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Type A Platform Lift
When the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (DDA) was first introduced one can imagine the concern of organisations, facility managers, architects and designers as they struggled to see how they could possibly introduce disabled access into a building that simply hadn’t been designed to accommodate such an alteration. There was also probably the fear of huge financial outlays and potential disruption to business – even the thought of having to install unsightly cumbersome access products would have been cause for concern, and quite rightly so, as these devices have historically been rather obtrusive in their appearance.
For these reasons, enforcing the Act has been a slow process and the lack of landmark court cases for non-compliance has done little to progress the cause nationally as many public buildings still haven’t achieved disabled access. According to The Employers’ Forum Disability Standard 2007, which enables organisations to accurately measure their performance on disability, most, but not all, are taking action to ensure their environment is accessible, and 71% ensure that when premises are relocated there are no barriers in the built environment for employees, customers or visitors.
Although this statistic shows progress, until these improvements have been made nationally, the estimated ten million people in the UK with some form of disability could still find it difficult to gain access into public buildings.
Changing attitudes An important part of implementing change is having the solutions. Modifying an existing building to accommodate disabled access in some cases might be completely impossible. However, if it’s a reasonable adjustment then it shouldn’t pose a huge architectural challenge particularly now that the platform lift has become advanced in its engineering and design.
The gap in design is closing between passenger lifts and platform lifts.
There is no longer a distinct difference in appearance, as platform lifts have become aesthetically more pleasing with their glass-fronted doors, use of contemporary stainless steel and bespoke designs to complement a décor. This level of flexibility creates new openings, literally, for buildings that require modifications to be in keeping with the existing architecture and also repositions platform lifts in prime spots rather than being tucked away in a corner.
Part of this liberation of platform lifts is the fact they can independently reach new heights. Freestanding platform lifts come complete with their own shaft and can be installed with minimum disruption. Renowned for their autonomy, these types of lifts have become one of the most attractive solutions for reaching heights of up to 13m. The glazed or one hour fire-rated shaft can be erected by simply cutting a 50mm pit in the floor with a 3- or single-phase power supply.
This model of platform lift eliminates the need to dig down into the foundations which could incur extra labour costs and cause disruption to business – in many cases, this type of lift can be installed in under a week.
There is also huge potential for listed properties, as freestanding lifts do not require any wall fixings, therefore glazed tiles or marble remain untouched. Chic designs of platform lifts are now installed in prime locations, for example, in the flagship Hugo Boss store in Sloane Square. Although the building is listed, the store features a stylish futuristic freestanding platform lift that reflects the company’s image.
Of course, it’s not just internally that platform lifts have made an impact with their flexible design. A dental practice, located in The Butts conservation area which is renowned for its splendid 18th century Grade II listed buildings and historical value, achieved disabled access to its basement by using a simple screw and nut driven platform lift. To remain in keeping with the existing architecture of the building, the lift was finished in black to complement the black balustrades on the wall. Its open design, which uses large glass safety panels and solid stainless steel details, provided a stylish and elegant look that complements the distinct Gothic appearance of this Victorian property.
Access for All Ease of installation, progression in design and superior engineering of platform lifts is continually breaking through architectural barriers and eliminating initial concerns of cost, disruption to business and aesthetics. Without these fears, there is no good reason why public buildings cannot achieve disabled access and seize the opportunity to enhance the buildings’ offering to the public by creating a positive experience for all.
