1. PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION
Changes in level between indoor and outdoor areas.
Changes in level inside a building.
Insufficient space for ramps.
2. PLANNING PRINCIPLE
To allow people with mobility problems to have free vertical access between different
levels.
3. DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
3.1 General
 Platform lifts are special
passenger-elevating devices for the disabled.
Platform lifts can have either a vertical or
an inclined movement.
3.2 Vertical movement platform lifts
For maximum level changes of 2.50 m, vertical
movement platform lifts may be installed adjacent to the stairs (fig. 1).
For level changes of more than 1.20 m, the
lift should be placed in a closed structure with doors at the different accessible levels
(fig. 2).
Vertical platform lifts can have a variety of
opening for entry and exit (fig. 3).
3.3 Inclined movement platform lifts
Inclined movement platform lifts consist of
three elements: a railing, an electric generator and a moving platform or seat.
The operating system of the lift can be
either lateral (fig. 4) or suspended (fig. 5).
Inclined movement platform lifts can be
installed along the stair wall, as long as they do not obstruct the required width of the
exit. The seat or platform can be folded when not in use.
The minimum width of the stairs should be
0.90 m to allow the installation of a lift (fig. 6).
Platform lifts can be installed on all types
of stairs including switch-back stairs i.e. those with a rotation angle of 180 (fig. 7)
and spiral staircases (fig. 5).
3.4 Lift size
The minimum width of the lift platform should
be 0.90 m and the minimum length should be 1.20 m (fig. 3).
4. EXISTING CONSTRUCTIONS
Platform lifts can provide access to existing
buildings where it would be difficult or unfeasible to install a ramp or an elevator.
Inclined movement platform lifts are usually
used to connect one or more floors or to overcome split levels in existing buildings. In
buildings that are or would be frequently used by persons with mobility problems, such
devices should not be utilized.
Notes:
(1) Platform lifts are also known as stairway lifts or wheelchair lifts. |
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