In addition to Jane's feed-back another firm also supply powered evac-chairs which will climb up stairs as well as down. There is also one that can manage spiral stairs. (Swallow).

This kit is easy to operate and can be a useful item in a range of evacuation solutions. Transfer is not always required depending on the type you choose. It is not reasonable in my view to require a patron to transfer 2 or 3 times from their wheelchair. 

Wheelchair stair-climbers are available from both Baronmeade and Swallow. 

http://www.swallowlifts.co.uk/products.5.1.php

See the Stairmate and super-trac. The Super-trac is used effectively at the Peacock Theatre LSE. 

A min landing depth min. 1.5m is required. 

Sue


Sue Pellegrino
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-----Original Message-----
From: Accessibuilt list [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Jane Simpson
Sent: 01 October 2009 10:41
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: Theatre Fire Safety Evacuation

In relation to evacuation, they will still need to evacuate the individual
and this should be done wherever possible in their own wheelchair. Either by
carry down, lift or other mechanical means. Evac chairs are not suitable for
many.

There are a variety of pieces of equipment on the market, including the link
below. Unfortunately, they often damage timber stairs as they are quite
heavy and may need deep landings when turning through 180 degrees. Each
circumstance should be reviewed against the building conditions and layout.

http://www.baronmead.com/Pages/stairmate_summary.aspx

Could a back up battery be supplied to the platform lift, so that it could
be used? 

Again I was confused by your statement that they should transfer into an
evac chair from the platform lift. Is it that the lift only serves one
section and to get the individual to other areas they use an evac chair? And
if so what has this to do with the fire officer, this is a management issue?


External fire officers should not really be instructing, they can inspect
and close down premises (or is it different in Wales) or is this their own
internal fire officer? If you supply more info I am sure we could advise
further.

Regards Jane



Jane Simpson
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-----Original Message-----
From: Accessibuilt list [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of
Alyson Matthews
Sent: 01 October 2009 10:22
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: Theatre Fire Safety Evacuation

Hi Robert

Sorry if I'm coming across as a bit dense, but can you please clarify if the

issue refers to emergency evacuation out of the theatre, or simply getting
to 
and from seating under normal circumstances?

If it is emergency evacuation, then why would a platform lift be used?  This

would present a hazard in an emergency, as a fire may cause the electricity 
to trip, trapping the person on the lift.  Also, if the lift is within stair
space or 
a refuge area, using it during an emergency may increase the hazard for
other 
people.

Wheelchairs can be very personal things.  Some are specially constructed to 
accommodate the person's individual needs, including things like toileting, 
oxygen and medication.  Transfer to and from may not be feasible.  Also, who

would assist with the transfer?  What would happen if the disabled person
was 
injured?

I understood that the whole point of using platform lifts was that a
wheelchair 
user could be accommodated without having to transfer.  In an emergency, 
evac chairs should be used to move a person down stairs or steps who would 
not be able to do this on their own.  If it is not practicle for the person
to 
evacuate in the evac chair, then an emergency refuge should be used.

Thanks

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