Last updated on 28/2/04
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Requirements of the Disability Discrimination Act

GENERAL SITUATION
Lifts, whether conventional passenger lifts, platform lifts or stairlifts, are usually vital in enabling wheelchair users and other disabled people to move between floors in a building. A conventional passenger lift is always the preferred option.

DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

1. The lift-car should be not less than 1,400 mm deep and 1,100 mm wide and the doors to the lift should have an opening of not less than 800 mm. These dimensions are measured between the structural walls of the car, with any decorative finishes being not more than 15mm thick.
   
2. The lift floor and the approach floor should be at the same level and there should be a clear space in front of the doors of at least 1,500 mm x 1,500 mm.
   
3. Controls, both for calling the lift and for operating from inside, should be between 900 and 1100mm above floor level. Alarm telephones inside lifts should be similarly accessible.
   
4. Lift controls should be identifiable by blind people (by use of embossed digits or Braille), and information by voice should be provided.
   
5. The location of lifts should be clearly identified and, within the lift, floor indicators should have large characters or numerals which contrast with their background.

CHECKLIST

1. Can the lift take a wheelchair? How many? Is there also room for a carer? ( )
   
2. Is there adequate room for manoeuvring outside and within? ( )
   
3. Are buttons within reach and is provision made for visually impaired people? ( )

DIAL Disclaimer
Whilst all the information given in this fact sheet was correct at the time of going to press,
DIAL Doncaster cannot be held responsible for any subsequent changes.