Emergency escape routes

SOLAS regulation require means of escape so that persons onboard can safely and swiftly escape to the lifeboat and life raft embarkation deck. For this purpose, the following functional requirements shall be met; safe escape routes shall be provided; escape routes shall be maintained in a safe condition, clear of obstacles.

and additional aids for escape shall be provided as necessary to ensure accessibility, clear marking, and adequate design for emergency situations.

Emergency exits must never be blocked in any way.

General requirements:

Unless expressly provided otherwise in this regulation, at least two widely separated and ready means of escape shall be provided from all spaces or groups of spaces.

Lifts shall not be considered as forming one of the means of escape as required by this regulation.

Means of Escape from Ro-Ro spaces, at least two means of escape shall be provided in Ro-Ro spaces where the crew are normally employed. The escape routes shall provide a safe escape to the lifeboat and life raft embarkation decks and shall be located at the fore and aft ends of the space.