Evacuation Sledge Training

Project Description

Course Overview

At Essential 6, our Evacuation Sledge Training equips your staff with the vital knowledge, skills, and confidence to safely evacuate individuals in emergency situations — including down staircases, through narrow corridors, and in high-risk environments where wheelchairs and evacuation chairs may not be suitable.

Delivered by our expert trainers, this hands-on course combines practical training with essential theory to ensure your team understands how to operate evacuation sledges safely, legally, and respectfully. Whether you’re working in healthcare, social care, education, hospitality, or public venues, this training supports full compliance with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, PUWER, and the Equality Act 2010.

Your team will take part in realistic evacuation drills, learning to move individuals with dignity while following structured safety protocols and working effectively as a team.

Course Aims

1. To develop the confidence, competence, and readiness of staff to safely use evacuation sledges during emergency situations, including on staircases and in restricted spaces.

2. To ensure legal and procedural compliance by embedding a working knowledge of key legislation such as the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, PUWER, and the Equality Act 2010.

3. To support a culture of safety and accountability by enabling delegates to assist in the planning and implementation of Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) and General Emergency Evacuation Plans (GEEPs).

4. To provide practical, hands-on experience using evacuation sledges in realistic scenarios, helping teams respond swiftly and safely under pressure.

Course Objectives

By the end of this course, delegates will be able to:

1. Identify and explain the different types and functions of evacuation sledges and their appropriate use in various environments.

2. Understand and apply the relevant legal duties and organisational responsibilities surrounding emergency evacuation and the use of evacuation equipment.

3. Demonstrate safe manual handling techniques, including the correct preparation, positioning, loading, and movement of an individual on a sledge — particularly on stairs and in tight spaces.

4. Work effectively as a team during evacuation procedures, using clear communication, designated roles, and safety protocols.

5. Respond to emergency scenarios with confidence, using evacuation sledges in timed, practical drills that simulate real-life workplace risks.

6. Recognise and apply principles of dignity, inclusivity, and respect, ensuring individuals are evacuated in a manner that maintains safety and person-centred care.