Is Buying a Used Stair Chair Worth It? Top Benefits You Need to Know

Do you know how many people struggle with mobility disabilities in the US? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 12.2% of U.S. adults have a mobility disability with serious difficulty walking or climbing stairs. This highlights the growing need for reliable mobility solutions—especially in emergencies that require quick evacuation.

As the demand for evacuation solutions rises, so do the legal regulations. In fact, many buildings of a certain height are now required by law to have stair chairs readily available for emergencies.

In this blog, we will understand the role stair chairs play during emergencies, and discuss legal mandates and benefits of buying a used stair chair. We will also talk about various used stair chairs available in the market and how investing in a pre-owned model is worth it.

The Role of Stair Chairs During Emergencies

Emergencies like fires, earthquakes, or hurricanes often demand quick evacuation. Stair chairs are essential for people with mobility challenges, especially when elevators are out of service due to power failures. According to fire safety regulations, high-rise buildings are required to have an emergency evacuation plan.

Hospitals, nursing homes, schools, office buildings, and public spaces must also provide stair chairs for emergency evacuations.

Without stair chairs, people with disabilities or injuries could be left stranded during critical moments when every second counts. That’s why having these essential mobility aids on hand is not just a safety measure—it’s a life-saving necessity.

Laws Mandating The Use of Stair Chairs in Buildings

Considering the safety and accessibility of individuals with disabilities and the number of emergencies occurring per day, various laws and regulations mandate the use of stair chairs and other evacuation devices in buildings.

1. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) - The ADA requires buildings to have emergency evacuation procedures for individuals with mobility impairments. Many organizations comply with this requirement by having stair chairs available for emergency use.
2. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) - OSHA regulations pertaining to the safety of employees at workplaces. According to this law, all employees including those with disabilities can evacuate safely. Businesses comply by equipping their facilities with stair chairs.
3. International Fire Code (IFC) and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) - Just like ADA, these codes mandate high-rises to have accessible evacuation procedures for individuals with mobility impairments during emergencies.

It is the responsibility of building managers, business owners, and institutions to comply with these laws to avoid penalties. More importantly, the aim is to protect the lives of individuals who may need assistance during emergencies.

Advantages of Buying a Used Stair Chair

The next question is—whether used stairchairs are a worthwhile investment. The answer is yes. Buying a used stair chair has a lot of benefits. Let’s talk about them one by one.

1. Cost Savings

New chairs are expensive. Used stairchairs don’t cost as much. In fact, they are available at a fraction of the cost of new stairchairs. Businesses, healthcare facilities, and individuals can provide reliable evacuation solutions cost-effectively.

2. Immediate Availability

New stairchairs may not be available readily. There may be long waiting periods due to manufacturing and shipping delays. But when you buy a used model, you can get the stairchair immediately. This is highly beneficial for businesses or facilities needing to quickly comply with safety regulations.

3. Proven Reliability

You might think that used chairs are sub-standard but come from reputable manufacturers. Since they have been used before, they have a proven record of durability and effectiveness. As long as the used chair is inspected and maintained properly, it can provide reliable service for years to come.

4. Environmental Sustainability

Purchasing a used stairchair upholds the concept of sustainability. Reusing stairchairs reduces medical equipment waste. In the bigger picture, it helps decrease landfill waste and supports a more eco-friendly approach to equipment acquisition.

Different Types of Used Stair Chairs Available

At Line2Ems, you can find various types of used chairs to meet different needs. Here’s a list of a few of them:

1. EMS Stair Chair Emergency 4-Wheels Heavy Duty Evacuation Chair (Yellow - USED)

This chair is built for heavy-duty use in emergency situations. It features four wheels for enhanced stability and easy maneuverability. The sturdy frame makes it suitable for transporting individuals safely downstairs.

2. LINE2design Stair Chair - EMS Medical Emergency Evacuation 2-Wheel Lift (USED)

This is a lightweight and compact stair chair ideal for quick emergency evacuations. Its two-wheel lift system allows for easy navigation even in confined spaces.

3. LINE2design-USA Battery Track Stair Chair Lift - Motorized Climbing Wheelchair (USED)

This motorized stair chair has battery-powered tracks that assist in moving individuals up and down the stairs with minimal effort. It’s a great option for facilities that need frequent evacuations with minimal physical strain on the operator.

4. LINE2design Emergency Evacuation Chair - Manual Track Stair Chair (400 lbs USED)

This stairchair model supports up to 400 lbs and has a manual track system that allows for controlled descent. It is a good option for facilities that need a simple yet effective evacuation solution.

5. LINE2design Motorized Mobile Stair Lift Climber (Red - Used)

This motorized stair lift is designed for smooth and effortless upward and downward movement. Its durable frame and advanced lifting technology make it a good option for hospitals and emergency response teams.

6. LINE2design-USA EMS Stair Chair - Single Operator Evacuation Medical 4-Wheels (Used)

The highlight of this stairchair is that a single person can operate it. In emergency situations where there is a lack of persons available to assist, this chair can be a huge help. Its four-wheel design increases stability and easy movement.

What to Consider When Buying a Used Stair Chair

When you are looking for used stairchairs to purchase, here is what to consider:

• Condition and Maintenance History - Check whether the chair is in good working condition and has been appropriately maintained.
• Manufacturer Reputation - Look for models from reputable manufacturers. The stair chair will likely be of good quality.
• Safety Features - Check for essential safety features such as secure seat belts, sturdy handles, and efficient braking systems.
• Weight Capacity - Try to find chairs that support higher levels of weight so that they don’t collapse in an emergency.
• Ease of Use - Choose a chair that is easy to operate so that setting it up takes little time.

Maintenance of Used Stair Chairs

New or used stair chairs need essential maintenance for smooth functioning, longevity, and safety. Some maintenance tips are listed below:

• Regular Inspections - Keep checking for any signs of wear and tear after every few days. Frayed straps, loose screws, and worn-out wheels or tracks need to be fixed before any mishaps.
• Cleaning and Disinfection - Clean and disinfect the chair regularly, primarily if used for medical purposes or in public settings.
• Lubrication of Moving Parts - Apply lubricants to wheels, tracks, and hinges so that the stair chair runs smoothly.
• Battery Maintenance (For Motorized Chairs) - The batteries should be fully charged at all times, as emergencies can occur without warning. Replace the batteries if they can’t hold a charge anymore.
• Operator Training - You can hold training sessions to train the staff to use and maintain the stair chair.

Following these maintenance procedures will extend the lifespan of your stair chair and allow it to serve as a reliable evacuation tool.

Bottom Line

Investing in a used stair chair is a cost-effective, practical decision. They are as helpful as new stair chairs with added benefits. Amidst all the expensive options, you can find an affordable, reliable, and environmentally friendly option that meets your evacuation needs. You can stop worrying about legal compliances once you buy this chair.