Understand the difference between evacuation diagrams, hydrant block plans, sprinkler block plans and fire alarm or zone block plans.
This practical guide explains what each plan is used for, the information normally required to prepare it and the common issues that delay review, installation or handover.
Block plans and evacuation diagrams serve different purposes
Although the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they are not the same document. An evacuation diagram is primarily an emergency-planning aid for occupants. Hydrant, sprinkler and fire alarm or zone block plans provide system information for firefighters, technicians, building managers and other authorised users.
The correct plan type, content, location and material should be confirmed from the applicable Standard, approved project documents and installed system—not selected from appearance alone.
Choose the correct plan type
Evacuation diagrams
Used to help occupants understand emergency exits, evacuation routes, assembly areas and relevant emergency equipment. Each displayed diagram must be prepared for its viewing location, including the correct orientation and “You Are Here” position.
Fire hydrant block plans
Summarise the installed hydrant system and relevant site information. The final plan must reflect the approved and as-installed system, including the details nominated by the applicable project documentation.
Sprinkler block plans
Provide a clear overview of the sprinkler installation, protected areas and system information required for the relevant installation. Inputs should come from current fire-services drawings and verified system details.
Fire alarm and zone block plans
Help identify alarm zones, building areas and the relationship to the fire indicator or related panel. The drawing must match the final zoning and panel information rather than an early architectural layout.
Common Australian Standards associated with these plans
- AS 3745 — planning for emergencies in facilities, including evacuation diagrams.
- AS 2419.1 — fire hydrant installations.
- AS 2118.1 — automatic fire sprinkler systems.
- AS 1670.1 — fire detection, warning, control and intercom systems.
A newer published edition does not automatically prove that it applies to every existing building or project. Check the adopted NCC requirements, approval timing and the editions nominated in the approved documents.
What information is normally needed?
The source documents depend on the plan type. Providing current, coordinated information at the start reduces assumptions, revisions and handover delays.
- Current architectural floor and site plans
- Relevant hydraulic, sprinkler or fire-alarm drawings
- Approved fire-safety schedule or project sign schedule where applicable
- As-installed equipment locations and system details
- Building name, address, level and panel or booster location
- Required plan size, substrate, finish and fixing method
- Clear mark-ups for any changes made after the latest drawing issue
Materials, updates and installation
Material selection
Available materials can include white Alupanel, brushed aluminium and engraved Traffolyte, depending on the plan type, environment and project specification. Confirm indoor or outdoor exposure, mounting surface and expected service life.
Orientation and location
Evacuation diagrams require location-specific orientation. Fire-system block plans must be positioned where required for the relevant panel, booster, valve group or other nominated location.
Proof and approval
Check names, addresses, labels, equipment, routes, zones and “You Are Here” markers carefully. Approval should be based on current project information, not only visual appearance.
Future updates
Review plans when layouts, exits, assembly areas, equipment, zones or system arrangements change. Remove superseded plans so conflicting information is not left on site.
Common block-plan and evacuation-diagram problems
- The plan is based on an outdated drawing revision.
- One evacuation diagram is copied to several locations without changing orientation.
- “You Are Here” is missing, inaccurate or positioned for the wrong viewing point.
- Equipment, zones, valves, panels or routes do not match the installed condition.
- The building name, address, level or system identification is incomplete.
- The material or mounting method is unsuitable for the location.
- The proof is approved without review by the person responsible for the project information.
Frequently asked questions
Can you prepare a block plan from a PDF?
Yes. Suitable architectural and fire-services PDFs can be used as source information. The quality, currency and completeness of the supplied drawings affect the design work and number of revisions required.
Can you redraw an old or damaged plan?
Often, yes. A clear photograph, scan or PDF can be assessed for restoration. Any changes to the building or installed system should be supported by current information rather than copied from the old plan.
Does every location use the same evacuation diagram?
No. The diagram must be oriented for its displayed position and show the correct “You Are Here” location. Multiple viewing positions generally require location-specific versions.
Can I order printing without design?
Yes, where suitable print-ready artwork is supplied. Design-only, print-only and complete design-and-print options are available for many plan types.
Need a new, updated or restored block plan?
Send the current drawings, existing plan, photographs or marked-up information. We can review the available files and quote for design, printing and installation where required.
