Finding the Perfect Fit for Your Building and Occupants

When it comes to emergency or non-planned evacuations, the right equipment can make all the difference. Evacuation chairs are essential for safely assisting individuals with mobility challenges, but with so many types available —manual, powered, hammock or traditional chair style, fold away wheels or permanent four-wheel designs — choosing the right one can feel overwhelming.

What is the key to making the right choice? Understanding the unique needs of your building, the conditions of your staircases, and, most importantly, the needs of the people who may need assistance. Let’s explore the different types of evacuation chairs, their features, and why we believe traditional chair style permanent four-wheel designs often come out on top.

Types of Evacuation Chairs: Pros and Cons

1. Manual Evacuation Chairs

Manual chairs rely on the operator’s strength and control. They are simple and effective for most situations.

Pros: Lightweight, easy to use and store, cost effective.
Cons: Can require physical effort, especially on steep stairs or with heavier individuals, only suitable for descending stairs.

2. Powered Evacuation Chairs

These chairs are equipped with motors to aid movement, reducing the strain on the operator.

Pros: Ideal for long descents or steep staircases, allow occupants to be transported safely upstairs, reduces: operator fatigue and the potential for injury due to manual handling
Cons: Heavier, reliant on battery power, more expensive, and can be complex to maintain.

3. Kickstand Style Evacuation Chairs

Kickstand style chairs require the rear wheel stand to be kicked closed in use and are based on the original evacuation chair design.

Pros: Space-saving, ideal for tight spaces on stairwells.
Cons: Setup can take extra time, operator use may be more complicated, training can take longer, more moving parts to maintain and service, folding mechanisms may wear over time,

4. Upright permanent 4 Wheel Evacuation Chairs

The upright modern design is more aligned to a normal chair on wheels

Pros: Quick setup, Ergonomic design that can enhance operator comfort, such as the ‘stoop-free’ and ‘free-walk’ systems offering ease of use, passenger comfort, same height as wheelchairs for easy transfer, footrest for occupants
Cons: Slightly larger for storage

5. Hammock-Style Seats

These chairs cradle the evacuee in a flexible fabric seat, offering an alternative to rigid designs.

Pros: Lightweight and flexible.
Cons: Less stable on stairs, may lack the support needed for individuals with certain conditions, can leave occupants legs dangling and be uncomfortable.

6. Smooth Track Systems

Smooth tracks glide effortlessly down standard indoor staircases.

Pros: Gentle descent, ideal for indoor use.
Cons: Can slip on wet or uneven surfaces, less effective and should not be used on external stairs.

7. Rugged Track Systems

Designed for outdoor use, rugged tracks provide excellent grip on uneven or slippery surfaces.

Pros: Superior traction on wet or icy stairs, ideal for external staircases.
Cons: Heavier and less manoeuvrable indoors.

Why Traditional Four-Wheel Designs Stand Out

Evacuation chairs with four permanent wheels are the workhorses of the evacuation world. Their durability, stability, simplicity and ease of use make them an excellent choice for most environments.

Advantages of Four-Wheel Evacuation Chairs:

Stability: Four permanent wheels ensure maximum stability, reducing the risk of tipping over.
Ease of Use: Quick deployment.
Versatility: Effective on both flat surfaces and staircases, making them ideal for diverse building layouts.
Durability: Fewer moving parts mean less maintenance and longer-lasting performance.

Considerations:

They may take up more storage space and require a bit more effort to manoeuvre in tight areas.

Considering the Occupant’s Needs

When selecting an evacuation chair, it’s essential to think beyond the equipment and focus on the people who will use it. Different chairs offer varying levels of comfort and support, so consider the following:

Transfer Issues: Look for chairs with sturdy armrests to assist in transferring the occupant from a wheelchair or seat.
Waist Belts vs. Four-Point Harnesses: Waist belts provide basic security, while four-point harnesses offer enhanced stability and safety for individuals who need additional support.
Footrests: Ensuring the occupant’s feet are secure and supported can improve comfort and safety during the descent.
Comfortable Seating: Consider the needs of those who may have medical conditions requiring extra support.

Make the Right Choice for Your Team

Selecting the right evacuation chair is about more than compliance—it’s about ensuring the safety and comfort of everyone involved. Traditional four-wheel designs offer reliability and ease of use, but it’s crucial to assess your building’s specific needs, the type of staircases you have, and the needs of the people you’re assisting.

Ready to Enhance Your Evacuation Strategy?

If you’re ready to choose the perfect evacuation chair or want expert advice on training, contact us today. We can help you find the ideal solution and ensure your team is fully prepared for any situation.

Invest in the right evacuation chair, and you’re investing in the safety, dignity, and well-being of everyone in your care. Don’t leave it to chance—choose equipment designed to meet your unique needs.

Pictures below showcase the different types of evacuation chairs and their key features:
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