Introduction

Module 4, “Assisting People with Disabilities in Emergency Situations,” addresses the crucial aspect of providing effective support to individuals with disabilities during emergencies. It aims to empower participants with the knowledge and skills needed to assist people with disabilities effectively in emergency situations, to enhance participants’ ability to provide comprehensive support and ensure the safety and well-being of individuals with disabilities during emergencies, to ensure that emergency evacuation procedures in companies are accessible and accommodating for people with disabilities, to increase awareness and understanding among employees in the company in the area of needs and challenges faced by people with disabilities during emergencies, to setting the most typical barriers to transportation accessibility in companies environment.

Submodule 4.1 Provision of assistance to people with disabilities during emergencies

Examples of the most common emergency situations that can occur in the workplace:

Providing assistance to people with disabilities in emergency situations that may arise in the workplace should be stated in the evacuation plan. This should consider the individual needs and abilities of each affected person. For some people with disabilities, it may be convenient to develop personal evacuation plans that consider their individual needs and abilities. These plans should be regularly updated and shared with the relevant individuals and rescue teams. It is also important that other employees are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to provide quick and effective assistance in the emergency situation.

For effective evacuation, it is important to have a clear priority evacuation plan and facilities that allow people affected to be removed from the building quickly and safely. People with more severe disabilities, such as those who cannot leave the building on their own, should be evacuated first. The determination of priority evacuation should be based on the individual needs of those affected and stated in the evacuation plan.

Subsequently, the evacuation plan must be checked regularly with trainings. It is recommended to conduct evacuation trainings and emergency simulations on a regular basis.  The frequency of exercise can be quarterly, mid-yearly, or once a year, depending on the size and complexity of the organization, regulatory requirements, and operational risks. All staff and persons responsible for carrying out evacuations and providing assistance should be involved in the training.

Steps to provide assistance to people with disabilities during emergency situations

1. Disability risk assessment

Risk assessment is a key element in ensuring and maintaining occupational health and safety. This involves several sub-processes:

• Risk Searching
• Taking action
• Keeping documentation
• Risk communication
• Monitoring and control

Risk management makes it possible to identify and evaluate potentially dangerous factors that may be present in the workplace. To put it simply, it is a detailed survey of the entire workplace, on the basis of which risks that could threaten workers are revealed. Therefore, if such risks are detected, it is absolutely necessary to assess their seriousness and then take measures to eliminate them. It is important to approach the identification and assessment of risks in the workplace where people with disabilities are with the utmost care and caution, as even those that may not be a risk to healthy people can be potentially dangerous risks to such disabled people.

Risk management must take into account the organisation of work and any changes or modifications to the working environment and work equipment. The aim is to minimise or completely eliminate risks and discrimination against people with disabilities. Individual differences between affected workers should also be considered, individual assessments should be carried out, and find the kind of assistance they will need in the event of an emergency. This may include the need for personal assistance, special evacuation equipment, or adapting evacuation plans. It is not possible to think that all those affected are the same. It’s quite the opposite. Each affected person requires different measures and adaptations to the workplace. Therefore, it is important to:

• evaluate and identify a group of workers who may be more at risk than others
• separately assess potential security risks that only apply to people with disabilities
• take into account the type and extent of the disability and the working environment
• personally consult the affected employees directly about working conditions and risks – they know what they need
• consult risk management for the disabled with experts in occupational health and safety and workplace ergonomics, doctors, health professionals and specialists in employing disabled and otherwise handicapped people
• adapt the work of people with disabilities (adaptation of working hours, workplace, equipment, workflow, etc.), not the other way around

2. Adjust the work environment

Adapt the staircase – provide the upper edges of the stairs with a light paint or tactile strips for the blind. Ensure that in the event of an emergency, the audible signals for the blind and the light signals for the deaf also work. Have the door opening adjusted ideally so that it is automatic to the sensor. The modification of handles, bells, and entry mechanisms to ensure accessibility for people who use wheelchairs is also definitely beneficial. Make the floor coverings non-slip and make sure they are on the same level – barrier-free.

Place disabled workers in jobs that are easily accessible – ideally on the ground floor. If possible, also offer them to work from home. Adjust work tools and other devices to accommodate the individual’s disability. For example, get a Braille keyboard for the blind, a hands-free phone kit for the disabled, and for deaf a textphone – a device for converting the spoken word from the phone into text form.

For people who suffer from musculoskeletal problems in the upper body, install voice recognition software on your computer. For those who suffer from visual impairments, get an enlarger program (ZoomText, MAGic, etc.).

3. Adjust working conditions

Adjust the working hours of people with disabilities so that it has a positive effect on their work performance. Delegate certain responsibilities, such as driving a car or operating a technical device or machine, to employees without disabilities. Respect and acknowledge absences from work due to rehabilitation and other medical treatments. If your employee has had an accident at work and has become a person with a disability, organise their return to work.

4. Provide safety signs

Make markings in matte colours, not glossy ones. Inscriptions should be in a contrasting colour against the background. Instead, use graphic and pictograms, as they are easier and quicker for those affected to understand. Provide Braille safety signs on doorknobs, doors, and other locations. Use tactile signs for the blind, or at least capital letters that are easier for the visually impaired. This applies to any notifications, warnings, and other important information. Also think about what you can do to help visually disabled employees in their work – for example, choose colour-contrasting furniture or use knurling on the floor.

5. Be prepared for emergencies

Provide important safety measures in case of a sudden emergency such as a fire. Place disabled workers in places that are easily accessible and can be evacuated more quickly (ground floor, basement). Have special equipment ready – for example, an evacuation chair for the disabled. Designate employees to ensure the evacuation of disabled workers in the event of an emergency. Provide important additions to existing alarm equipment – such as flashing flashlights, visual or vibration mechanisms.

6. Communicate and educate those affected

Provide disabled employees with all information related to occupational health and safety and fire protection. Hand them all the necessary materials in a form that will be acceptable to them. Give training in spoken form for the blind and written for the deaf – for example, through e-learning training via the Internet or virtual reality. Tailor simplified training to them individually. Communicate with them regularly and educate them. Ask them what works for them and what doesn’t work for them in terms of safety. Take an interest in their work!

7. Occupational health and safety training for people with disabilities

OSH training for disabled or handicapped workers is always a completely individual matter. In most cases, the training must be adapted to each individual separately with regard to their health complications. A blind, deaf or disabled employee will receive different OSH training.

Take measures that will not put people with disabilities at a disadvantage in education in the field of occupational health and safety, as well as fire protection. Provide them with individual educational materials, a reader or an interpreter, using simple and understandable language that will be accessible to them.

Also, don’t forget that in many cases, both healthy and disabled employees work together. Therefore, familiarize ordinary employees, as well as managers, with all the specific information that concerns those affected. Give them the training they need to know how to help and treat people with disabilities. In the same way, you must never forget that it is necessary to train those who will take care of the evacuation of disabled people in the event of a critical situation (fire, accident, etc.).

8. Health and Safety Training Requirements

So, what are the requirements for occupational health and safety training for disabled employees? It is always necessary to consider the specific disability of the worker, the conditions of the workplace and, of course, risk prevention, which must be elaborated before the preparation of the training curriculum itself. It is therefore necessary to familiarize the affected employee with all the risks that occur in the workplace and that he or she may encounter, from entering the building, through movement around the workplace to leaving the workplace. In short, wherever a disabled person could fall, trip or come into contact with a machine or device that poses a risk of injury. In general, it is recommended to consult a professionally qualified person in risk prevention, i.e. a specialist in occupational health and safety and fire protection.

How to communicate with people with disabilities

The following steps apply to communication with persons with reduced mobility, especially in an emergency situation:

• treat the affected person the same as anyone else,
• speak directly to the person in a wheelchair and not to an accompanying person; maintain eye contact (unless you are pushing a person in a wheelchair),
• maintain a normal tone of voice (do not speak quietly or raise your voice too much),
• not to push for help at all costs or to help without being asked,
• not to force help at all costs or to help without being asked,
• not to underestimate the person in any way,
• avoid inappropriate words.

In the context of evacuation, handling the disabled is often more problematic than communication. If it is necessary to manipulate the disabled person (putting in or lifting out of the wheelchair), it is necessary firstly to start communicating with the person that we are going to handle. It is also necessary to ask how we will proceed in this case. Each affected person has their own system of how to proceed and we should follow their instructions. When handling, we consider possible muscle weakness (legs, hands, etc.) and try to prevent injury. If possible, we try to evacuate people on their own means or accompany them with them.

People with sensory disabilities and dementia

In the case of people with sensory disabilities (deafness and blindness) and intellectual disabilities, the most serious problem during evacuation is the communication barrier with these people. It is important to consider proper communication with the affected person. It can be crucial for a successful evacuation.

Communication with the visually disabled person should be initiated by addressing them with eye contact so that the visually impaired person knows that we want to communicate with them. If it is necessary to manipulate the affected person in any way, it is necessary to warn them first. Then we describe to them the activity we intend to perform. In this way, we convey information such as: “now I will put on a protective mask for you”, etc.

Other necessary steps when communicating with a blind person:

• never separate a blind person from a guide dog,
• offer help, don’t impose it,
• when accompanied, point out obstacles and stairs.

Communication with a hearing disabled person should always take place in such a way that it is possible to read words for the deaf person. It is therefore advisable to articulate clearly, not shout and speak more slowly. However, lip-reading may not always be an adequate method of conveying information. It is therefore necessary to use methods of gesture and facial expressions. When providing information, it is advisable to make sure that the person has fully understood our message. Alternatively, try to repeat the message.

When communicating with people with intellectual disabilities, it is crucial not to underestimate the person, to try not to limit communication and to adapt to the possibilities of the disabled person. It is necessary to speak clearly, to use short sentences and to speak slowly. It is important to maintain a friendly interest and avoid sudden and unexpected movements. In addition, it is necessary to:

• avoid technical expressions, irony, lengthy phrases, etc.,
• in case of misunderstanding, use non-verbal communication (pointing to the places where to go, to the people we are talking about),
• take care of the peace of the affected (do not leave them alone, calm them down),
• use the help of a caregiver as an assistant when moving.

Submodule 4.2 Transportation challenges

The types of barriers affecting the evacuation of people with disabilities

The types of barriers affecting the evacuation of people with disabilities are as follows:

1. Physical barriers – these are mainly related to ensuring the accessibility of buildings, which includes wide entrances and exits that allow the movement of trolleys and other equipment. Ramps or lifting platforms located in places with height differences, such as stairs or entrances to buildings, are also an important element. These devices allow wheelchair users easy and safe access to entrances and exits that might otherwise be inaccessible to them.

Examples of possible physical barriers that limit the movement of people with disabilities:

• Stairs without an evacuation lift or stairs without a ramp
• Obstacles on the evacuation route – cabinets, tables, ashtrays or other objects located in the paths leading to emergency exits
• Handrails strong and high enough on stairs and in places with height differences to prevent falls and dangerous situations
• Terrain irregularities – uneven surfaces, slopes
• Narrow doors and corridors – obstruct passage and slow down the evacuation process
• Insufficient marking of emergency exits – makes evacuation more difficult
• Insufficient lighting in an emergency situation – makes orientation difficult
• Lack of availability of emergency equipment –if fire extinguishers or other emergency items are inaccessible or difficult to reach for people with disabilities, or they have not received training on how to use them, they cannot intervene adequately in the event of an emergency
• Inadequate equipment for the evacuation of people with disabilities

Examples of equipment for the evacuation of people with disabilities

• Stretchers, lifters
• air mattresses, evacuation beds
• Special trolleys, evacuation chairs, stair climbers
• Different ramps

2. Communication barriers – refer to difficulties in communicating and sharing information during evacuation procedures. These barriers can arise for several reasons and may include:

• Lack of information – people with disabilities may have insufficient information about evacuation procedures, emergency exits, or safety instructions, making it impossible for them to respond adequately in the event of an emergency
• Communication difficulties – those with certain types of disabilities, such as severe hearing or visual disabilities, may have communication issues, which can make it difficult to receive evacuation instructions or communicate with others during an evacuation
• Lack of availability of communication aids – if special communication aids such as devices with voice output, text messages, or tactical signals for visually impaired people are not available in the workplace, it can make it difficult to communicate during evacuation
• Stress and panic – in the event of an emergency, stress and panic levels can increase, which can make it difficult for people with disabilities to communicate and receive evacuation instructions

In order to eliminate communication barriers, emergency instructions should be:

• Clear, explicit
• Simple
• Understandable
• Provided in a way that verifies that the person with the disability understands it. It is possible to use images, symbols, scales
• For the hearing disabled, it is possible to use visual alarm devices such as light or tactical indicators
• For the visually disabled, it is possible to use voice devices that provide audio instructions in case of emergency

It is important to emphasize that communication barriers are not static and can change depending on the specific situations and needs of the individual person. Therefore, it is important to regularly update, train and adjust the measures for communication during evacuation in accordance with the latest information and technology. To effectively ensure communication during the evacuation of affected people, it is essential to integrate possible communication barriers into the overall evacuation and emergency management plan. This includes identifying specific communication needs related to people with disabilities included in evacuation plans and then training staff on this issue.

3. Sensory barriers – refer to limitations or obstacles that can make it difficult or impossible to effectively evacuate people with various types of sensory disabilities, such as vision, hearing, or touch.

These barriers may include inadequate warnings and orientation signs, unavailability of information for people with sensory disabilities, and lack of navigation during evacuation.

How to reduce or eliminate sensory barriers:

• Establish early warning systems or alarm equipment that use different sensory channels (sound, light, vibration) for people with limited hearing or vision
• Clearly mark escape routes, including emergency lighting for the visually impaired – contrasting colours and textures, tactical lines, embossed signs placed on the floor as guidance lines to emergency exits, signs in Braille, voice navigation through speakers,
• Use audio navigation systems, voice instructions from evacuation personnel
• Appropriate marking of escape routes for the hearing impaired – use of visual signs with text and symbols (arrows) at an easily visible height and well-lighted, tactile signs on doors or walls, special devices placed on the door to induce vibrations to warn of an approaching emergency exit.
• Use smartphones, navigation apps, and communication aids to enable people with various types of sensory disabilities to communicate and navigate effectively during evacuation

Again, it is important to emphasize that sensory barriers are not static and can change depending on the specific situations and needs of the individual. Therefore, it is important to regularly update and adjust sensory barrier measures in line with the latest information and technology. To effectively ensure the safe evacuation of affected people, it is essential to integrate sensory barriers into the overall evacuation plan and emergency management.

4. Movement barriers – when evacuating disabled people, there are restrictions that can slow down or prevent the movement of people with different types of mobility disabilities in emergency situations.

The following picture shows how much space, or what dimensions there is, a healthy person carrying luggage, a disabled person with crutches and in a wheelchair. Dimensions are given in centimetres (cm).

The following picture shows the dimensions of a disabled person with a stick, with crutches, with a walker and in a wheelchair (dimensions are given in cm).

The following illustration shows the dimensions of a disabled person in a wheelchair with a service staff, two disabled people in a wheelchair, a disabled person with a cane for the blind, and a person with a stroller.

Speed of movement of people

Obviously, people with disabilities will move slower than healthy people during evacuation. Below is a table that compares the speed of movement of a person with a disability to the speed of movement of a healthy person. When evacuating, it is necessary to take this information into account.

5. Psychosocial barriers – refer to emotional and social factors that can affect an individual’s ability to respond to emergencies and evacuate effectively. These barriers can include fear, anxiety, and panic caused by stressful situations, a lack of trust in the information provided, and a lack of support and understanding from others and rescue teams.

Many affected individuals may experience heightened anxiety and fear in emergency situations, which can lead to decisions based on emotions that can be dangerous or ineffective. It is important to provide support resources and strategies for managing stress and anxiety, as well as psychological support that can help people maintain calm and clear-thinking during evacuations.

Some individuals may have distrust of authorities and offices, and may fear that the information they receive is not reliable or complete. It is important to ensure transparency and clarity in providing information, as well as to actively communicate with those affected, taking into account their needs and concerns.

Finally, the lack of support and understanding from other people and rescue teams should be highlighted. Many affected people may feel isolated or neglected during the evacuation, which can lead to feelings of helplessness and injustice. It is important to ensure that adequate support and assistance is provided to those affected during evacuation, including special and individual needs.

Evacuation procedures

Evacuation of people can be simultaneous (uncontrolled) or gradual (controlled). Each form of evacuation has its advantages and disadvantages.

Simultaneous evacuation

The simultaneous evacuation is simpler, it places fewer demands on the technical systems used for evacuation (unified information calling for evacuation is sufficient), on the training of personnel and people in the building. Due to the accumulation of a large number of people on escape routes, queues usually form and a number of communication openings leading to staircases remain open, which is the cause of more intensive devaluation of escape routes, especially by smoke gases.

The simultaneous evacuation is therefore disorganized and in a short time the vast majority of evacuees accumulate on key escape routes, increasing the density of people and thus overloading the evacuation routes. The idea of the emergence of a continuous flow of people passing through the exit is therefore highly idealized.

Gradual evacuation

Gradual evacuation is more complex, placing higher demands on the technical systems used for evacuation and on the training of personnel. Gradual evacuation is usually organized in such a way that people are evacuated first on the floor where the fire is developing, then from the floor above the fire and then from the other floors of the building, while the evacuation of people on the next floor begins just before the evacuation of people from the previous floor is completed. The possibility of queues due to the accumulation of a large number of people is minimized and at the same time the possibility of smoke in the escape routes due to the opening of a large number of communication openings is reduced.

Priority in the evacuation of disabled persons

In the event of an emergency, people with disabilities should be evacuated first. Priority for the evacuation of those affected is essential:

• to ensure their safety;
• to ensure that there is enough other staff to help evacuate those affected
• to ensure the subsequent smoothness of evacuation
• there are no blockages during evacuation

Evacuation plan including people with disabilities

The evacuation plan that is developed at the workplace should clearly set out the procedures for evacuating those affected in the event of an emergency. This plan should be part of the overall building safety plan and should be reviewed and updated regularly. From the perspective of people with disabilities, it should take into account:

• Individual needs: Each affected person may have different needs and abilities, so it is important to consider each person’s individual situation when planning an evacuation and to factor these into the evacuation plan.
• Establish an evacuation team: It is advisable to have a dedicated evacuation team that is responsible for assisting those affected during the evacuation. This team should be trained and ready to provide the necessary assistance.
• Alternative means of evacuation: Where possible, alternative means of evacuation should be available for those affected, such as lifting platforms, stretchers, or special evacuation ladders.
• Continuous Training: Those affected should be regularly trained in evacuation procedures to prepare for any emergency

Evacuation via stairs

The most common challenge during the evacuation of individuals with disabilities, especially those with physical disabilities, is overcoming stairs.

• In the case of evacuation via stairs, it is important to have assistants available who can help individuals with disabilities move
• To overcome stairs during emergency evacuation, the following aids can be utilized for individuals with physical disabilities:

Title	Maximum Load, Maximum Stair Slope	Example
Evacuation Chair (on wheels, tracked, electric)	160 kg 39ᵒ
Stair climber	130 kg 35°
Stair climber – chair	120 kg 40°
Portable or Folding Access Ramps	300 kg (2 m) / 250 kg (3 m)
Folding Access Ram	500 kg
Roll a ramp „bridge“	450 kg
Lifter	100 kg
Liftining stretchers	100 kg
Folding Evacuation Bed	160 kg

Elevator and evacuation elevator

There are several reasons why in the event of an emergency situation in the workplace, a regular elevator should not be used:

1. High risk of power outage – if there is a complete power outage, the elevator may become stuck, for example, between floors, trapping you inside. Such a situation completely eliminates attempts at a safe evacuation and complicates access for rescue teams.
2. System malfunction during emergencies – elevators are complex devices that may be prone to malfunctions, even under normal circumstances. In an emergency situation, the risk of malfunction may be even higher, which could lead to entrapment or other dangerous situations.
3. Elevator overload – during an emergency situation, the elevator may be fully occupied by people trying to exit the building, which could lead to elevator overload and failure

For these reasons, it is usually recommended to use stairs in the event of an emergency situation and to avoid using the elevator.

However, there is an exception, which is evacuation elevators designed specifically to ensure safe evacuation of individuals in the event of a fire or other emergency situation. They differ from regular elevators in several ways:

• Fire resistance – evacuation elevators are designed to withstand fire for a certain period (usually 30 or 60 minutes). This includes fire resistance of the shaft, cabin, and all elevator components
• Emergency power supply – evacuation elevators are equipped with a backup power source that ensures their operation even in the event of a power outage
• Overpressure ventilation – the cabin of the evacuation elevator is equipped with overpressure ventilation, which prevents smoke and fumes from entering the cabin
• Control – evacuation elevators are equipped with special controls that allow firefighters to operate the elevator from the outside and evacuate people from a burning building
• Capacity – evacuation elevators are typically larger than regular elevators to accommodate more people at once

Submodule 4.3 Employment inclusion (disabled and non-disabled personnel) to effectively respond and assist each other in emergencies

Appropriate placement of workplace for disabled individuals

When considering the placement of a workplace for a disabled individual, we consider 3 levels:

1. Within the building
2. Within the room
3. Considering the movement of a person with disabilities in the building

1. Within the building – the workplace for a disabled individual should be located in an office or other room that is closest to the evacuation exit or evacuation route from the building. The workplace for a disabled individual should be located in an accessible part of the building, preferably on the ground floor or in a location with barrier-free access.

To ensure accessibility (in case of need arising from the presence or expected presence of a person with disabilities with limited orientation and mobility), aids such as handrails, ramps, or stair climbers should be available.

2.Within the room – the workplace for a person with disabilities should be located in a position that allows the easiest escape from the room

Appropriate placement of a workplace for a disabled person is crucial to ensure their comfort, efficiency, and safety while working. Ideally, the placement of the workplace for a disabled individual should be carefully considered and adapted to the individual needs and abilities of the person. Communication with the disabled individual and regular assessment of the working environment can help ensure that the workplace is optimal and safe for them.

Here are the factors to consider when determining the placement of a workplace for a disabled individual:

• Barrier-free access: The workplace should be located in a space with barrier-free access, meaning it should be easy and safe for the disabled individual to reach it without any obstacles.
• Ergonomics: The workplace should be designed with ergonomics in mind, meaning it should be comfortable and efficient for use by the disabled individual. This includes proper adjustment of the desk height, chair, and monitor to minimize fatigue and discomfort.
• Adequate space: The workplace should provide enough space for the movement of the disabled individual and handling of necessary materials and equipment. Overcrowded or cramped spaces can hinder movement and increase the risk of accidents.
• Proximity to necessary resources: The workplace should be located close to necessary resources such as electrical outlets, printers, storage spaces, and other equipment essential for performing the work.
• Quality of lighting: Quality lighting is important for comfort and productivity. The workplace should be located near a window or well-lit area to ensure optimal visibility.
• Accessibility of assistive technology: The workplace should be equipped with assistive technology that facilitates the work and communication of the disabled individual, such as special keyboards, mice, or accessibility software (headsets for the hearing impaired, speech recognition software).

Hygienic recommendations for individuals with disabilities in the offices

Hygienic regulations for individuals with disabilities in the office generally do not differ from regular hygiene regulations. However, there are several specific areas that require increased attention:

Hygiene:

• Disabled workers should have access to enough space and tools for thorough hand washing, including disinfection.
• If necessary, touchless soap dispensers and paper towels should be available.
• Toilets should be equipped with an adequate amount of toilet paper and hygiene supplies.

Health Protection:

• The office environment should be clean and dust-free to minimize the risk of allergies and respiratory diseases.
• temperature and humidity in the office should be regulated to suit the comfort of all workers.

1. Considering the movement of a person with disabilities in the building – in the event of evacuation necessity, it is good to have an idea of where a person with disabilities may be located within the building. One of the rooms that a person with disabilities must certainly visit during working hours is the restroom.

Issues regarding the placement of restroom facilities

Restroom facilities for individuals with disabilities should be located near the room utilized by the disabled individual. This is an ideal solution for new buildings designed to accommodate or be visited by individuals with disabilities.

However, concerning evacuation, the priority remains for the room where the disabled individual works or otherwise utilizes to be as close to the evacuation exit as possible. If there is a debate over whether to prioritize the proximity of the restroom facilities (i.e., placing the workstation or service area for individuals with disabilities further from the evacuation exit and closer to the restroom facilities), it is advisable in any case to choose the option where the room utilized by the disabled individual is closest to the evacuation exit. This debate is likely to occur frequently in buildings whose construction was not initially planned to accommodate individuals with disabilities.

Further recommendations regarding the placement of restroom facilities for individuals with disabilities:

• Barrier-free access: Restroom facilities should be designed with barrier-free access in mind, meaning they should be easily accessible and usable for individuals with various types of disabilities, including those in wheelchairs, with visual or hearing impairments, or with other mobility limitations.
• Adequate space: Restroom facilities should provide sufficient space for the movement and manipulation of disabled individuals, including those with assistive devices such as wheelchairs or walkers. Spaces should be spacious and easily accessible.
• Aids and adaptations: If necessary, restroom facilities should be equipped with special aids and adaptations that facilitate use for individuals with disabilities. This may include handrails, support bars, wide doors, automatic sensors, or other modifications.
• It is also important to ensure that restroom facilities are easily identifiable and accessible in case of emergency.

Possible division of roles during the evacuation of a work team, including a person with disabilities

It is important for these roles to be clearly defined, and for all team members to be well-informed about their duties and responsibilities during evacuation. Additionally, it is crucial to organize backup either within the roles of the team or with other employees.

Regular training and exercises can help ensure that the team is prepared to respond to various situations and that the evacuation proceeds as efficiently and safely as possible.

Effective response to one of the most common risk situations in the workplace: fire

Fires can arise from various causes, including electrical faults, faulty equipment, careless handling of fire or flammable substances, and can have serious consequences for employees, property, and business operations.

It is important to remember that individual safety always takes precedence over attempting to extinguish a fire. If the situation is unclear or dangerous, it is better to evacuate immediately and contact a professional fire service.

Attempting to extinguish a fire is appropriate only under certain conditions. Here are situations when it is safe and appropriate to attempt to extinguish a fire:

• Initial stages of the fire – if it is a small fire in its early stage, which is not yet extensive and does not tend to spread rapidly, you can try to extinguish the fire using a suitable fire extinguishing device, such as a fire extinguisher
• Safe distance and escape route – if you are at a safe distance from the fire and have a secure escape route in case the situation worsens, you can try to extinguish the fire
• Personal safety – firefighting should only be attempted if it does not endanger your own safety. If the fire is too large, spreading rapidly, or too intense, it is better to evacuate immediately and contact a professional fire service
• Knowledge and ability to use firefighting equipment – if you have knowledge and ability to use firefighting equipment, you can try to extinguish the fire. If you do not know how to use the firefighting equipment, it is better not to attempt and instead apply a safe evacuation procedure

Utilizing fire extinguishers by people with disabilities

Teaching the operation of fire extinguishers to individuals with disabilities requires a sensitive and individualized approach that takes into account their specific needs and abilities. Here are several steps and strategies that can be useful in teaching individuals with disabilities:

1. Start with an individual assessment of the abilities and needs of each person with a disability. Determine their physical limitations, their mobility and object manipulation abilities, and the type of communication that suits them best.
2. Use visual aids and demonstrations to explain the process of using a fire extinguisher. If possible, perform a demonstration directly in front of them to show them the correct procedure.
3. If necessary, use special tools or adaptations to facilitate the manipulation of the fire extinguisher for individuals with disabilities. This may include handles for better grip, enlarged instruction labels, or other modifications that cater to specific needs.
4. Provide individuals with disabilities with enough time for hands-on practice with the fire extinguisher. Repetitive practice helps reinforce learned skills and increases confidence in their use.
5. Repeat the important steps and principles of using the fire extinguisher and emphasize their importance. Individuals with disabilities may have memory problems or difficulty concentrating, so repetition is key to solidifying learning.
6. Provide positive reinforcement and encouragement to individuals with disabilities during their learning process. Support and encouragement can increase their motivation and confidence in using fire extinguishers.
7. In some cases, it may be necessary to provide individual assistance to a person with a disability in using the fire extinguisher. Ensure that assistance is provided sensitively and respects the individual’s needs and preferences.
8. After learning how to operate a fire extinguisher, it is important to provide continuous support and supervision to ensure that individuals with disabilities maintain their skills and are prepared for potential emergency situations.

How to use fire extinguisher?

Most common types of fire extinguishers and their use in various situations:

Fires involving electrical installations, which are one of the most common causes of fires in office buildings, cannot be extinguished with a conductive extinguishing agent, i.e., water. To extinguish them, it is necessary to use a CO2 fire extinguisher.

How to safely check if there is a fire in the next room?

• If the smoke or burning smell comes from another room, test the doors before opening them. Touch the doors with the back of your hand. Do not open the doors if they give you a very warm feeling when you touch them and if you see smoke coming from underneath. Opening the door will cause the fire to grow.
• If the temperature is normal, open the door slowly, and if there is still smoke, try to move by crawling on the ground to the extent of your ability.
• During the fire, heavy smoke and poisonous gases accumulate in the ceiling, so crouch down on the floor and crawl to a safe location.
• Never move away from the wall when you are indoors. Remember that if you move away from the wall in a place with intense smoke, your risk of getting lost is higher. Memorize the location of the exit doors and the items on the exit/evacuation way that you specified on your Disaster Plan. Continue without leaving the wall, and it will direct you to the exit door.
• If the fire is in the direction of escape, and if you need to open the door and evaluate the size of the fire inside, do not open it completely but only slightly to observe the fire’s size. If the fire is not big (life threatening), open the door slightly and move to the nearest exit by leaning on the wall and crouching down, to the extent of your ability.
• In a place with dense smoke, breathe by covering your mouth and nose with a piece of wet wipe or cloth, if possible.
• If you cannot get out of the building, stay in a position beside a window where you can be seen from outside, and ask for help. Do not take shelter in places such as cupboards or tables.
• If you have a chance, cover door openings and ventilation holes with a damp cloth to prevent outside smoke from entering.

Submodule 4.4 Emergency Preparedness Kits for people with disabilities

Disasters and emergencies can happen anytime anywhere, and you may not find an opportunity to search for or get the supplies you need. Therefore, it is important to prepare a disaster and emergency kit containing special needs and essential life support materials depending on your disability and keep your bag in easy-to-access locations for you.

Recommended content

These materials are the recommended content. Je důležité pravidelně aktualizovat obsah evakuačního zavazadla a zohlednit individuální potřeby a požadavky každé postižené osoby.

Recommendations how to take care of the emergency kit:

• Check all items in the disaster and emergency kit periodically and renew if necessary (Renewing water, food and batteries regarding their expiration dates and changing the clothes appropriate to the season)
• Keep copies of important documents and belongings that water or liquids might damage in waterproof bags
• When preparing the disaster and emergency kit, make sure it has an appropriate shape and weight, which makes it easy to carry.
• If the devices and equipment used are of such a size that they cannot be put into the kit, keep them in a close place and always make sure they stand side by side with the bag
• Keep your disaster and emergency kit next to or attached to your walker, wheelchair or electric wheelchair

Further recommendations connected to the use of assistive devices:

• If you are using a tool or device, make sure you have a written document that explains how it works, and if necessary, have contact information of the places it can be obtained from
• If you are using an electric wheelchair, also keep a lightweight manual chair in an easily accessible place nearby in case of an emergency. Apart from its size and weight, also make sure that it is portable and foldable

The guide/assistive animals and their emergency kit

The guide/assistant animals and dogs are not only companions in daily life, but also in an emergency. They can help to safely escape from the danger and to guide the physically disabled individual during evacuation. If you have a guide/ assistant animal, you should prepare disaster and emergency kit according to the care needs of your animal as well.

The following list has the basic items that you must have in your kit to meet the needs of your guide/assistant animal or pet in an emergency. As evacuation may be necessary, make sure that your disaster and emergency kit is accessible and easy to carry.

Emergency kit contents for animals: Sufficient bottled water, animal food, spoon, a collar and leash, a harness, a blanket and toys, plastic bags, paper towels, bags, sterile gloves, a copy of the report card (ownership information, identity information, veterinary documents), manual tin-opener, medications the animal uses, vitamins, newspapers, a muzzle, masks (against dust and smoke), food and water can, etc.

Recommendations how to take care of the emergency kit for gude/assistive animals

• Do not forget to check and renew the items that need changing every 6 months.

Remember that pets and guide animals may be confused, scared, or in­jured during or after an emergency situation.

Summary of key points

• Common workplace emergencies include fire, health incidents, violent incidents, natural disasters, and technical failures
• Evacuation plans should consider individual needs of people with disabilities and prioritize their safety
• Risk assessment is crucial for identifying and mitigating potential dangers in the workplace
• Communication with people with disabilities during emergencies requires calm behaviour, clear instructions and understanding of their needs
• Training and regular simulations are essential for all staff to effectively handle emergency situations
• Evacuation barriers for people with disabilities include physical, communication, sensory, movement, and psychosocial barriers
• Physical barriers involve obstacles like stairs without lifts, narrow corridors, and insufficient lighting, while equipment like stretchers and ramps can aid in evacuation
• Sensory barriers involve challenges for individuals with sensory disabilities, requiring early warning systems and clear markings
• Movement barriers, such as slower evacuation speeds for disabled individuals, should be considered, along with psychosocial barriers like fear and anxiety, requiring support resources and prioritized evacuation procedures
• Workplace placement for disabled individuals involves considerations at three levels: within the building, within the room, and considering movement within the building during emergencies
• Workplace accessibility is crucial, with factors such as proximity to evacuation routes, ergonomic design, adequate space, and access to necessary resources being essential
• Restroom facilities for disabled individuals should be strategically located, prioritizing proximity to the workplace and ensuring barrier-free access
• During evacuations, roles should be defined and could be settled this way: evacuation leader, person responsible for disabled colleagues, communication coordinator, physical support provider, and backup assistant
• Attempting to extinguish fires is only advisable under certain conditions, such as in the initial stages of the fire, when personal safety is not compromised, and when equipped with the knowledge and ability to use firefighting equipment
• The disaster and emergency kit should include medical supplies, communication tools, lighting, personal hygiene items, food and water, clothing, important documents, assistance aids, backup power sources, basic guides, and tools to meet specific needs
• It is important to regularly check and renew items, keep important documents in waterproof bags, ensure the kit’s shape and weight are manageable, and keep it accessible alongside mobility devices
• Assistive devices should have written instructions for device operation, keep a manual wheelchair accessible for electric wheelchair users, and ensure devices are portable and foldable
• If you have an assistive dog, prepare a kit for them containing water, food, collar and leash, harness, blanket, toys, medications, and veterinary documents, and periodically check and renew its contents

Useful links

https://www.dokumentacebozp.cz/aktuality/efektivnejsi-rizeni-firmy-a-management-rizik-bozp/

(More effective company management and occupational safety and health risk management in Czech Republic, an article by an exeprt company which provides servises for comapnies regarding the topic)

https://www.bezport.cz/rady-doporuceni/pripravte-se#K6

(Preparatory measures for emergencies and crisis situations placed on BEZPORT portal which is a public security portal in the Karlovy Vary Region, Czech Republic which aims to provide the public and experts with credible and up-to-date information in the field of preparation and resolution of emergencies and crisis situations)

https://www.zakonyprolidi.cz/cs/2007-361

(Government Decree Laying Down the Conditions for the Protection of Health at Work in the Czech Republic)

https://www.nzip.cz/clanek/886-sjednocena-organizace-nevidomych-a-slabozrakych-cr-z-s-sons-cr-z-s

(United Organization of the Blind and Visually Impaired of the Czech Republic)

https://nrzp.cz/

(National Council of Persons Disability of the Czech Republic)

Case study

Self – Assessment

Bibliography

https://www.dokumentacebozp.cz/aktuality/efektivnejsi-rizeni-firmy-a-management-rizik-bozp/

https://www.bezport.cz/rady-doporuceni/pripravte-se#K6

Combat Order of Fire Protection Units: Methodological Sheet Number 12 – Principles of Communication with Persons with Disabilities at the Scene.” In Ostrava: Association of Fire and Safety Engineering 2017. ISBN 978-80-7385-026-5

PANČOCHOVÁ, Soňa a Zuzana DITTRICHOVÁ. Methodical DVD – Communication with People with Disabilities during the Fire Brigade: Visually Impaired. Firefighters – Education [online]. [accessed 21.03.2022]. Lázně Bohdaneč: Institute of Civil Protection Lázně Bohdaneč, 2014. Available at: https://www.hasici-vzdelavani.cz/content/materialy-ke-stazeni-1/

Folowarczny, L., Pokorný, J.: Evacuation of Individuals. 1st ed. Ostrava: SPBI, 2006. 125 p. ISBN 80-86634-92-2

Liberec Region Fire Brigade: Professional Training of Members of Volunteer Fire Brigade Units: Population Evacuation (online). Published 2008

Zdařilová, R., Laub, F.: Specific Conditions of Accessible Environment for Seniors. In Proceedings of the 2nd Annual SENIOR LIVING Conference, Zlín, November 8th – 9th, 2007. Collective Authors. České Budějovice. Ledax o.p.s., 2008

Proulx, D.: Movement of People: The Timing of Evacuations. 3rd ed. Quincy: National Fire Protection Association, 2002. 342 p. ISBN 087765-451-4

Milan Marek, bachelor’s thesis, Evacuation of people with limited mobility from large residential social care facilities, Brno University of Technology, 2008

Project “Let’s Overcome Disabilities Together Against Disasters”, [2016-1-TR01-KA204-034345] financed from EU programme Erasmus+

Presentation

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