Guidance on Fire Evacuation Protocols
The College requires sedation facility permit holders to have a fire evacuation protocol for their dental facility. A fire evacuation protocol outlines the steps to activate emergency services and ensure the safe evacuation of staff, patients and visitors in the event of a fire or similar emergency.
Dental facility owners may have a separate responsibility to develop and implement a Fire Safety Plan under Section 2.8 of the Ontario Fire Code or municipal by-laws. A comprehensive Fire Safety Plan will satisfy the College’s requirement for a sedation permit holder to have a fire evacuation protocol.
Being prepared for emergencies—including fire—is an important part of protecting the safety of everyone who enters a dental facility. The College encourages all dental facilities to develop and implement a Fire Safety Plan or fire evacuation protocol, even if it is not explicitly required by the College, Ontario Building Code or municipal by-laws.
Below is information developed by the College to support dentists in drafting and implementing a fire evacuation protocol or Fire Safety Plan. Note, the College only reviews fire evacuation protocols for facilities that hold a sedation facility permit.
What to consider when developing a fire evacuation protocol
When drafting a fire evacuation protocol or Fire Safety Plan for your dental facility, we suggest you consider the following questions—and any other factors relevant to your specific dental practice—to ensure the safety of patients, staff and visitors:
Does your building or complex already have a Fire Safety Plan?
If so, review it closely to ensure it adequately addresses the needs of your dental facility.
Do you provide sedation services?
- Could a sedated patient be non‑ambulatory during an evacuation? If yes, ensure there is a plan to support the safe evacuation of the patient.
- Could a sedated patient require airway support? If yes, ensure there is a plan to safely evacuate the patient with the necessary equipment and emergency drugs (e.g., portable suction).
How will you support the safe evacuation of patients who need extra assistance?
This includes children, elderly patients and individuals with disabilities.
Has a safe, designated meeting place been identified?
All staff should know where to gather after evacuating.
Are team roles and responsibilities clearly assigned?
Identify who is responsible for:
- Calling 911
- Sounding an alarm
- Clearing operatories
- Turning off gas systems
- Transporting patients and emergency equipment
- Conducting a roll call at the meeting point
Is there a clear map or visual aid outlining evacuation routes?
Ensure exit routes and stairwells are clearly marked, especially if elevators may be unavailable during an emergency.
Are there additional resources available?
Additional guidance or fire‑preparedness support may be available in your municipality.