The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have published guidelines on how to ensure you are properly considering the needs of disabled individuals in your fire and emergency evacuation policies.

Issues to consider when creating a policy for disabled individuals include:

• A named person(s) is responsible for assisting or ensuring that each disabled individual evacuates safely. More than one is preferred so as to ensure a thorough coverage of support
• The disabled individual is made aware of their personal evacuation procedure (including named helpers, specific route and any special requirements regarding where to assemble)
• Identifying the safest area located on each floor within the building to which a person with disabilities can be moved or directed to await assistance if full evacuation is not possible
• How to assist the individual with a disability without causing injury should the need arise.

Click here for the full guidance document on ensuring the safety of disabled individuals in case of fire or emergency.