Lift technical information
Technical guidance for facilities managers, property managers, architects, developers and building owners who need clear, accurate information to manage or specify lift assets. Put your questions straight to our Technical Director, Andrew Harrison.
Topics we cover.
Lift regulations and standards
An overview of the key legislation that applies to lift ownership and operation in the UK, including EN81-20/50, EN81-21, EN81-28 and what they mean in practice.
Understanding EN81-21
The standard that governs the installation of new lifts in existing buildings. Covers reduced pit dimensions, reduced overhead clearances and how modern MRL gearless technology enables lifts in buildings where traditional systems could not fit.
What is open protocol?
A guide to open protocol lift equipment, why it matters for long-term asset ownership, and how it compares to proprietary OEM systems.
Gearless traction versus hydraulic
A plain-language comparison of the two most common lift drive systems: energy performance, maintenance requirements, lifecycle costs and when each is appropriate.
VDI energy classification
What the VDI energy classification scale measures, what the different levels mean, and how to use it to assess or specify lift energy performance.
Planned preventative maintenance
What PPM involves, how often visits should take place, and what a thorough examination covers.
Modernisation versus replacement
How to assess whether your existing lift can be cost-effectively upgraded or whether full replacement is the better option.
UCM protection
What uncontrolled car movement (UCM) protection is, why it is required on new and modernised lifts, and what it means for existing equipment.
Common lift faults
The most frequently occurring faults, what causes them and what the typical remedies are.