Lift installations

Issue date January 2017

Reference documents

Please note that this list is not exhaustive. Check that the documents quoted are the most up to date versions. All new lift installations must comply with these requirements:

  • The Lift Regulations 2016.
  • BS EN 81 - Safety rules for the construction and installation of lifts Parts 1, 2 and 3.
  • BS 6440:2011 Powered lifting platforms for use by disabled persons - Code of practice.
  • Building Regulations 2010 - Part "M" - Access to and use of buildings.
  • BS 8300:2009+ A1: 2010 Design of buildings and their approaches to meet the needs of disabled people - Code of practice
  • Provision and use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (Puwer).
  • Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (Loler).
  • Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999.

Details of any non-compliance with Part "M" of the Building Regulations and / or BS8300 must be included in the Access Statement (see Equality and inclusive design) and agreed with the Oxfordshire County Council Corporate Landlord (OCCCL).

Details of lift installations must be covered during discussions with the Fire and Rescue Service see Fire safety strategy.

All new passenger lift installations with automatic opening doors must be fitted with full screen, full height sensors to the lift car doors as a minimum standard.

The use of fully enclosed platform lifts in schools with managed use must be cleared with OCCCL and take into account that the lift may be used independently by a member of staff with mobility or sensory difficulties.

For all new lift installations the provision of EVAC chairs must be considered as part of the project. If provided, EVAC chairs are to be stored in tamper proof containers fixed securely to the wall.

Where entry/exit to the lift is via the same elevation a mirror must be provided on the rear wall of the lift to assist persons in wheelchairs exiting the lift.

Audible and visual alarms must be provided on all lifts.

Voice notification must be provided to identify up and down on platform lifts and floor recognition on full passenger lifts.

The county council's insurance manager must be informed of all new lift installations whether installed as part of a new building project or whether acquired by the purchase or lease of a building.

Proposals for all new lift installations must be sent to the county council's insurers for approval.

Prior to first use of a lift installation the consultant must arrange for:

  • A thorough examination by the county councils insurers or
  • In the case of a new installation the thorough examination is considered to have been carried out by the manufacturer or supplier and confirmed in the "Declaration of Conformity" under the Lifts Regulations 2016.
  • Suitable and sufficient certificated training for site staff both in the normal usage of the lift and the emergency evacuation procedures.