Evacuation advice for those who may have difficulty evacuating
These difficulties could arise from permanent, long term or temporary
disability. Although not exhaustive, the following is a guide as to what may
be relevant:
-
Mobility impairment ranging from strains and sprains through use
of walking aids to being confined to a wheelchair. Most relevant
are problems using stairs, travelling distances or open doors.
-
Visual or hearing problems. In particular if you may not become
aware that a Fire alarm has actuated or be able to follow
directions (signs or verbal).
-
Use of medication, drugs or alcohol. If using our sleeping
accommodation and you may not become aware that a Fire alarm has
actuated or react in the usual way.
-
Mental health problems or learning difficulties. Those relevant
would be such as panic attacks or inability to follow or
comprehend instructions.
Anyone to whom this may apply or anyone responsible for visitors to whom it could apply should arrange a Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan (PEEP).
The following advice is mainly for those using University of Essex buildings but
may be useful elsewhere.
You are requested to notify the door attendant of your expected location on
entry to the Albert Sloman Library or any of the entertainment venues.
Wheelchair users and others who cannot manage stairs:
The advice to not use lifts holds true in general however some lifts are
specially adapted to remain safe for use; where these are available they are the
best option. This will be covered in a PEEP at the University of Essex.
If possible you should leave the affected area by a horizontal route. The main
building at the University Wivenhoe Campus is alarmed in vertical zones; you
will be in a safe area when you pass a red flashing beacon but must not re-enter
until the beacon stops flashing.
Request assistance from a colleague or any other available person to assist you
into a designated Refuge Area or next to a staircase. You should then use the
communication system there or ask the person assisting you to inform the
Security Staff. The Security Staff, having been advised of your presence, will
inform you as to what action to take and will arrange assistance if required.
Unless you are threatened by the fire or other emergency you should not enter
the staircase enclosure; should you be threatened by fire, you should move onto
the staircase but remain on the landing. All staircases are protected and you
would normally be safe to remain on the landing for at least an hour.
Specialist evacuation chairs are provided on some staircases, we may need to
provide training for any carers in its use and would like to familiarise you
with it.
Persons who can manage stairs with difficulty:
Follow the advice above or make your way to a staircase. Your limited mobility
could cause an accident to either yourself or others, do not attempt to descend
until the main body of other people has passed.
Visual Impairment
Exit routes should be well lit, doorways etc. are obvious and signage should be
large enough to read. If you may have issues finding your way out you should
ensure you familiarise yourself with all potential escape routes or be
accompanied at all times.
Difficulty Reading
If you cannot read the information provided, particularly the emergency
instruction notices, it should be read to you or provided in a larger format.
Hearing Issues
If you may not hear the Fire Alarm you must request that specialist equipment is
provided or ensure that someone will notify you immediately. The University of
Essex provides flashing beacons to assist you in some areas and has specialist
equipment available for residents and sleeping guests.
Mental Health Issues
These range from severe learning difficulties to occasional panic attacks.
Potential solutions generally require personal support or supervision. This will
be covered in the PEEP.