Mark Chapman, general manager of platform and microlift division of Stannah Lifts talks through the types of platform lifts and looks at new additions to the offer
Platform lifts are governed by the machinery directive (not the lift directive), which means they are restricted to a maximum speed of 0.15m/s (approximately 20 seconds per floor). Most platform lifts have continuous pressure controls, apart from cabin models.
There’s a wide array of platform lifts in the market, but these types of lift can be grouped into five categories.
Open platform lifts or step lifts - Typically used over short travels, these lifts vertically move the user on a guarded platform from one level to another.
They travel up to 3m and are best where there is a small change in floor level or a low mezzanine. They are most often used where it’s not possible or practical to provide a ramp.
Enclosed platform lifts – This is the most common type of platform lift installed. The lifts are comprised of a structure, with a platform and control panel moving inside it.
As you travel up or down on the platform you see the inside of the structure. These lifts typically serve up to two or three floors but can go up to five floors, or 7m.
While some conventional platform lifts are marketed as capable of serving up to six floors and/or 12m or more, we’d recommend less, as a platform lift travelling 12m would take 80 seconds or more to go from top to bottom - a long time for the user to hold the button (especially if this person is elderly and/or easily fatigued).
Cabin platform lifts - These lifts are built in a structure, with passengers travelling in a cabin with automatic lift operation.
Cabin lifts include cabin walls, a ceiling, and a “virtual” or physical cabin door on the sides with an entrance and exit.
Unlike the other platform lifts we’ve spoken about, automatic controls come as standard, (rather than constant pressure controls) meaning the user does not have to continuously press and hold a button to operate the lift.
Low-pit lifts - Also called pitless lifts, these platform lifts are wall-mounted or in a structure and have the look and feel of a traditional passenger lift, with automatic car and landing doors, cabin and operation, but like other vertical platform lifts, travel at a reduced speed of 0.15m/s. These features make the lift easier to use and more appealing, with no encroachment onto landings.
A relative newcomer to the platform lift market, these lift types are growing in popularity, due to the minimal landing encroachment, small footprint and easy operation.
Inclined or wheelchair platform stairlifts - These lifts have a platform that follows the curve of the stairs and are suitable for a seated or wheelchair user. These lifts are a platform mounted on a rail. The rail mounting can be placed on either the floor or wall, or a mix of both, but needs to be suitable for the loads.
The lift can be operated by either the wheelchair (or seated user) or a nearby attendant through remote controls. As they do encroach, they are not suitable on stairs used for emergency egress.
Most inclined lifts are placed into existing buildings and as they are not suitable for pushchairs or standing users, they are often a last resort. One of the great features of these lifts are that they neatly fold away when not in use, making them perfect where there is an infrequent requirement for accessible use.
The process and safety features
All these access lifts provide disabled access in low-rise buildings where a passenger lift is not available (or it is impractical to install one). They can also be used for passengers with buggies and luggage, subject to weight limits, but typically aren’t suitable for mobility scooters.
Lead times for platform lifts vary, but typically take between 10-12 weeks from drawing approval, a key difference from passenger lifts is the quick installation time, which is between one to four days. Although for any lift requirement it’s always best to start discussions with a lift supplier as soon as you can.
While best practice is to install a passenger lift if possible, platform lifts have a small footprint, single phase power requirements, modular design with minimal builders work and self-contained structure options – all of which make them a popular second option for ensuring inclusive design.
New vertical platform lifts offer unprecedented choice
We recently introduced a new range of vertical platform lifts that offer a multitude of options for both residential and commercial projects.
The new range of platform lifts offers the market more cabin sizes, options, finishes and accessories, plus a strengthened after-sale proposition, which includes a 2-year warranty.
The new range
Midilift CL: Compact-sized and energy-efficient cabin platform lift that is simple to install and with a small footprint. It is a hydraulic lift with a hinged landing door in a choice of panoramic or vision panel.
Midilift CLS: A stylish, hydraulic cabin platform lift with automatic sliding doors and the appearance of a conventional passenger lift with energy-efficient performance and space-saving design. Indoor and outdoor options are available
Midilift PL: A simple, convenient, and versatile screw driven platform lift that provides simple step-free access in buildings where space is limited. It is suitable for up to five people (340kg to 400kg) 12m (5 stops) or up to 3m for half height gate option.
The new range is all about extending choice both in products offered and improved maintenance package. There really are compelling reasons why specifiers should take a look at our platform lifts.
Stannah is a leader in the UK lift market and was founded over 150 years ago. Today it supplys passenger lifts, platform lifts, service and goods lifts, backed up by our network of 11 service branches across the UK, providing local maintenance and repair - wherever and whenever it’s needed.
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