Limited Use Limited Application (LULA Elevators)

A LULA elevator is a unique device that incorporates elements of a passenger elevator and an accessibility lift. While accessibility lifts are inspected under the B-355 code, LULA's are inspected under the elevator code (B-44). The major benefits to the end user can be summarized as follows:

• Automatic operation - unlike accessibility lifts you do not have to constantly hold the button to operate the device 
• Automatic sliding elevator doors - most accessibility lifts come standard with either swing gates or doors. The automatic sliding door allows for easier access to and from the car.
• Capacity - a LULA is typically rated at 1400lbs. Closed cab vertical platform lifts can have a capacity of up to 1400 lbs, but they are often rated at 1000lbs. Open cab vertical platform lifts start at capacities of as little as 550 lbs but are often rated at 750lbs.
• Car door - Accessibility lifts are not allowed to have a car door travel with the lift. As the device travels from floor to floor you can see the wall passing by. A LULA has a sliding elevator door that travels with the car. When you reach the desired floor, both the car door and the landing entrance door automatically open.

These features give the LULA the "feel" of a passenger elevator without some of the costly contractual work required. A LULA will usually require a pit of 14 inches rather than the 48 inches that is required for most passenger elevators. The hoistway construction is often simpler also. Typically a LULA's load is cantilevered off of one load bearing wall.

There are however code restrictions that must be considered when proposing a LULA.

• LULA's have a maximum travel of 7.5 meters (fire service will be required if the device travels more than 7 meters)
• LULA's have a maximum car size of 18 square feet (this will not accommodate a stretcher)
• The maximum speed of 40 feet per minute is slower than what you will find offered with regular passenger elevators.
• Just like passenger elevators, LULA's will require regular maintenance.
• A LULA must be installed under the supervision of a licensed elevator mechanic. Check to make sure that the company you choose to deal with has a local mechanic on staff.

LULA's are a great solution you will find installed in community centers, churches, schools, and anywhere that the travel is limited and an accessibility need exists.

For more code information and devices available in the province of Alberta please visit Canwest Elevators.

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