Evacuation pods are designed to evacuate a person with injury or disability safely from the workplace or from an area of risk. The person being transported lies in the pod in a horizontal position, while two people maneuver the pod using long and adjustable straps at either end, staying upright themselves. The evacuation pods normally have a padded base, a head support and safety body straps. The pods have a smooth underside that allows them to move or slide easily on various surfaces. They should be carried by people who have been trained in their use. Pods roll up to the size of a sleeping bag for easy storage.
Workplace solutions and adjustments
Evacuation pods are beneficial for those persons who have mobility limitations. They are particularly useful for people who are wheelchair dependent, where in the event of an emergency are unable to use a lift and are unable to exit the building via the stairs. Employees should be trained in the use of an evacuation pod.
Other equipment that may be useful in an emergency evacuation can be sourced at the links below:
References
Independent Living Centres Australia Inc. 2011, Independent Living Centres Australia Inc., Sydney, viewed 30 November 2011, http://www.ilcaustralia.com/home/search4.asp?State=NSW&MC=44&MinC=50&Item=2483&page=13.
Job Accommodation Network 2008, Evacuation Devices, U.S. Department of Labor, Washington, viewed 30 November 2011, http://askjan.org/media/emergency.html.
Latrobe City Council 2007, Emergency Recovery Fact Sheet, What to do in an emergency: Information for older people, people with a disability and carers to prepare for an emergency, Latrobe City Council, Morwell, viewed 30 November 2011, http://www.latrobe.vic.gov.au/WebFiles/Council%20Services/Fires/Fact%20Sheet%203%20-%20What%20To%20Do%20In%20An%20Emergency.pdf.