Any building requires accessibility and this aspect has been overlooked in previous building designs. However, with the introduction of DDA lift requirements, the situation has improved. DDA simply refers to the Disability Discrimination Act of 1995.
This Act of the Parliament was initiated in the United Kingdom to make it unlawful to discriminate against people with disabilities when it comes to employment, transport, education, and provision of goods and services. The DDA lifts serve to make buildings more accessible to everyone despite their degree of mobility.
What is a DDA Lift?
DDA-compliant lifts are designed and developed based on specific requirements including design features, functions, dimensions, and many others. They serve to make public spaces more accessible to everyone regardless of their degree of mobility.
To accomplish this goal, there is a need to plan, design, prepare, and install new lifts with DDA requirements in mind. It’s also necessary to refurbish the old lifts to accommodate a range of needs. The lifts must conform to the requirements, specifications, and regulations to accommodate everyone regardless of their mobility status.
DDA Compliance Requirements
- Automatic lift doors should be at least 800mm wide
- Doors and access points should be easily distinguishable from the wall and surroundings
- The lifts should have level entry or access or ramp
- They should have two to twenty seconds of door-dwell time
- The lifts should have push buttons with minimum sizes and be easily recognized from their faceplate
- There must be a handrail on at least one wall or side of the lift, located about 900mm from the floor
In addition to these requirements, the lifts should have vertically arranged push buttons, sufficient lighting inside and in the landings, as well as emergency communication systems within the lift. The lift should also have a confirmation that it has reached the landing.
DDA-compliant lifts must have these requirements and more. If you want to install a DDA lift, you should engage a reliable provider like axess2.co.uk to ensure you get exactly what you need.
Reasons for Modernizing Existing Lifts
A lift is an important mode of transport that people use every day in various parts of the UK and the world. In the UK alone, there are numerous tall buildings that use lifts every day. With heavy lift usage, wear and tear of lift parts are inevitable. Lift owners and the entire management of lifts are required by law to maintain and repair their lifts.
The responsible persons should carry out preventative maintenance and repairs for the lifts regularly. Where they need alteration or modernization beyond DDA requirements, the responsible people should employ a registered lift contractor to inspect the lift and conduct necessary improvements.
Applicable Solutions for Lift Modernization
Here are some of the most important improvements that can be made in a lift beyond the DDA requirements:
- Installing a double brake system
- Installing an unintended car movement protection device on the braking system
- Installing an ascending car overspeed protection device
- Including an intercom and CCTV system in the lift
- Adding automatic rescue devices
- Installing an obstruction switch to protect the suspension ropes
- Installing an advanced car door mechanical lock and door safety edge
Final Thoughts
These solutions are meant to improve safety, reliability, and comfort in older lifts. Consumers should prioritize the first four solutions while considering the remaining on a case-by-case basis. At Axess 2, we offer seamless lift solutions with a wide selection of home and commercial lift products. Contact us to learn more.