The RESNA Standards Committee on Emergency Stair Travel Devices has drafted a RESNA Position Paper on the Use of Evacuation Chairs.  Per procedures for the development and approval of RESNA Position Papers on Clinical Practice, the draft paper is being posted to the RESNA website for a 30-day comment period.

 

Several different devices exist for travel down stairs by individuals with disabilities during emergency evacuations. The Committee worked to produce a performance standard, ANSI/RESNA ED-1:2013, which specifies terminology, measurement methods, and required performance regarding minimum weight capacity, stability, and maneuverability.

 

The Committee felt that additional guidance regarding the devices was needed by consumers, emergency planners, life safety professionals, and building owners and managers. The draft Position Paper notes the different design types that exist, and the research work that has gone on regarding their use.  It also provides recommendations regarding device type and number of devices which should be obtained.  By providing this information, more informed decisions can be made regarding purchase of devices to outfit buildings for safe, efficient emergency evacuations.

 

Comments are encouraged on the draft Position Paper’s content and recommendations. Individuals making comment must provide their name, affiliation, and e-mail address. Comments are to be sent to ymeding@resna.org by April 8, 2015.