When are platform lifts not suitable?

Sometimes, when we are trying to conform to the latest disability discrimination laws we can become a little over zealous and put in place measures which aren’t really 100% necessary. There are occasions when platform lifts are not suitable. If there is just a small incline which needs to be accounted for, or perhaps one awkward step or change in level then a ramp can often to the job of a platform lift and it can do it much more cheaply; there is also less messing around involved and no changes are needed to the structural makeup of your building.

At the other end of the scale, platform lifts are really not suitable for very long ascensions which are longer than the average staircase. It would simply not be safe, and indeed would take too much time, for someone to travel up several floors whilst on a platform lift- this is where a normal passenger lift with allowances for disabled access would be much more suitable. Essentially, you just have to use your common sense, it’s good to be proactive and cautious but don’t spend money that you don’t have; go with a ramp if it is legally acceptable to.

Plaform Lifts Information Guide: