Lifts, escalators, and moving walks - Part 16: Lifts for persons with limited mobility-Restricted use-Automatically c...

AS 1735.16-1993: Lifts for Persons with Limited Mobility – Restricted Use – Automatically Controlled

Ensuring accessible transportation for all is paramount in modern infrastructure. For engineers and designers, understanding the specific requirements for specialized lifting equipment is essential. AS 1735.16-1993 provides the authoritative guidance for automatically controlled lifts designed for individuals with limited mobility in restricted-use environments, offering a proven framework for safe and compliant installations.

What is AS 1735.16-1993?

AS 1735.16-1993 is an Australian Standard developed by Standards Australia that specifies the design, construction, and installation requirements for automatically controlled lifts intended for use by persons with limited mobility in designated, restricted-access areas. This standard aims to ensure a safe, reliable, and accessible vertical transportation solution tailored to specific user needs.

Scope & Purpose

This comprehensive standard governs the technical specifications for automatically controlled lifts where usage is limited to individuals with mobility impairments. It covers aspects such as speed limitations, travel distances, rated load capacities, and car dimensions specifically for these specialized lifts. The primary purpose is to establish a consistent and safe benchmark for the design and implementation of such lifts, ensuring they meet the unique accessibility needs within controlled environments without being intended for general public use.

Who Must Comply?

• • Primary audience: Lift designers, elevator engineers, accessibility consultants, building code officials, and safety inspectors.
• • Industries affected: Building and Construction, Manufacturing (of lifting equipment), Public Transport (in specific accessible areas), Healthcare Facilities, and Aged Care Facilities.
• • Compliance nature: While primarily a recommended standard for best practice, compliance often becomes mandatory when referenced in building codes and local government regulations.
• • Enforcement: Compliance is typically checked by local building authorities, statutory lift inspectors, and safety regulators during the design, installation, and commissioning phases.

Key Requirements Overview

• • The standard mandates specific design parameters for automatically controlled lifts to accommodate users with limited mobility, focusing on safety and ease of operation.
• • Professionals must ensure that the lift's speed and travel distance are appropriate for its restricted-use application, mitigating potential hazards.
• • Key provisions include defined limits for rated load and car size to ensure sufficient space and stability for users and their mobility aids.
• • The standard outlines requirements for the underlying mechanical systems, including driving machines and suspension elements, ensuring reliability and a suitable factor of safety.
• • Design considerations must also address the materials used, particularly for outdoor or exposed installations where weather resistance is crucial.

Related Standards & References

AS 1735.16-1993 operates within a broader series of standards for lifting devices. It complements other parts of the AS 1735 series, such as AS 1735.12 (Facilities for persons with disabilities) and AS 1735.15 (Lifts for people with limited mobility – Restricted use – Non-automatically controlled lifts), providing a comprehensive approach to accessibility solutions. Designers should also consult general electrical and mechanical engineering standards for components and overarching safety principles.