Beginners Guide to Lift Maintenance
While it may be a process that is sometimes overlooked, the effective maintenance of lifts should be high on the list of priorities for landlords and building owners. Not only is it important in terms of public safety, but regular maintenance can also improve the efficiency and longevity of a lift. If you are not sure of your exact obligations when it comes to lift maintenance, or how often the process should be carried out, the following answers to some commonly asked questions should help.
1. Am I obliged to keep my lift maintained?
The simple answer to this question is yes. You are obliged to keep your lifts regularly maintained. In terms of the legislation which covers this area, there are differences depending on the type of lift involved. A lift installed in domestic premises falls under two pieces of legislation — PUWER (The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations) and LOLER (The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations). Both of these apply as the lift is legally deemed as a piece of work equipment, so should be fit for use by both employees and the public.
2. How often should I maintain my lift?
The frequency of maintenance is dependent on the amount of use a lift gets. For instance, lifts which are present in busy office buildings will be subject to much heavier usage than those in a domestic situation and therefore should be maintained on a more frequent basis. Usually, your lift installer will be able to advise you on how often maintenance should be carried out.
3. What will a lift service visit involve?
A standard service visit will see the engineer check the lift for overall safety and optimum performance. The service process involves various safety checks being carried out and also the cleaning, lubrication and adjustment of lift components. Once the service is complete, the engineer will officially record any work it has been necessary to carry out, in addition to noting any recommendations for repair. You will be asked to sign off the service, so it is advisable to check the report thoroughly.
4. What if someone becomes trapped in a lift?
Since 1997, it has been a legal requirement for all new lifts to be fitted with a communication system to allow passengers to call for help in emergency situations. This ruling was to ensure all lifts complied with the European Lift Directive. Although it is not a legal necessity for a lift to have a phone installed (an alarm is deemed sufficient), many lift service providers will list an emergency number on the lift panel that those with a mobile phone can contact for reassurance.
5. Do I have to pay for breakdowns or repairs?
This all depends on the type of contract you have with your lift service provider. Most companies today offer a variety of contracts that will feature different maintenance and repair options. It is important that you are fully aware of exactly what is included in your contract in order to avoid any unexpected bills.
