EMERGENCY EVACUATIONS
SAFE & DIGNIFIED EVACUATION
When it comes to fire safety, ensuring everyone can evacuate safely is not an option; it is a necessity, says Evaccess.
Fire safety demands that everyone, regardless of ability, can evacuate buildings safely and with dignity. While there are both legal and ethical obligations to provide accessible evacuation, many premises still lack effective solutions for those needing assistance. At Evaccess, we specialise in evacuation devices (AEDs) that enable safe, dignified evacuations. We know the risks involved with unsuitable equipment and poorly planned routes, and offer guidance on selecting appropriate equipment, developing Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs), training staff, and ensuring equipment is serviced annually.
WHY FIT-FOR-PURPOSE EQUIPMENT MATTERS
It is increasingly common for organisations to purchase evacuation chairs or devices that are not suited to their specific needs, which can be as dangerous as having no equipment at all. Issues often include:
• Chairs incompatible with staircases, such as flared or spiral staircases.
• Devices requiring users to transfer out of their wheelchair, which is not feasible for many people.
• Equipment that is too physically demanding or complex for staff to use safely.
Selecting the wrong solution puts lives at risk and can result in equipment being unused or unusable during a real emergency.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT EVACUATION EQUIPMENT
Choosing an evacuation chair or stair climber is more than simply purchasing a product. A robust evacuation strategy must consider who will use the equipment, where it will be used, and who will operate it. At Evaccess, we use a four-step approach to ensure every solution is tailored:
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1. Consultation & Site Survey: We assess your premises and escape routes, identify potential operators, and determine whether users can self-transfer. Live demonstrations help your team understand how each device performs in practice.
2. Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs): A PEEP goes beyond paperwork; it is a tailored, legally compliant action plan for individuals needing assistance. Contrary to popular belief, the Fire Service is not responsible for evacuating everyone – businesses must have the right AEDs ready for use.
3. Training – Competence Saves Lives: Even the best equipment is ineffective if staff lack confidence or training. We provide hands-on operator training and a train-the-trainer programme to ensure your team can act decisively in an emergency.
4. Servicing & Ongoing Support: Regular servicing is essential. A faulty evacuation chair can have tragic consequences, so we offer annual servicing, regular inspections, and support for all makes and models.
THE REAL COST OF SAFETY
Businesses often hesitate to invest in proper evacuation solutions due to cost. However, the price of inaction – ranging from legal penalties and reputational damage to loss of life – far outweighs the investment needed for suitable equipment and staff training. Safety for all should never be seen as optional. Every person deserves the right to a safe, dignified evacuation. For advice and support, contact Evaccess on 0121 444 3690.
Get in. Get Out. Together.
https://evaccess.uk
TOMORROW’S HEALTH & SAFETY YEARBOOK 2026/27
WWW.TOMORROWSHS.COM
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