Q: How strong do I need to be to operate the Evacuation Chair?

A: Because the chair operates on the Stair-TREAD™ system, strength is less of a concern than being properly trained. More friction (i.e. occupant weight) will result in down stairs movement without lifting. When using the chair to transport someone downstairs, it is important to note that you should be pushing down towards your toes, not pulling back.

Q: Why do I need 2 people?

A: Although Stryker always recommends two operators, the chair can be operated by one individual with an occupant weighing up to 200 pounds. For an occupant weighing over 200 pounds it is required to add another operator at the foot end for additional security. In the case of emergency, tensions tend to be quite high. As a single operator begins to operate the chair, the occupant or “evacuee” will generally show signs of concern or anxiety. When adding a second operator at the foot end, a more stable environment is presented to the evacuee resulting in a more efficient evacuation. Secondly, should something happen to the single operator, the second foot end operator can safely continue the evacuation from the lower end.

Q: I have noticed that most multi-story facilities incorporate wheel chairs into their facilities—will I have to purchase both?

A: Stryker’s Evacuation Chair features wheelchair-like mobility and will accommodate both needs. With front caster wheels, the Evacuation Chair provides a secure and comfortable lateral evacuation if necessary.

Q: Can the chair go up stairs?

A: Yes. The chair is equipped with folding rear lift handles for this purpose. They were designed to allow the front (head end) operator to ascend in a leader-forward position, permitting a clear line of vision. Also, in order to ascend up stairs or over obstacles, two operators are required to lift the chair. The treads connot be used to go up stairs.

Q: How much does the Evacuation Chair weigh?

A: 34 pounds, with a weight capacity of 500 lbs. The chair was designed to be used daily by EMT’s and paramedics. Therefore, it had to be light enough to carry yet rugged enough for frequent transfers.

It was re-engineered to be operated by one individual transporting an occupant up to 200 pounds. For an occupant weighing over 200 pounds it is required to add another operator at the foot end for security.

Q: How can I stop the chair if I’ve already started going down stairs?

A: To stop the chair in the middle of the stairs, tip the chair slightly forward to rest the track on the lip of the next step. The Stair-TREADs will grip the stairs. The heavier an occupant is, the slower the descent will be. Never leave an occupied chair unattended.

Upon reaching the landing or flat surface use the wheel locks to stabilize the chair if needed. Only use the wheel locks during occupant transfer or without an occupant on the chair.

Q: Where should I store my Evacuation Chair?

A: The chair needs to be in plain sight of all building occupants. Place one chair in each workspace, cubicle, or office of a permanently mobile impaired person. Most commonly, Evacuation Chair owners use the wall-mountable storage bracket and cover, and place the chair in a main corridor or hallway. It is important to note there are many different fire codes and regulations, dependent upon geographical location, that pertain to storage in stairwells. Please check with local fire marshals before placing the Evacuation chair in a stairwell. Avoid placing the chair in a closet or locked office.

Q: Who provides service for my Evacuation Chair? How can I maintain it?

A: An inspection schedule is located in the manual based on frequency of use. There is a checklist located in the operational manual for reference. Your Stryker EMS Sales Representative can provide you with a qualified service provider. Otherwise, call 1-800-327-0770.

Q: Are these chairs required?

A: The ADA requires each building to have accessible means of egress (ADAAG 4.1.3(9), 4.3.10), but does not specify a solution. During most emergencies, the preferred method of egress—elevators—are out of service for safety reasons. The Evacuation Chair serves as an effective means of exiting a multi-story building for handicapped or incapacitated individuals.

Q: How do I get the person from their desk to the stairs?

A: You can use the Evacuation Chair to transfer the immobile individual from their work station to the stairs by using it in a wheelchair fashion. The chair is equipped with front caster wheels for this purpose, and also for use after stairway transport.