2026
State-of-the-Art Review of Evacuation Simulation Tools: Approaches, Benefits and Challenges
SMAŽINKA, Dalibor; Štěpán KAVAN; Martin HRINKO; Eva STÝBLOVÁ; Radomír ŠČUREK et al.Basic information
Original name
State-of-the-Art Review of Evacuation Simulation Tools: Approaches, Benefits and Challenges
Authors
SMAŽINKA, Dalibor; Štěpán KAVAN; Martin HRINKO; Eva STÝBLOVÁ and Radomír ŠČUREK
Edition
International Journal of Safety and Security Engineering, 2026, 1258-5769
Other information
Language
English
Type of outcome
Article in a journal
Field of Study
50900 5.9 Other social sciences
Country of publisher
United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Confidentiality degree
is not subject to a state or trade secret
References:
Marked to be transferred to RIV
Yes
Organization unit
CEVRO University
EID Scopus
Keywords in English
evacuation simulation. agent-based modelling. cellular automata. risk analysis. public spaces. safety engineering
Changed: 8/6/2026 20:55, doc. Ing. Martin Hrinko, Ph.D., MBA, LL.M.
Abstract
In the original language
Evacuation simulation is a key tool in safety engineering, crisis management, and public space design. Increasing urban density, complex architecture, and new threats increase the need for scenario-based predictive models for evacuation planning beyond the norm. Advances in computational modeling, agent simulations, 3D visualization, and data integration have transformed evacuation models from simple calculations to complex sociotechnical systems. The article provides an overview of tools for evacuation simulation in risk analysis and public safety planning. It synthesizes the literature, technical documentation, and case studies with a focus on modeling approaches, validation, and practical applicability. It critically compares five platforms: Pathfinder, MassMotion, LEGION, buildingEXODUS, and FDS+Evac in terms of computational models, behavior, visualization, system integration, calibration, and typical applications. The article reviews approach to modeling evacuation, from agent models and cellular automata (CA) to hybrid socio-physical concepts and emerging technologies such as digital twins, AI and edge computing. It identifies limits in realistic behavior, empirical validation, standardization and interoperability. It articulates research gaps and directions towards more robust models, real-time data integration and wider institutional adoption. Evacuation simulation is mature but still evolving thanks to interdisciplinary collaboration and a stronger empirical foundation.