- They fit right on the stair way and do not require the same foot print as traditional accessibility lifts. When folded up they only take up about 11" - 14" of the stair way.
- They typically do not require much contractual work, which can help reduce the overall cost.
- They are an excellent solution for heritage buildings , or for buildings where creating an elevator or lift shaft is not possible
- They allow persons with disabilities to travel the same route as everyone else in the building.
- They can be installed quickly (2-3 days on site)
These lifts not only have the ability to accommodate straight stairways, they can also be installed on curving stair cases . The capacity would typically be 500lbs - 550lbs , depending on the model. Inclined platforms lifts offer a wide variety of platform sizes. It is recommended that you go with the largest size available especially if the unit comes with the side load feature (where the user is required to do a 90 degree turn at the lower landing). A quality inclined platform lift will have a Power Folding Platform as a standard feature. Passenger restraining arms should also be a standard feature.
Another option such as the Auto Fold feature may be required due to fire code regulations. A fire marshal may want to see if the lift will automatically fold up if left unattended for a period of time. This feature would keep the stair way from being blocked in the event of an emergency. We highly recommend this feature as it also deters vandalism from occurring if the lift is left unattended.
A fold down seat can be a useful option if the rider is not using a wheelchair. When these lifts are installed in public applications you can not be certain if the end user will be utilizing a cane, walker, or a wheelchair. The B-355 code is primarily concerned with safety, so a trained lift professional should be consulted when determining what practical options should be added. Simply satisfying the code is not always enough to ensure a successful installation.
If the wall structure is not strong enough to support the loads imposed , tower mounting the lift is always an option. Independently supported towers can be mounted directly into the stair tread and in the case of concrete stairs may need no wall support at all. It is also possible to mount the towers in the core of the stairway, leaving the stair treads completely untouched. It is always best to involve a lift consultant in the design phase so that the most appropriate mounting method can be determined.
A variety of colors and finishes are available so that the devices impact on the decor can be minimized. A stainless steel unit can also be provided for exterior applications.
Your local lift expert will be able to advise you of local code requirements and give you a descriptions of all the options available.
Canwest Elevator and Lifts is the largest independently owned elevator and lift company in the province of Alberta. With offices in Calgary, Red Deer and Edmonton, we are able to service the entire province of Alberta and Eastern British Columbia
There primary usage is to get and individual from one floor to another. The design of these vertical platform lifts is centered around accessibility (larger buttons, limited features). Accessibility lifts operate on constant pressure controls and can not be made to function otherwise.
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