This master’s thesis presents an analysis of evacuation time in an educational facility using the Pathfinder computer simulation program. The aim of the research was to examine the impact of various factors on the evacuation time of occupants within different spaces. The analysis covered three different floor plans: a classroom, the ground floor and a kitchen.
Multiple simulations were carried out for each floor plan. The focus was primarily on factors such as the arrangement of interior furnishings, exit width, phased evacuation, increased occupant density and the number of exits within a single space. The results were presented in tables, graphs and visualizations of the evacuation process, enabling a clear comparison between simulations.
The results showed that shorter evacuation times are primarily achieved through wider exits, a greater number of exits and proper arrangement of interior furnishings. Phased evacuation significantly increased the evacuation time. Increasing occupant density in the space, however, did not lead to a notable change in evacuation time.
The findings confirm that well considered spatial design, adequate exit width and an appropriate number of exits can significantly improve the safety and efficiency of evacuations in educational facilities. The results of the research are particularly useful for optimizing existing floor plans and for the preparation of evacuation plans and drills.
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