Carrying the (safety) torch

Employers have to keep their employees safe in any situation. This isn’t too difficult when everything is running smoothly … We talk to Adam Bottomley, owner of Sitwell Technologies, to discover how the company’s new range of evacuation/transfer products can help when things go pear-shaped.

According to Bottomley, Sitwell Technologies delivers quality mobility solutions. Its latest editions – a new range of evacuation and transfer products – are manufactured and designed by an intensive-care nurse.

When should employers have evacuation/transfer products on their premises?

Any building that has stairs and/or features long corridors, along which an injured, unconscious or disabled person would have to be moved, should have these products.

How many units should an organisation have?

We recommend one for each floor level.

Where should these be stored?

They should be stored next to the fire hydrant, or where the building’s main safety officer is situated.

What should employers consider when sourcing evacuation/transfer products?

Employees may be faced with the task of trying to move an unconscious person on their own – a “dead weight” so to speak. They need to be able to roll an injured person into a device then drag them to safety. Quality, service and training are all important factors when selecting a product offering.

What does your new range include?

It includes a full-body stretcher that has been tested in mining and air-lift conditions, evacuation and transfer seats – tested to a 300 kg weight capacity – and pocket stretchers for more affordable, lightweight options.

Do you offer any training on how the products should be used?

Yes we do.

What does this entail?

Initial training includes briefing each person involved and showing them how to secure another person, as well as how to handle a stair descent. We also offer a refresher video that staff can watch every six months.

Do you offer any maintenance on these products?

We do offer a maintenance programme.

How often should the products be serviced?

They will need to be checked for wear and tear after they have been used in a real-life situation. Skid plates can be replaced when needed.

What procedures should companies follow after they’ve used these products?

They will need to check for damage then clean and repack. The products can be steam cleaned or hosed down.