Things to consider when purchasing skid chairs
There are about 4 major skid chair brands. The oldest style and market leader of skid chairs are, in general, the most expensive in the long term.
Although skid chairs are very cheap and cheerful, the hidden costs are in the intensive training, start up costs and essential long term ongoing training costs. Replacement of rubberised running track is also regular requirement.
The braking system is dependent on the manual handling of the operator; there is not a fail-safe brake. Because skid chairs don’t have a "Dead Man’s Handle Breaking System" if an operative has to release his hold on the unit for any reason (for example to let people pass or they are bumped by escaping people), skid chairs and the occupant cannot be relied on to remain secure, on the stairs in the worst case scenario.
Due to the design of metal runner and thin rubberised running track, skid chairs can affect the fabric of a staircase.
Organisations with more than one type of staircase i.e. wood, metal, concrete, carpeted, marble etc cannot rely on damage or operational effectiveness of skid chairs.
Normally skid chair manufacturers state that the chair should be used by an attendant that is substantially less in weight than the occupant.This effectively means that in an emergency a skid chair cannot be relied on for evacuation as you cannot guarantee that the occupant will not be heavier than the attendant.
Skid Chairs do state that if used on a regular basis it may be possible to take a heavier occupant.
By definition Evacuation Chairs are not used on a regular basis, therefore it is unlikely that an operative will be trained to a standard required in an emergency.
Skid Chair manufacturers insist on "Train the Trainer" training programs. It is therefore regarded that someone trained to use an evacuation chair, would due to its complexity of operation not be able to train someone else simply. “Train the Trainer” programs tend to be at least half a day in duration.
Finally, if you are considering a supplier of evacuation chairs for multiple buildings, skid chairs have limitations.
- Skid Chairs cannot be used to climb basement stairs for below ground floor evacuation as no power and therefore need to be used with massive manual handling.
- Skid Chairs cannot be used for spiral or flared stair evacuation.
- Skid Chairs cannot allow a wheelchair user to escape in their own chair.
- Skid Chairs have logistical training issues, manual handling training issues, especially with staff movement and associated costs.
