Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, how many schools in England are fitted with evacuation chairs.

Education is a devolved matter, and the response outlines the information for England only.

Decisions on the provision and use of evacuation chairs should be made locally and on a case-by-case basis, based on the individual’s needs and preferences and their building’s evacuation plan requirements. The responsible body (the relevant local authority, academy trust or voluntary-aided body) is responsible for ensuring the health and safety of all the occupants of their buildings.

Under fire safety legislation, those responsible for the building must ensure that everyone can leave safely in the event of a fire. Schools and colleges have a duty under the Equality Act to make reasonable adjustments for individuals with limited mobility. Anyone requiring assistance should therefore have a Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan (PEEP) in place.

The government’s guidance is clear that, where a PEEP of a student or member of staff requires an evacuation chair, it must be provided.