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1.7 Evacuation instructions
Evac is a mattress cover with a built-in function for
evacuation of bed-bound users. In case of fire or other
emergency, there is no time to think about what to do next.
Therefore, it is very important that the safety equipment, as
well as the evacuation procedures, are well planned and
known in advance.
The Evac cover is equipped with three handles on the head
and foot end. On the sides, there are handles with velcro
straps. These straps are to be used to fixate the user to the
mattress before commencing the evacuation. The straps are
folded in the protective pockets on the side of the mattress
with the ends sticking out to ensure that they are easy to pull
out.
Evacuation instructions
Down from the bed
• Inform the user about what will happen.
• Lower and lock the bed in position.
• Disconnect the tubes from the control unit.
• Pull out and fasten the velcro straps.
• Use the outer handles at the foot end of the mattress and turn the
mattress out from the bed.
• Slowly pull the user down on to the floor.
On an even surface
• Pull on the outer handles at the foot end
of the mattress.
• Working position should be a little bit
leaning back.
Down the stairs
• Walk backwards until the main part of the mattress has slide pass
the top stair.
• Turn the back to the user and look in the moving direction.
• Hold one hand on the stair handle and
pull with the other hand
on the middle handle of the mattress.
• Walk down the stairs. It is important to
maintain speed, without running.
Training/practise
To bear in mind when training.
Pulling down from the bed:
• The user in the bed should not be at the very top of the mattress.
There could be a risk of hitting the head in the bed when pulling
down.
Pulling in the stairs:
• Start with pulling an empty mattress down the stairs, in order to
practice the technique.
• When training with a person on the mattress, a string or rope can be
fasten in the handles at the head end. Another person can then walk
behind the mattress and help out if problems should occur.
• It is advisable to practice in the same stairs where an evacuation can
be necessary.
General:
• The main purpose of the training is not to reach high speed, but to
learn the correct technique.
Training covers
• Because of the heavy strain on the equipment when evacuating,
always check the seams and handles at the end of training. We
recommend that equipment used for training is marked with
“Training equipment” and is only used for this purpose.
Explanations
• If the velcro straps are not used, there is a risk of the user
sliding/rolling down from the mattress.
• Pulling at the foot end reduces the strain on the puller, which means
faster and safer evacuation is possible.
• Pulling in the stairs is the most difficult part of the evacuation and
should be practiced extra carefully.
• The arms of the user shall be inside of the velcro straps. This way
reduces the risk of the user grabbing hold to something out of fear.
NOTE!
When using wider mattresses, make sure that the evacuation
routes are clear (size of doors etc.). Responsible personnel
have to ensure that the evacuation can be performed safely.
To
ensure proper function of the Evac cover, it is important to
regularly check the quality of the mattress. Check for damages
that could cause problems when evacuating.
WARNING!
Person to perform an evacuation needs to have the necessary
training. Always check the equipment, cover and mattress
before commencing, to make sure an evacuation can be
carried out safely
.
It is the user’s responsibility to ensure that
it is safe to use for evacuation.
