Emergencies don’t discriminate—but outdated evacuation plans do. Fires, earthquakes, and other crises demand quick exits, yet not every employee can move at the same speed.
So, what’s the solution? Businesses need proactive strategies that ensure everyone can evacuate safely—no exceptions.
The Hidden Dangers in Workplace Evacuation Plans
Think your plan covers everyone? Think again. Many companies assume their evacuation plans are foolproof, but employees with limited mobility face significant obstacles when traditional escape routes—like stairwells—are the only exit route.
Consider these at-risk groups:
- Pregnant employees who may have difficulty navigating stairs quickly.
- Seniors who may experience slower movement or balance issues.
- Employees with disabilities who depend on wheelchairs, crutches, or other mobility aids.
This isn’t a small segment of the workforce—far from it. According to Statistics Canada, nearly one in five workers (19%) aged 25 to 64 in Canada has a disability. That means millions of employees face potential barriers in emergency situations. Without the right accommodations, they could find themselves stranded when seconds matter most.
It’s not just a moral imperative—it’s also a compliance issue. Organizations in Ontario, for instance, must adhere to the Ontario Public Service Occupational Health and Safety Policy, which underscores the importance of ensuring safe working conditions, including emergency preparedness.
Five Smart Strategies to Ensure No One Gets Left Behind
Safety isn’t a privilege—it’s a right. Here’s how businesses can create truly inclusive evacuation plans.
1. Ditch the One-Size-Fits-All Plan
Custom evacuation strategies are a must. Businesses should conduct individualized risk assessments, assign specific roles for assistance, and clearly communicate evacuation strategies.
2. Invest in Life-Saving Evacuation Equipment
When elevators fail, what’s the backup plan? Emergency evacuation chairs, such as those from Evacuscape, are lightweight and easy to use, ensuring individuals with mobility challenges can be safely transported down stairwells. Investing in the right equipment can mean the difference between rescue and risk.
3. Train Like Lives Depend on It—Because They Do
A great plan is useless without execution. Businesses should conduct regular training on:
- Proper use of evacuation chairs.
- Assigning “evacuation buddies” to assist those with mobility needs.
- Running fire drills that account for real-world mobility challenges.
Companies can take inspiration from resources like Toronto Hydro’s emergency preparedness guide, which provides practical steps for businesses to stay ready for unexpected power outages and other emergencies.
4. Keep Escape Routes Clear and Crisis-Ready
A blocked exit can be deadly. Here’s how to ensure your stairwells and emergency paths remain accessible:
- Regularly inspect emergency exits to remove any obstructions.
- Clearly mark evacuation routes.
- Strategically position evacuation chairs for quick access in case of an emergency.
5. The Power of an Evacuation Buddy System
No one should face an emergency alone. Assigning trained buddies to employees with mobility concerns ensures that everyone has support when seconds matter most. This simple yet effective system fosters a culture of accountability and care in the workplace.
Safety First: Because Every Employee Deserves a Way Out
Leaving anyone behind isn’t an option. By taking action now, businesses can guarantee that their evacuation plans work for everyone—because when it comes to workplace safety, accessibility is non-negotiable.
Stay in touch to get more updates & news on Internal Insider!
