Lift Selection and Compliance

Passenger lift reviews involve assessing proposed systems and configurations. This assessment ensures they are suitable for the building. They must also be compliant and appropriate for its intended use.

Lifts are a critical component of accessible design. Incorrect selection or configuration can result in non-compliance. This may lead to redesign, significant project impacts and cost blowouts.

Passenger lifts must meet specific accessibility and performance requirements under the NCC/BCA and relevant Australian Standards, including AS 1735.12.

Incorrect selection or configuration can result in:

  • non-compliance with accessibility requirements
  • limitations on building use or approval
  • costly redesign or replacement
  • delays to certification
  • unnecessary Performance Solutions to address poor design

Early review ensures that the proposed system is appropriate for the building and its use.

When Lift Reviews Are Undertaken

Passenger lift reviews are commonly undertaken:

  • during design and documentation stages
  • when selecting the lift type (e.g. passenger lift vs platform lift)
  • where compliance pathways are unclear
  • for complex or constrained projects
  • prior to procurement or installation
  • when overseas units are ordered

What Is Reviewed

Reviews typically consider:

  • type and suitability for the building
  • compliance with NCC/BCA and AS 1735.12 requirements
  • car dimensions and door clearances, or platform size and gate clearances
  • controls, signage and accessibility features
  • integration with accessible paths of travel
  • limitations on use (where applicable)

Passenger lifts must include features such as compliant car sizes, door openings, handrails and accessible controls to support use by people with disability

Assessment Approach

Lift reviews are undertaken through detailed review of design documentation and technical information. This may include:

  • review of lift schedules and specifications
  • review of shop drawings
  • brochures and quotations
  • assessment of compliance with relevant standards
  • identification of compliance risks or limitations
  • recommendations on appropriate solutions

The focus is on ensuring the selected lift system is suitable prior to procurement or installation.

Key Considerations

Key considerations are assessed to ensure the lift is appropriate for the building and its intended use.

  • compliance with NCC/BCA and accessibility standards
  • suitability of lift type
  • functional design
  • integration with building layout and circulation
  • accessibility of controls and interfaces
  • limitations on use and performance

Our Approach

Access Central provides clear, practical and evidence-based advice on the suitability of passenger lift systems.

Our approach focuses on:

  • early identification of compliance risks
  • practical and buildable solutions
  • alignment with certification requirements
  • supporting informed design and specification
  • opportunities for universal design and best-practice concepts

Conclusion

Passenger lift reviews ensure that designs are suitable, compliant and aligned with project requirements. Early assessment reduces risk and supports efficient design, approval and construction outcomes.