Disabled access lifts make buildings accessible for people with mobility challenges by allowing easy movement between floors. In this guide, we will delve into the types, features, and benefits of these lifts, helping you choose the best solution for your disabled access lift needs.
Key Takeaways
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Disabled access lifts enhance mobility and independence for individuals with disabilities in residential, commercial, and public settings.
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These lifts are designed with various safety features and customisation options, complying with legal accessibility standards.
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Financial assistance, leasing options, and government grants are available to help cover the costs of installation and maintenance of disabled access lifts.
Understanding Disabled Access Lifts
Disabled access lifts are essential tools in our journey towards a more inclusive society. Installed in both residential and commercial settings, these lifts have become a cornerstone in enhancing accessibility and independence for individuals with impaired mobility. Since 2009, Evolifts has installed hundreds of these lifts, underscoring their importance, widespread demand, and the need to meet disabled access lift requirements. A disabled lift can significantly improve access for those in need, and disabled lifts play a crucial role in this effort.
Understanding the nature, benefits, and different types of disabled access lifts is crucial to fully appreciating their value.
What is a Disabled Access Lift?
Disabled access lifts, also known as open platform lifts, are designed to improve accessibility and restore independence for individuals with disabilities. These lifts can be installed in both new and existing buildings and are suitable for a variety of locations, whether indoor or outdoor, including a platform lift. Platform lifts provide access to the entire home, up to six floors, making them a versatile solution for multi-level properties.
They come in various styles and sizes to cater to different architectural requirements and accessibility needs. Complying with safety standards such as the Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008, these lifts ensure a safe and reliable solution for users. Customisable platform lifts can be installed in both new and existing buildings, offering flexibility for diverse project requirements.
Benefits of Disabled Access Lifts
The benefits of disabled access lifts extend far beyond mere convenience. These lifts:
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Eliminate the need to negotiate stairs, significantly enhancing mobility for individuals with limited mobility
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Facilitate easy navigation, promoting independence
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Preserve dignity for wheelchair users
They also assist buildings in meeting regulations like Part M, BS 8300, and the Equality Act, ensuring compliance with legal accessibility standards. Access lifts are built to comply with safety standards, including the Equality Act and BS 8300, further ensuring their suitability for diverse environments.
Types of Disabled Access Lifts
There are various types of disabled access lifts tailored to meet different needs. Vertical platform lifts are designed to provide straight vertical movement, making them ideal for wheelchair users who need to move between different floors. Wheelchair lifts can also be an effective solution for enhancing mobility.
Inclined platform lifts, on the other hand, are designed to transport individuals along staircases, making them suitable for homes with stairs where a ramp may not be practical. These options ensure that there is a suitable lift for almost any accessibility challenge.
Key Features of Disabled Access Lifts
Disabled access lifts are designed with features that significantly enhance mobility and independence for individuals with disabilities. Equipped with modern features, platform lifts are designed to be safe, customisable, and efficient, including considerations for disabled lift dimensions.
These key features help in choosing the right lift for specific needs.
Safety Features
Safety remains paramount as contemporary lifts feature built-in safety mechanisms like emergency stop buttons and fall-prevention barriers. Additionally, anti-slip flooring is often included to enhance user safety. Each lift is developed with safety as a priority to ensure user confidence, making them a reliable choice for accessibility solutions.
These features ensure that the lifts are not only functional but also provide a safe environment for users, enhancing overall accessibility.
Customisation Options
Customisation options based on size and design make these lifts adaptable to various environments and user needs. Many home lifts are designed to blend seamlessly with home décor, providing a practical solution without compromising aesthetics. A variety of products and dimensions cater to diverse accessibility requirements for wheelchair platform lifts.
Common safety features also include whisper-quiet motors, simple remote controls, and battery backup systems, making these lifts both user-friendly and reliable.
Drive Systems
A critical component is the drive system. Some platform lifts are operated using a hydraulic system, which provides smooth and efficient lifting capabilities. The screw and nut drive system is another popular choice, offering reliable lifting through a rotational mechanism. Additionally, certain platform lifts utilise a chain drive system, integrating a motor and a gearbox to facilitate movement.
Knowledge of hydraulic, screw and nut, and chain drive systems is essential for selecting the appropriate lift.
Applications of Disabled Access Lifts
They ensure equal accessibility in homes, workplaces, and public buildings. These lifts offer essential mobility solutions, enabling comfortable and independent navigation.
Residential Use
At home, these lifts significantly enhance usability, with homeowners reporting notable improvements in mobility and independence. Local councils offer Disabled Facilities Grants to help cover costs for home adaptations, including lift installations.
During installation, designated coordinators provide thorough guidance and support, ensuring a smooth experience.
Commercial Use
Commercial installations demand careful planning to meet building codes and accessibility standards. Many local authorities provide financial assistance for these installations, with potential grants reaching significant amounts based on the project’s scale.
They ensure commercial spaces are accessible to all, enhance accessibility and user experience and ensure legal compliance.
Public Buildings
Public buildings utilise disabled access lifts to facilitate easier movement for all visitors, including those with disabilities. Hospitals and schools utilise these lifts to enhance overall mobility and accessibility.
Successful public building installations significantly improve access and comply with legal standards, boosting visitor satisfaction.
Choosing the Right Disabled Access Lift
Choosing the right disabled access lift enhances accessibility tailored to individual needs. Evolifts provides free home assessments, offering personalised advice to ensure the best fit for accessibility needs.
Assessing Your Needs
Assessing needs involves considering personal requirements and home layout. The initial consultation includes a thorough assessment of specific access needs.
This process involves identifying specific needs and discussing lift options, ensuring that clients receive recommendations tailored to their requirements.
Budget Considerations
Budget plays a significant role in choosing a lift. Costs are influenced by the number of floors, travel distance, entrances, and materials used. Installation costs can vary based on the necessity of structural modifications in the home. Manufacturing costs for lifts vary depending on materials and size options, further impacting the overall budget.
Additionally, recurring costs such as running, maintenance, and repair costs should be considered.
Installation Process
Installing a disabled access lift involves several steps. Consultation with a Home Lift Advisor includes lift options and placement advice. A Technical Survey is conducted to take measurements and assess building modifications.
Project Coordinators arrange building work and schedule a start date, usually taking 3-4 days. The process concludes with a demonstration and support for any questions.
Maintenance and Servicing of Disabled Access Lifts
Regular maintenance ensures disabled access lifts operate safely and efficiently. This involves regular maintenance, troubleshooting, and understanding warranty and support options.
Regular Servicing
Service agreements usually start at around £600 annually post-warranty. After installation, customers receive continued assistance and maintenance options to ensure optimal performance.
Follow-up support ensures the lift operates effectively and meets user needs.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Common issues like power failures and mechanical faults require professional assessment. Worn components can cause electrical malfunctions, necessitating professional repairs.
Improperly triggered safety features may prevent operation, requiring checks of safety catch hooks.
Warranty and Support
Providers generally offer a 24-month parts warranty, covering repairs and support. Warranty terms vary, covering parts and labor for a specific duration to ensure reliability.
Warranties usually include repairs for defects and malfunctions, offering peace of mind.
Financing Your Disabled Access Lift
Financing options can significantly reduce the financial burden of acquiring disabled access lifts. Options like leasing and government grants make these installations more accessible.
Leasing Options
Leasing allows businesses and care facilities to acquire lifts without upfront costs. It offers a cost-effective alternative with flexible payment plans spread over up to five years.
Government Grants and Assistance
Government grants help cover installation costs, enhancing accessibility for those with mobility challenges. Applying for these grants typically involves submitting an application detailing accessibility needs and installation costs, along with the necessary documentation.
Case Studies and Testimonials
Testimonials show how lifts have transformed homes, providing greater independence for users. Residential and commercial buildings have successfully integrated lifts, enhancing accessibility and satisfaction.
Residential Success Stories
Mrs Bishop specified a home lift into the build of her new home near Winchester. Originally driven by her husband’s needs, she has found unexpected benefits arising from it. “If not for my husband, I probably would not have considered having a lift at home,” she commented. “However, now that I have one, I would recommend a home lift for anyone of advancing years, or who has elderly friends or relatives.”
Mrs Bishop installed the Premium Home Lift which, with its larger footprint, can accommodate a wheelchair user and an additional person. With travel of up to 13 metres, versatile combinations of entrances and exits on three sides and an extensive range of options and finishes for personalisation, the Premium home lift is EVO Home Lifts’ most versatile home lift.
Following a word of mouth recommendation, Mrs Bishop went online to research before contacting EVO Home Lifts. “The service I received was incredible! I was researching online one day and I virtually had the whole thing sewn up the following day. EVO Home Lifts even arranged for me to see a working lift so that I could see it in the flesh in another home.”
Commercial and Public Building Implementations
JoJo Maman Bebe’s Kingston-upon-Thames store opened in 2010 and fast became one of their best performing. The UK’s leading boutique mother and baby brand prides itself on putting the customer first and has an unrivalled insight into the needs of mums-to-be and parents with babies and young children. The company’s property portfolio is self-funded and strategically managed by an in-house team.
Despite the store’s fantastic location and bright sunny first floor showroom, footfall to the upper retail floor, home of the maternity department, was disappointing. The team knew that making this space more accessible to pregnant women and those with buggies and young children could unlock the store’s full potential. Maximising valuable retail merchandising space, tight budgets and the impact of closing the store for building works were key considerations in finding a solution.
Following site visits by an Evolifts representative to assess the viability of a platform lift, an EVO500S Platform Lift was specified. It has a sufficiently large footprint to cater for parents with buggies and toddlers in tow but at the same time it would not have a detrimental effect on hanging space. The EVO500S Platform Lift was positioned so that it was highly visible to customers and glass panels made it feel welcoming. Installation took just three days, following which the JoJo team further customised their new lift with a beautiful child-friendly internal mural which reflected the brand perfectly.
Louise Jones, Property & Project Manager at JoJo Maman Bebe commented: “In many ways this was an affordable experiment because this was the first platform lift that we have put into one of our stores. It is early days but we have already benefited from a sales uplift in the region of 25% and, importantly, received great feedback from our customers, so we are confident of a long term positive impact. For us, the platform lift was a straightforward, flexible and cost-effective solution which was capable of being installed quickly. From the outset, I was impressed by Evolifts’ dynamic and enthusiastic approach – I knew they would respond fast and work well in partnership with my own team. I am already discussing options for further stores with Evolifts.”
Contact Us for More Information
For enhanced accessibility in your home or business, reach out for customised solutions tailored to your needs. Evolifts provides solutions tailored to individual lift requirements.
Their advisory services ensure customer satisfaction by addressing specific lift requirements.
Initial Consultation
Initial consultation involves discussing specific needs and answering questions. Clients can discuss their unique mobility and accessibility requirements during the consultation.
Serving England, Scotland, and Wales, Evolifts ensures comprehensive advice and support for all clients.
Follow-Up Support
Follow-up support after lift installation ensures reliability and user satisfaction. Warranty coverage generally includes repairs and maintenance for a specified period, providing peace of mind and financial protection.
Regular servicing, advised at least once a year, maintains lift functionality and safety. Troubleshooting support includes solutions for common issues and guidance on when to seek professional repairs.
Summary
In summary, disabled access lifts are vital for enhancing mobility and independence for individuals with disabilities. From residential to commercial and public settings, these lifts ensure that everyone can navigate their environments safely and comfortably. With various types, customisation options, and financing methods available, finding the right lift to meet specific needs is more accessible than ever. By investing in a disabled access lift, you are not just installing a piece of equipment; you are making a profound difference in the quality of life for those with mobility challenges. Reach out today to explore how these lifts can transform your space and lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a disabled lift cost?
The cost of a disabled lift can vary significantly depending on the type, size, and customisation options chosen. On average, prices can range from £10,000 to £30,000. Factors such as installation complexity, number of floors, and specific accessibility needs will also influence the final price. It's essential to obtain quotes from multiple suppliers to ensure the best deal.
Is it a legal requirement to provide disabled access?
In many countries, including the UK and the US, it is a legal requirement for public buildings to provide disabled access. Regulations such as the Equality Act 2010 in the UK and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the US mandate that facilities must be accessible to individuals with disabilities. Compliance with these laws is crucial to avoid legal penalties and ensure inclusivity.
How much does a DDA lift cost?
A DDA-compliant lift, designed to meet the UK's Disability Discrimination Act requirements, generally costs between £10,000 and £30,000. The price can vary based on the lift's specifications, the building's layout, and any additional customisation required to meet DDA standards. It's advisable to consult with suppliers to get accurate pricing tailored to specific needs.