Vertical Platform Lifts with Enclosed Platform & Automatic Sliding Doors

In recent years, BCA has observed the rising demand of vertical platform lifts with enclosed platform and automatic sliding doors, particularly in landed houses. Such lifts do not fully comply with EN81-41, which is an acceptable solution for vertical platform lifts (without full enclosure) under the BCA’s Approved Documents.

These lifts are typically of motor room-less configuration with large platform size, without sufficient required pit depth and overhead clearance. Hence, these lifts also do not comply with SS550, which is an acceptable solution for conventional passenger lifts with enclosed platform and automatic sliding doors.

Although the platform enclosure in such lifts eliminates the risk of users getting caught in the gap between the platform and the lift shaft, it introduces new safety risks including lack of ventilation and communication in a mantrap situation. Other safety hazards include unintended car movement, fire risk, unintentional access to controller, obstructed emergency escape path, and lack of safe working platform and refuge space for workers if the design of the lift has not considered these issues.

This Code of Practice aims to address the safety hazards arising from such lifts. You can download the Code of Practice for installation, operation, and maintenance of vertical platform lift with enclosed platform and automatic sliding doors and FAQ on COP [PDF, 207 KB].