop audit ensures everyone can find their way out swiftly in an emergency. Below, we cover the why, the how, and where to learn more on our site.
1. Legal & Standards Context
AS 3745‑2010 (Planning for emergencies in facilities)
– Requires diagrams to carry a “reviewed on” date and be validated periodically for correct symbology and exit mapping.WHS (General) Regulations 2022 (WA) & transitional OSH Regs 1996
– Mandate an emergency plan with up‑to‑date evacuation procedures and clearly displayed diagrams.
For full details on our end‑to‑end process, see our Evacuation Diagram Audit service page.
For full details on our end‑to‑end process, see our Evacuation Diagram Audit service page
2. Why Five Years Is Optimal
Layout Changes
– Renovations, new walls or relocated equipment can make older routes obsolete.Staff Turnover & Wayfinding
– New team members rely heavily on “You Are Here” maps they’ve never seen.Industry Consensus
– While legislation doesn’t specify an interval, five years is widely accepted in fire‑safety circles.Subtle Wear & Tear
– Faded prints or minor symbol inaccuracies can accumulate without a formal review.
Learn how to spot an outdated map in our 5 Signs Your Evacuation Diagrams Are Out of Date post.
3. Benefits of a Five‑Year Review
Accuracy & Clarity
Guarantees exits, extinguishers and assembly points are correctly shown.Regulatory Confidence
Shows WorkSafe WA and insurers you’re on top of your emergency‑planning obligations.Cost‑Effectiveness
Prevents last‑minute redraws, rush fees and compliance notices.Peace of Mind
Confirms your people have reliable guidance when seconds count.
4. CMG’s Four‑Step Audit Process
Desktop Review
– We assess your existing diagrams and floor plans against AS 3745 and the BCA.Optional On‑Site Inspection
– Our technician verifies exit routes, equipment locations and signage in person.Compliance Report & Date Update
– You receive an annotated report, plus a refreshed “reviewed on” date—even if no changes were necessary.Diagram Refresh & Delivery
– Choose laminated prints (A2/A3/A4), framed displays or digital PDFs..
5. Quick‑Win Checklist
Schedule your next review at least five years from the last dated audit.
Update diagrams immediately after any renovation or reconfiguration.
Display maps at every major exit and in common areas.
Archive audit reports for regulators and insurers.
Do it right with CMG Fire and Safety Services
To maintain the highest standard of fire safety in your workplace, enlist the help of CMG Fire and Safety Services. As a specialist in emergency management and fire safety, we offer a broad range of solutions, including OH&S services, fire warden training, emergency evacuation training, evacuation diagrams and more. Call us today on 1300 355 686 to discuss your fire safety needs.