Todays update is focusing on the ever changing standards and regulations associated with the lift industry. Like any industry directly involved with the movement of people, the lift industry is always striving to achieve the highest possible levels in Health and Safety. Just as the NCAP tests have saved many lives in the motor industry, the Health and Safety at Work Act, EN81, the Machinery Directive, LOLER and others have prevented countless accidents involving both passengers and operatives in the lift industry. However, on occasion there are incidents that highlight there are still improvements to be made, with high profile incidents such as the Broadgate accident that has the lift industry devising further safety measures to protect the public.

Ever moving target…

The latest amendment to the EN81-1 and 2 standard is A3 compliance. Any new lift from 2012 is to have a device fitted to prevent unintended movement of the lift car while the lift doors are open. There are many ways to retrospectively install this form of safety device on existing lifts, each with their own benefits and problems, this is where expert advice is critical in ensuring you make the correct decision. As with all health and safety issues, the ARDENT Lift Condition Survey report highlights deficiencies and recommends improvements, ensuring the Owners and Operators of lifts are well informed and suitably protected from potential litigation issues.

EN81-1 (traction) & 2 (hydraulic) have been “the standard” for new lifts in the UK for nearly 15 years and despite changes such as Amendment A3 and various other updates, they are due to be changed in 2013, with EN81-20 & 50 being put in place. How this will affect the installation, maintenance and refurbishment of lifts is not yet clear; however, one thing is for sure, there will be changes and expert advice will be paramount in ensuring these changes are correctly implemented.