Whether you’re aiming to make your home or business premises more accessible for those who rely on mobility devices, a platform lift is a versatile solution worth considering. For a relatively small investment, they provide a safe, convenient route between levels that takes up less space than a ramp and is easy to operate. Not only do they make life easier for those who use mobility aids, but they also meet accessibility requirements, which is great news for building owners.
What Are Lift Accessibility Requirements, And Why Do They Matter?
Accessibility requirements are guidelines provided by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) to ensure that equipment is safe, reliable, and efficient. When it comes to accessibility, vertical lifts must meet safety standards that cover aspects such as:
User Operation
Whoever uses the lift should be able to work it by themselves without help. All Advanced Mobility Inc. lifts are fitted with a Big Blue Paddle to make lift operation easy. One of the standout features of the Big Blue Paddle design is that the up and down buttons are large and brightly colored. This makes them easy to identify and use, even for users with vision limitations.
Doors And Gates
According to ASM standards, access doors to the platform can’t be manual, but must be powered. Once open, they must remain open for at least 20 seconds to allow the user time to get themselves in or out without rushing in a way that may compromise their safety.
Backup Power Supply
Platform lifts that provide a route to exit a building are required to have a standby power source, according to the International Building Code (IBC) standards. Lifts that comply with this code give great peace of mind to those who rely on them to get out in an emergency situation.
Minimum Dimensions
To meet regulations, the lift should be at least 36 inches wide. Length requirements vary depending on where the doors are located. If the openings are on narrow ends, the lift should be 48 inches, while those with doors on the longer sides must be a minimum of 60 inches long.
What Exactly Is A Vertical Platform Lift (VPL)?
A VPL is a mechanical structure that provides a way for those with mobility challenges to get into buildings or move between different elevations inside. In terms of design, they bridge the gap between a basic access ramp and a full-scale passenger lift. While the various models differ slightly, these lifts are typically open structures with low walls around the base and doorways for getting in and out. Unlike stair lift installations that carry wheelchair users along a rail up full flights of stairs, VPL’s travel shorter distances and move straight up and down.
How Installing A Fully Compliant Lift Benefits The Users
Ensuring that people with mobility challenges can navigate their homes, offices, and commercial spaces safely is highly beneficial in ways that include:
Boosting Independence
Studies have shown that a decline in independence can lead to depression and low life satisfaction. Comfortable accessibility solutions allow those with limited mobility to keep living a full life that doesn’t require constant assistance from those around them. Being able to do everything that makes up a regular day independently is a boost both mentally and physically.
Promoting Inclusion
Creating an easy means of access opens the door to an entire section of a community that would otherwise have been excluded. It unlocks work opportunities, broadens social circles, and tears down physical barriers that previously caused separation.
Boosting Trust In The Equipment
For those using the lifts regularly, knowing that the technology they’re depending on is compliant establishes a sense of safety. It also reduces any anxiety they may feel and replaces it with confident trust.
Compliance Benefits For Building Owners
The users aren’t the only ones who benefit from ASM-compliant equipment. While laws and regulations may vary slightly from state to state, lifts that meet the standards can prevent the headache of paying unnecessary penalties. Companies that invest in accessibility gain a reputation for looking after the well-being of their customers and employees.
A Lift For Any Location
Do you have a deck, porch, or stairs up to your front door? This type of lift is suitable for outdoor use, and installing one can make a difference to those who use mobility aids. As they take up a reasonably small floor area, they’re ideal for indoor use as well, wherever the floor level heights vary.
Why Choose A VPL Over A Passenger Lift
Installing a passenger elevator is an extensive undertaking that often requires extensive alterations to the structure of the building. Opting for a less drastic approach can save you time and money while improving the quality of life of those who use the building. VPLs can easily be retro-fitted and won’t be heavily disruptive during installation.
When Is A Vertical Platform Lift Not Suitable?
While these lifts are ideal for many situations, they do have limitations. When you’re looking at accessibility options, keep these in mind:
- They’re designed for shorter heights which means they’re not suitable where higher elevations are needed, such as multi-storey buildings.
- The platform area is compact and doesn’t offer much room for turning and maneuvering.
- The open design may cause discomfort for those users who experience fear of small spaces or heights.
Americans Are Living Longer, Vertical Lifts Can Make A Difference
According to the 2020 Census, the over-65 age group expanded almost five times faster than the rest of the population between 1920 and 2020. With advances in medical technology, this trend is likely to continue. You may even have noticed signs that your parents or co-workers struggle with stairs or aren’t as comfortable getting around as they were before. Creating environments that are welcoming for senior adults is something that has shifted from optional to essential.
If you’re looking for ways to make your South Florida home or office more accessible, speak to us today at 954-888-9292. Our team provides a free on-site evaluation and will work with you to provide a personalized solution tailored to your situation.