Jean provides a range of support services on critical compliance areas, including fire risk and general health and safety.

• Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans
• Health and safety risk assessments, policies and procedures
• Manual handling & Fire Warden Workshops
• Disabled access – audits, reviews, training
• DSE assessments and general office ergonomics
• Lone and remote working arrangements

Fire Evacuation for Disabled People

All organisations need to specifically address emergency evacuation or egress arrangements for disabled persons. The Fire Safety Order makes it very clear that all emergency plans must take account of disabled people and states: "a lack of resources is not an excuse for failing to provide this duty of care". Many facilities managers are, however, confused by the complexities that can arise in evacuating disabled people, and welcome an external adviser in developing robust and safe systems.

Jean has taken a keen interest in fire egress strategies for many years and, following accreditation as a fire risk assessor in 2006, she embarked on post-graduate research targeting carry down situations. This research was successfully completed in the autumn of 2009. Jean uses the experience and knowledge gained to enhance her training delivery and provide an extended range of support to clients to ensure people with physical, sensory or cognitive impairments are able to leave the building as easily and independently as possible.

All reviews take into account the following legislation and technical guides:

• The Regulatory Reform Fire Safety Order 2005
• Approved Document to Part B of the Building Regs 2006
• FSO Supplementary Guide: Means of Escape for Disabled People
• BS9999 Emergency Egress

Workplace Risk Assessments

These reviews are usually tailored to individuals who have additional access requirements. The assessment embraces arrival and departure from the workplace, together with an assessment of everyday activities. Often this involves a review of the immediate workspace such as a desk with computer, printers etc., as well as meeting rooms, ancillary and refreshment locations and travel routes in between. The review is completed with a personal emergency evacuation plan to ensure that the individual can leave the building safely in event of an emergency.