Last edited 21 Oct 2020

Top factors to consider when planning to install a lift

1 Introduction
2 Capacity
3 Peak times
4 Safety
5 Design
6 Conclusion
7 Find out more
- 7.1 Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki

Introduction

Complex and precise, lift installation planning must be carried carefully to ensure, not only the use of adequate technology, but also efficiency for optimum passenger use and compliance with all health and safety standards.

Capacity

Knowing a building’s expected capacity and lift waiting times is essential before any detailed planning can start. Considering factors such as the function of the building, the inhabitants, and the inhabitants’ distribution within the building will be essential to understand the impact on the number of cars required. Should fast service be required, a lift car per 150 to 200 passengers may be needed. Should economy be the focus, a lower number of lift cars per passenger quota will be required, such as one car per 250 to 300 passengers.

Building height will also influence how lifts are installed, with the possibility of more than one lift core being needed. 30 floors or more may require banks of lifts with multiple shafts at different levels, providing sky lobbies for passengers to get on lifts to higher floors. There is a growing need to cater for higher numbers of passengers and taller buildings, and therefore to ensure that the right number of lifts is installed.

Peak times

In high-rise buildings, guaranteeing proper traffic flow management will provide efficient lift usage. If possible, knowing exactly when passengers arrive and depart each day and how often they leave the building in between those times will help to accurately calculate how many lifts are needed.

Safety

With safety being the utmost concern for lift installation, it is vital to ensure lifts can bear the weight of the passengers. This must always be tested for maximum capacity, to prevent accidents after the installation. Lifts must also have fully functioning alarm systems, should they break down and assistance be required.

The area in which the lift is to be installed must undergo safety checks before work begins, particularly in older buildings to guarantee stability. It is also important to make sure that any lift machinery can only be accessed by maintenance personnel and workers.

Design

Depending on whether the passengers are residential, corporate, or both, the lift’s design, how many are required, their location, size, and speed will vary. Practicality and aesthetics must work together with safety, guaranteeing a pleasing design that suits the building itself and its occupiers.

Additionally, whether the buildings are modern or listed, it is vital that lift systems are installed to match the overall interior design and décor, which often translates to the need for a close relationship between architects and interior designers.