Why evacuation chairs need regular servicing

Evacuation chairs play an essential role in helping people with reduced mobility evacuate buildings safely during an emergency. Whether installed in offices, schools, hospitals, hotels, universities or public buildings, these specialist pieces of equipment are often relied upon when lifts cannot be used and staircases present a barrier to evacuation.

However, simply purchasing an evacuation chair and installing it in a building is not enough.

Like any piece of safety equipment, an evacuation chair must be maintained in a condition that allows it to function correctly when required.

Regular evacuation chair servicing is not just about maintaining equipment. It is about ensuring that an organisation's emergency evacuation arrangements remain effective.

---

Why Is Evacuation Chair Servicing Important?

An evacuation chair may remain unused for months or even years. Unlike equipment that is operated daily, problems can develop without anyone noticing.

Components may deteriorate, moving parts may become stiff, straps can suffer damage, and batteries in powered evacuation chairs may lose capacity.

These issues might only become apparent when the chair is needed during an emergency.

Regular servicing helps identify potential problems before they affect the chair's operation.

A suitable servicing programme can help to:

• Identify worn, damaged or deteriorating components.
• Check that moving parts operate correctly.
• Assess the condition of wheels, tracks and braking mechanisms.
• Inspect passenger restraints and harnesses.
• Check powered systems and battery condition where applicable.
• Identify issues caused by incorrect storage or accidental damage.
• Maintain records of inspections, maintenance and repairs.
• Support the reliability of the equipment.

The purpose of servicing is to identify and address problems before they become an issue during an evacuation.

---

Is Evacuation Chair Servicing a Legal Requirement in the UK?

There is no single UK law that states every evacuation chair must be serviced annually, regardless of its type or circumstances.

However, several pieces of legislation establish responsibilities relating to fire safety, workplace equipment and the protection of people who may require assistance during an emergency.

Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005

In England and Wales, the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 places responsibilities on the Responsible Person to implement appropriate fire safety arrangements.

Article 17 requires relevant fire safety facilities, equipment and devices to be subject to a suitable system of maintenance and maintained in an efficient state, in efficient working order and in good repair.

Where evacuation chairs form part of a building's emergency evacuation arrangements, their maintenance should be considered within these responsibilities.

Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER)

Where evacuation chairs are work equipment within the scope of PUWER, employers have duties relating to their suitability, maintenance, inspection and safe use.

Regulation 5 requires work equipment to be maintained in an efficient state, in efficient working order and in good repair.

The applicable inspection and maintenance arrangements should reflect the equipment, its use and the associated risks.

Equality Act 2010

The Equality Act 2010 places duties on relevant organisations to make reasonable adjustments for disabled people.

Evacuation arrangements should take account of individuals who cannot safely follow standard escape routes.

Where evacuation equipment is provided as part of those arrangements, keeping it operational is an important part of ensuring that the intended assistance remains available.

What Does This Mean in Practice?

Organisations should ensure that evacuation equipment is suitable, maintained and ready for its intended use.

The appropriate maintenance schedule should consider manufacturer instructions, the equipment's condition, frequency of use, operating environment and relevant risk assessments.

Annual professional servicing is a widely adopted approach, but it should not be presented as a universal statutory interval for every evacuation chair.

---

Evacuation Chairs and Class I Medical Device Classification

An important consideration when purchasing and maintaining evacuation equipment is whether the product is classified as a Class I medical device.

Certain evacuation chairs are manufactured and supplied as Class I medical devices, reflecting their intended medical purpose and the regulatory framework applicable to those products.

However, not every product marketed as an evacuation chair is necessarily classified as a medical device. Classification depends on the manufacturer's stated intended purpose and the relevant legislation.

What Is a Class I Medical Device?

Class I is generally the lowest-risk classification within the medical device regulatory framework.

In Great Britain, medical devices are regulated under the applicable UK Medical Devices Regulations, while products placed on the EU market are subject to the relevant EU medical device requirements, including EU MDR 2017/745.

The classification does not mean that the equipment requires less attention or can be left without maintenance.

Where an evacuation chair is classified as a Class I medical device, its intended use and manufacturer's instructions should be taken into account when establishing appropriate maintenance arrangements.

Why Does Medical Device Classification Matter for Servicing?

For evacuation chairs classified as medical devices, organisations should pay particular attention to:

• Following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions.
• Using competent personnel to carry out inspections and servicing.
• Ensuring replacement parts are suitable for the specific equipment.
• Keeping appropriate service and maintenance records.
• Identifying and addressing defects that could affect safe operation.
• Maintaining the equipment in accordance with its intended purpose.

A medical device classification is not, by itself, a requirement for annual servicing. The maintenance schedule should be based on the manufacturer's instructions and the relevant operational and legal requirements.

Why Is This Important?

Evacuation chairs are designed to transport people who may be unable to evacuate independently, often while negotiating staircases.

A failure involving the frame, tracks, brakes, restraints or other critical components could have serious consequences for both the passenger and the operators.

Where an evacuation chair is classified as a Class I medical device, its maintenance should reflect that classification, its intended use and the manufacturer's requirements.

---

How Often Should an Evacuation Chair Be Serviced?

For many evacuation chairs, manufacturers recommend professional servicing at least once every 12 months.

Annual servicing provides a regular opportunity to inspect the equipment, identify developing faults and address maintenance requirements.

However, the correct servicing frequency depends on the manufacturer's instructions and the conditions in which the chair is used.

Factors That May Affect Servicing Frequency

These include:

• The manufacturer's maintenance recommendations.
• How frequently the chair is used.
• Whether it is regularly used during training.
• The age and condition of the equipment.
• Exposure to dust, moisture or other environmental conditions.
• Any damage sustained during storage or use.
• The requirements of the organisation's fire risk assessment.

Some equipment may require additional inspections or maintenance between annual services.

Should Evacuation Chairs Be Checked Between Services?

Yes.

Organisations should establish suitable routine visual and functional checks in accordance with manufacturer guidance and their own procedures.

These checks may identify obvious issues such as damaged straps, missing components, incorrect storage or signs of deterioration.

Routine checks are valuable, but they do not automatically replace professional servicing where this is required by the manufacturer or maintenance programme.

---

What Happens During an Evacuation Chair Service?

A professional evacuation chair service should involve an assessment of the equipment's condition and operation against the applicable manufacturer's requirements.

The exact checks depend on the chair's design and whether it is manually operated or powered.

1. Frame and Structural Condition

The engineer checks relevant structural components for signs of damage, excessive wear, deformation or other defects.

The condition of the frame is particularly important because it supports the passenger during operation.

2. Wheels and Manoeuvrability

Wheels, castors and relevant moving components are inspected to identify damage, wear or restricted movement.

For four-wheel evacuation chairs, the condition of the wheel system is important for manoeuvrability across level surfaces.

3. Tracks and Stair Descent Mechanisms

Where fitted, the tracked system and associated mechanisms are inspected for condition and correct operation.

These components are particularly important for evacuation chairs designed to descend staircases.

4. Brakes and Locking Mechanisms

Relevant braking systems, catches and locking mechanisms are checked to ensure they function as intended.

5. Harnesses and Passenger Restraints

Passenger restraints are inspected for wear, damage, security and correct operation.

The type of harness varies between evacuation chair models, so the inspection must reflect the equipment being serviced.

6. Handles, Hinges and Deployment Mechanisms

The engineer checks that handles, hinges and other deployment components operate correctly and that the chair can be prepared for use as intended.

7. Powered Systems and Batteries

Powered evacuation chairs require additional checks relevant to their electrical and mechanical systems.

Depending on the model, these may include battery condition, charging equipment, controls, motors and powered stair mechanisms.

8. Functional Testing and Documentation

Appropriate functional checks help establish whether the chair operates as intended.

Following the service, the organisation should receive documentation recording the inspection, any identified defects and any maintenance or remedial work required.

The scope of the service must reflect the specific model and the manufacturer's procedures.

---

Why Powered Evacuation Chairs Need Particular Attention

Powered evacuation chairs can provide important benefits in buildings where operator handling demands or upward evacuation requirements make manual solutions less suitable.

However, powered systems introduce additional components that require attention.

These may include:

• Rechargeable batteries.
• Battery connections.
• Charging systems.
• Electric motors.
• Control systems.
• Powered stair-climbing mechanisms.

Battery Condition Matters

A battery can deteriorate over time even when the chair is rarely used.

An evacuation chair that appears to be in good physical condition may still have reduced battery performance.

Organisations should follow the manufacturer's charging, battery inspection and replacement guidance.

A regular maintenance programme can help identify issues that might otherwise go unnoticed.

---

Can an Evacuation Chair Fail Even If It Has Never Been Used?

Yes.

Infrequent use does not necessarily mean that equipment remains in perfect condition.

Evacuation chairs may be affected by:

• Environmental conditions.
• Age-related deterioration.
• Accidental damage.
• Incorrect storage.
• Component wear during training.
• Battery degradation.
• Missing or damaged accessories.

For this reason, an unused evacuation chair should not automatically be assumed to be ready for an emergency.

The fact that equipment has never been needed does not remove the need to maintain it.

---

Evacuation Chair Servicing and Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs)

A Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan, or PEEP, identifies the arrangements required to help an individual evacuate safely.

Where an evacuation chair forms part of that plan, the equipment must be suitable and available when required.

A PEEP may identify:

• The individual requiring assistance.
• The intended evacuation route.
• The type of evacuation equipment required.
• The personnel responsible for providing assistance.
• The training required.
• Alternative arrangements if the normal procedure cannot be followed.

However, even a carefully prepared PEEP can be undermined if the evacuation equipment is defective or unavailable.

Equipment, Training and Maintenance Must Work Together

An effective evacuation strategy depends on more than the chair itself.

Organisations should consider three connected elements:

• Suitable equipment: The evacuation chair must be appropriate for the individual, staircase and evacuation route.
• Trained personnel: Operators must understand how to use the equipment safely.
• Regular maintenance: The equipment must remain in a suitable working condition.

If any one of these elements is missing, the effectiveness of the evacuation arrangements may be compromised.

---

Does Evacuation Chair Servicing Protect the Manufacturer's Warranty?

Many manufacturers attach maintenance conditions to their warranties.

These may require servicing at specified intervals or by approved service providers.

Failing to follow the relevant warranty conditions could affect warranty coverage.

However, warranty requirements vary between manufacturers and models.

Organisations should check the terms applicable to their particular equipment.

Keep Your Service Records

Maintaining accurate records helps organisations demonstrate that equipment has been inspected and maintained.

Useful records include:

• Equipment make and model.
• Serial number or asset reference.
• Location within the building.
• Date of inspection or service.
• Engineer or service provider.
• Defects identified.
• Repairs or replacement parts.
• Next recommended service date.

A central equipment register can be particularly valuable for organisations operating across multiple sites.

---

Can Evacuation Chairs From Different Manufacturers Be Serviced by One Provider?

Yes, provided the service provider has the appropriate competence, technical information, tools and access to any required parts for the equipment concerned.

Organisations with evacuation chairs from several manufacturers may benefit from using a single competent servicing provider.

Potential advantages include:

• One point of contact.
• Consistent equipment records.
• Coordinated service visits.
• Reduced administrative work.
• Easier tracking of upcoming maintenance.
• Potential cost savings.

However, the provider must be capable of carrying out the correct inspection and maintenance procedures for each model.

A service should never be treated as a generic inspection that ignores manufacturer-specific requirements.

---

The Risks of Unnecessary Evacuation Chair Replacement

Regular servicing should help organisations maintain their existing equipment wherever it remains suitable and serviceable.

An older evacuation chair is not automatically unsafe simply because of its age.

Some well-maintained chairs may remain operational for many years.

The decision to repair or replace equipment should be based on its actual condition, the availability of suitable parts, manufacturer guidance and whether it remains appropriate for its intended use.

When Might Replacement Be Necessary?

Replacement may be appropriate where:

• The chair has significant structural damage.
• Essential components cannot be repaired or replaced.
• The manufacturer has withdrawn necessary support or parts.
• The equipment no longer meets the individual's evacuation requirements.
• The chair is unsuitable for the intended staircase or evacuation route.
• Repairs are no longer technically or economically reasonable.

A professional service should provide an evidence-based assessment, not automatically result in a recommendation to purchase new equipment.

Where a chair is identified as unsafe, the organisation should receive a clear explanation of the defect and the appropriate corrective action.

---

Why Annual Servicing Can Be Cost-Effective

Evacuation chairs represent an investment in emergency preparedness.

Regular maintenance can help protect that investment by identifying issues before they develop into more serious problems.

Potential benefits include:

• Extending the useful service life of suitable equipment.
• Reducing unexpected repair costs.
• Identifying problems before emergency use.
• Supporting warranty requirements.
• Avoiding unnecessary replacement.
• Improving equipment record keeping.
• Supporting ongoing fire safety management.

For organisations with multiple chairs or sites, coordinating maintenance visits can also reduce disruption and administrative time.

---

How Evacuation 360 Can Help With Evacuation Chair Servicing

At Evacuation 360, we understand that purchasing evacuation equipment is only one part of maintaining effective emergency evacuation arrangements.

Ongoing servicing and suitable operator training are equally important.

Evacuation Chair Servicing

We offer evacuation chair servicing to help organisations maintain their equipment and identify potential defects.

Our servicing offering is designed to support organisations using evacuation chairs from different manufacturers, subject to model-specific servicing capability and requirements.

Operator Training

Practical training helps staff understand how to deploy and operate evacuation equipment correctly.

Train the Trainer

Train the Trainer courses can help organisations develop internal training capability and maintain appropriate operator knowledge.

Evacuation Equipment

We also offer a range of manual and powered evacuation chairs, allowing organisations to explore equipment options suited to different evacuation requirements.

---

Final Thoughts: An Evacuation Chair Must Be Ready When Needed

Evacuation chairs are often installed for situations that everyone hopes will never happen.

But if an emergency occurs, there may be little time to discover that equipment is damaged, difficult to deploy or no longer functioning correctly.

Regular servicing helps organisations identify potential problems, maintain equipment reliability and support their wider emergency evacuation arrangements.

It should form part of a broader approach that includes suitable equipment selection, staff training, practical evacuation planning and appropriate routine checks.

The most important time to discover a problem with an evacuation chair is before an emergency, not during one.

Arrange Evacuation Chair Servicing

Whether you have a single evacuation chair or equipment across multiple sites, Evacuation 360 can help you organise servicing and ongoing equipment maintenance.

Explore our Evacuation Chair Servicing service or contact us to discuss your requirements.

This article provides general information about evacuation equipment maintenance and relevant UK requirements. It does not replace manufacturer instructions, a competent equipment assessment or professional advice about the legal obligations applicable to a particular premises.