DIN ISO 23601:2021-11

Creating and keeping escape and rescue plans up to standard

DIN ISO 23601 specifies requirements for the design and presentation of escape and rescue plans. It helps companies, public institutions and building operators present escape routes, rescue equipment and safety information in a consistent and easy-to-understand way. The standard thus provides the basis for quick orientation in emergencies and complements existing safety and fire protection concepts.

What is DIN ISO 23601 about?

The standard defines the design principles for escape and rescue plans in buildings and built structures. It focuses on the presentation of escape routes, emergency exits and safety-relevant equipment, as well as requirements for safety signs, colour design, readability and information preparation. It is based on the safety signs specified in ISO 7010 and safety way guidance systems according to ISO 16069.

Topics covered

• Design and structure of escape and rescue plans
• Overview and detailed plans of buildings
• Presentation of escape routes, emergency exits and assembly points
• Safety signs according to ISO 7010
• Rules of conduct in the event of fire and accidents
• Colour design, plan scales and readability
• Placement and positioning of escape and rescue plans
• Inspection, updating and maintenance of plans

Practical relevance

Escape and rescue plans are an essential component of preventive fire protection and operational safety management. DIN ISO 23601 provides an internationally recognised basis for this and helps operators make safety information available in a clear, consistent and highly visible form. It helps people find their way quickly in hazardous situations and supports effective evacuations.

The requirements for safety signs, escape route presentation and plan updating are particularly relevant. They support clear orientation in emergencies and the effective implementation of evacuation and safety concepts.

Changes compared with DIN ISO 23601:2010-12

With the 2021 edition, the current ISO 23601:2020 was adopted. The standard was editorially revised and aligned with current international requirements for safety signs and escape and rescue plans. In particular, the references to safety signs according to ISO 7010 and to safety way guidance systems according to ISO 16069 were updated.

Target group

• Safety officers
• Fire safety officers
• Operators of buildings and facilities
• Facility managers
• Architects and specialist planners
• Employers and public institutions
• Occupational safety and evacuation planning specialists
• Companies specialising in safety and fire protection planning

Conclusion

DIN ISO 23601 provides the central basis for creating and updating escape and rescue plans in accordance with the standard. With its requirements for design, safety signs and information preparation, it supports safe orientation in emergencies and contributes to effective evacuation and safety concepts in buildings.

This document replaces DIN ISO 23601:2010-12 .