School safely evacuates injured pupil using equipment from Evac+Chair
Franche Community Primary School in Kidderminster has strengthened its emergency preparedness with an Evac+Chair 300H MK5, ensuring all pupils, including those with reduced mobility or temporary injuries, can be safely evacuated in an emergency.
Established in 1982, Evac+Chair is a global leader in the design and manufacture of evacuation chairs, trusted across schools, workplaces and public buildings. Its products are designed to support safe evacuation in situations where lifts cannot be used.
Since installing Evac+Chairs, Franche Community Primary School has already put them to practical use. In one incident, a pupil injured their ankle during breaktime and was unable to safely use the lift. Staff quickly deployed an Evac+Chair to assist the pupil down the stairs, through reception, and safely outside to a waiting taxi. The child’s injury – a minor fracture – was managed without complication, and the pupil returned to school within a few days.
Adam Clarke, Site Manager at Franche Community Primary School, said: “Working with Evac+Chair has been a pleasure. The team provide excellent support and are always on hand to answer any questions. The training team delivered a Key Trainer course to me and three other members of staff. The course was informative and practical, enabling us to cascade training throughout our team and maintain compliance. I would like to thank everyone at Evac+Chair for their support and for supplying us with a brand new 300H, which is now in use within our school.”
Claire Blakemore, Managing Director of Evac+Chair, said: : “Evacuation planning in education settings is critical.
Many schools include refuge areas as part of their evacuation planning; however, these are intended only as a temporary place of safety and do not replace the need for arrangements that enable full evacuation. Schools must ensure that all pupils, staff and visitors can reach a place of safety in any emergency, particularly where lifts cannot be used.
Franche Community Primary School has demonstrated a clear commitment to inclusivity and safety by putting its Evac+Chairs into active use and ensuring staff are trained to respond confidently.
Recognising that effective evacuation planning requires more than just fire drills, the school has taken a proactive approach.
With pupils of all abilities, and the potential for temporary injuries, having the right equipment and trained staff is an essential part of comprehensive safety planning.
By actively using Evac+Chairs in both drills and real incidents, Franche Community Primary School is setting a strong example of best practice for schools, helping to ensure emergency procedures are safe, practical and inclusive.”
For more information on Evac+Chair and its solutions for schools, visit: www.evacchair.co.uk
