Following 12 months of intense consultation and re-drafting the new BS6440:2011 lift applications standard has finally been approved for publication and adopted as from 31 August 2011.
This new standard is great news for anyone specifying a platform lift for public and/or commercial use as it offers three considerable benefits from a design point of view.
1. Height of Travel Extended to 3 Metres
Under the new standard, travel on an open platform lift is now permissible up to 3000mm (previously 2000mm). This level of travel has only previously been allowable for domestic applications so this opens up new opportunities for architects looking for a fast and affordable solution to an access problem.Furthermore, building regulations are to be revised to reflect that there is no longer a requirement for a full height door or enclosure.
2. Lift Footprints Reduced by 100mm
The new standard facilitates a smaller footprint for lift enclosures by reducing the need for trap hazard clearance from 150mm to 100mm. Adjacent surfaces between 100 and 300mm from the lift which do not form a continuous vertical surface, or, if there is a bulkhead, pipe or other projection within 300mm of the lift (a shearing/crushing hazard rather than a trapping hazard) there must be provision for a safe edge, photo cell or light curtain along that side.
3. Additional User Security
Finally, the new standard recommends that a gate or barrier is provided on the platform on all lifts in public places for added user safety. For travel up to 1000mm, the barrier needs to be 900-1100mm high, with an intermediate bar and a 100mm high kick plate. For travel over 1000mm the barrier should be a minimum of 1100mm high, again with an intermediate bar and kick plate.
Our EVO 300 Step Lift and EVO 350 Short Rise Lift offer simple solutions to changes in level and embrace this new standard. The EVO 350 is available with flexible travel up to 3 metres, and includes a platform mounted gate as standard. The EVO 300, with travel up to 1 metre, is now available with optional Bi-folding barriers fitted to the platform. Both lifts offer a discrete footprint and are practical and aesthetically pleasing solutions – ideal for creating a sleek, open look.
At Evolifts, we offer free consultancy, estimates and initial site visits, as well as excellence in product quality, installation and aftercare. Our comprehensive range is adaptable and customisable to meet the majority of commercial and domestic situations for DDA and Part M compliance.
Let us guide you through the ramifications of this new standard. Call us today to arrange a site visit or to discuss your plans.