A map is one way to communicate
A printed plan can be helpful to one person and inaccessible to another. Consider sight, hearing, mobility, understanding and language. Large text and strong contrast can improve a drawing, but cannot make a visual map a complete solution for every visitor.
Home Office means-of-escape guidance explains that evacuation arrangements need to cover people likely to use the premises, including disabled people, and how the arrangements will be implemented. Begin with practical needs rather than adding an accessibility symbol at the end.
Show agreed arrangements accurately
Only mark an accessible route, refuge or evacuation facility after confirming its purpose in the actual arrangements. A symbol cannot establish that a route suits everyone or that assistance is available.
Do not label a refuge as a final assembly point or imply someone can simply be left there without an agreed means of completing evacuation. Where assistance or a personal emergency evacuation plan is needed, working procedures and trained support matter as much as a drawing.
Design for legibility
Use plain language and avoid relying on colour alone. Pair a blue location marker with an explicit 'You are here' legend entry. Test the print at normal reading distance, not just at high magnification on screen.
Removing irrelevant detail can be more useful than shrinking labels. Keep text away from arrows and make sure the base drawing does not compete with the information over it. A larger portrait sheet may help where space allows.
Keep personal information private
Publicly displayed diagrams should not identify individual guests or disclose medical or support needs. Keep personal assistance arrangements in appropriate private management records. Public information can explain how to request assistance without naming people who need it.
This is general communication guidance focused on England, not legal advice or a substitute for assessing and implementing suitable arrangements. Consult official guidance and obtain competent premises-specific advice when needed.
Official sources & further reading
- Home Office: Means of escape for disabled people
- Home Office: Means of escape for disabled people, full guide
Source-linked general guidance, not legal advice. Check current official guidance and obtain premises-specific advice where needed.