It has been noted numerous times, in multiple studies, that building occupants often ignore or are slow to respond to standard fire alarm sounders: this is ‘bystander apathy’. This article looks at the issue and suggests some solutions when conducting emergency evacuations.
Bystander apathy is a condition where people ignore an emergency. Specifically, they believe someone else will take responsibility so they avoid doing what is necessary in an emergency. It is the social psychological phenomena that can affect the pre-movement phase of an escape. Steve Loughney of Siemens Building Technologies mentions the following in an article about emergency evacuation:
“There are multiple explanations as to why we have a natural tendency to dismiss alarms.”
“People respond to others around them and a collective position often emerges during emergencies.”
“If one person moves, there is a likelihood that others will follow with the reverse also true.”
Click HERE to read more from our friends at Continuity Central.
Learn how to develop your emergency evacuation strategy and effective evacuation plans from Jim Burtles, FBCI, in his landmark book,