Self-Protection Measures (MAP): What Are They, What Do They Include, and Who Is Required to Have Them?

Do you need to prepare or update your company's Self-Protection Measures? Discover our Self-Protection Measures service.

Ensuring fire safety in a commercial space, office, factory or public building goes far beyond having fire extinguishers hanging on the walls. Portuguese legislation requires organizations to implement, and keep up to date, clear procedures for prevention and action in an emergency.

This is exactly where Self-Protection Measures (MAP).

What are MAP and what do they consist of?

The Self-Protection Measures are a set of actions and measures aimed at preventing and controlling fire risks, protecting people and property, and ensuring a fast and effective response in any emergency.

Depending on the Occupancy Type (UT) and the Risk Category of the building, the complexity of the MAP varies but, in general, they consist of the following elements:

1. Preventive Measures

They take the form of prevention procedures or prevention plans, depending on the building's risk category.

They include the day-to-day operating rules for the space (care with electrical installations, keeping evacuation routes clear) and the preventive maintenance plan for safety equipment.

2. Fire Response Measures

They take the form of emergency procedures or internal emergency plans, depending on the risk category.

They define how to act when an alarm sounds, the evacuation plans leading to the assembly points, the organization of the emergency team and the use of first-response equipment (such as fire extinguishers and hose reels).

3. Safety Records

A file (physical or digital) containing the building's safety history:

• Survey or inspection reports
• Equipment maintenance and inspection reports.
• Incidents or anomalies detected.
• Training sessions given to employees.
• Reports of the fire drills carried out.

4. SCIE Training

Sessions for all employees, as well as specific training for safety delegates and other staff who deal directly with situations of higher fire risk.

5. Fire Drills

Periodic practical exercises (carried out at the frequency required by law) to test the effectiveness of the plans and train occupants to evacuate the building.

Who is required to have MAP?

In Portugal, the law requires virtually all buildings and venues in operation to have Self-Protection Measures, an obligation regulated by Decree-Law no. 220/2008, as currently amended, and enforced by ANEPC.

The rule applies to both public and private entities, whether owners or operators, covering almost all workplaces and customer-facing spaces, from offices, shops, restaurants and hotels to schools, clinics, industries, gyms, entertainment venues and high-rise condominiums.

What are the risks of non-compliance?

Neglecting to prepare or update the Self-Protection Measures exposes your organization to serious consequences:

1. High fines and penalties: Fines imposed by ANEPC for not having MAP can reach several thousand euros.
2. Prohibition or embargo: Non-compliance with SCIE can lead to the suspension of the occupancy permit or the closure of the establishment.
3. Loss of insurance cover: In the event of a fire, insurers may refuse to pay compensation if they prove the building did not meet its legal SCIE obligations.
4. Risk to people: Without clear procedures or trained teams, a small incident can quickly turn into a tragedy.

Does your building have approved MAP?

Self-Protection Measures must be prepared by qualified technicians accredited by ANEPC.

At Alves & Rasteiro, we handle the entire process: from assessing your space's needs to approval.

👉 Avoid fines and ensure the safety of your business. Contact us!

Does your organization need to prepare, update or review its MAP?

Alves & Rasteiro supports the entire technical process.

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