Evacuation Chairs
Evacuation chairs are specialized devices designed to help safely move individuals with mobility limitations down stairs during an emergency when elevators cannot be used. At UC Merced, evacuation chairs are an important part of our commitment to inclusive, accessible emergency planning and response.
If you or someone you know need an Individual Evacuation Plan please reach out to the following offices:
- Student Accessibility Services (students)
- Disability Management Services (faculty and staff)
What is an Evacuation Chair?
An evacuation chair is a lightweight, folding chair with tracks or wheels that allows trained personnel to safely transport a person down stairways during an evacuation. These chairs are:
- Designed for use when elevators are unavailable or unsafe
- Intended for individuals who cannot easily or safely use the stairs
- Operated by one or two trained assistants
Evacuation chairs are not everyday mobility devices and should only be used during drills or emergency situations by trained personnel.
When are Evacuation Chairs used?
Evacuation chairs may be used during:
- Fire alarms or smoke conditions
- Earthquakes (after shaking stops and evacuation is necessary)
- Power outage that disables elevators
- Other emergencies where stairways are the only safe route out
Whenever possible, individuals with mobility limitations should first be assisted to a designated area of refuge or other safe location while emergency responders are notified.
Area of Refuge: Designated safer location in a building where individuals who cannot use the stairs during an emergency can wait for assistance from first responders. These areas are typically located adjacent to an elevator and are equipped with clear signage, two-way communication systems, and enough space for individuals with mobility limitations to shelter safety.
Where are Evacuation Chairs Located?
Evacuation chairs are strategically located in buildings with multi-story stairwells and high use by students, faculty, staff, and visitors.
Typical locations include:
- Near primary stairwells on upper floors
- Adjacent to designated Areas of Refuge
- Mounted in clearly marked brackets
Emergency Evacuation Chair Locations:
North Campus:
| Building | Location |
| Half Dome | Fifth Floor (across elevator 5E2, near 541) |
| Cathedral | Fourth Floor (across room 421 G) |
| Tenaya | Fourth Floor (across room 451G) |
| Mariposa | Second Floor (next to elevator 2E1) |
| Tuolumne | Second Floor (next to elevator 2E1) |
| Kolligian Library | Fourth Floor (across elevator, near 460) |
South Campus:
| Building | Location |
| Fred & Mitzie Ruiz Administration | Third Floor (next to 300A) |
| Conference Center | Second Floor (across restrooms) |
| El Portal | Fifth Floor (across elevator, next to 502) |
| Sentinel Rock | Fifth Floor (across elevator, near 502) |
| Glacier Point | Sixth Floor (across elevator, near 601) |
| Granite Pass | Fourth Floor (across elevator) |
| Health & Athletics Center | Second Floor (next to room 259) |
Training
The UC Merced Police- Emergency Management will coordinate training on the proper use of the evacuation chair once a year or upon request. All students, staff, and faculty are welcome to participate in the training to learn the safe and appropriate method to aid an individual who may need evacuation assistance in an emergency.
