Lifts, escalators and moving walks - Part 2: Passenger and goods lifts - Electric

AS 1735.2: Lifts, Escalators and Moving Walks - Part 2: Passenger and Goods Lifts - Electric

For engineers and designers involved in vertical transportation systems, understanding the foundational standards is paramount. AS 1735.2 provides the essential technical framework for the design, installation, and safety of electric passenger and goods lifts, ensuring reliable and secure operation in diverse environments. This industry-leading standard is a cornerstone for professionals aiming to meet stringent Australian safety and performance benchmarks.

What is AS 1735.2?

AS 1735.2, published by Standards Australia, is the definitive Australian Standard for electric passenger and goods lifts. It establishes a comprehensive set of requirements for the design, construction, installation, and alterations of these vital lift systems. Its primary purpose is to ensure the safety of persons and property, as well as the efficient operation of electric lifts commonly found in buildings across Australia.

Scope & Purpose

This standard governs the technical specifications for electric traction lifts intended for the transport of persons, goods, or both. It covers critical aspects such as structural integrity, machinery, electrical safety, and operational controls. While it provides detailed guidance for new installations and modifications, it does not extend to electro-hydraulic lifts, service lifts, or specialized lifts like stairlifts, which are addressed in other parts of the AS 1735 series.

Who Must Comply?

• • Primary audience: Lift Engineers, Elevator Technicians, Mechanical Engineers, Project Managers, Building Inspectors, and Safety Officers.
• • Industries affected: Building and Construction, Manufacturing, Transportation, and Facilities Management.
• • Compliance nature: Primarily mandatory, often referenced within building codes and regulations.
• • Enforcement: Compliance is typically checked by building authorities, regulatory bodies, and accredited inspection agencies.

Key Requirements Overview

The standard requires meticulous attention to structural loading and deflection calculations for supporting beams and overhead structures to prevent failures under operational and fault conditions. Professionals must ensure that machinery locations are appropriate, considering factors like accessibility for maintenance and protection from environmental hazards. Key provisions include robust requirements for electrical safety, including earthing, overcurrent protection, and the fail-safe operation of control and safety circuits. Furthermore, the standard mandates specific design considerations for the lift car, doors, and shaft to prevent entrapment and ensure emergency egress.

Related Standards & References

AS 1735.2 operates within a broader framework of lift and escalator standards. It is often referenced alongside AS 1735.1 (General Requirements) for overarching principles and AS 1735.3 (Passenger and Goods Lifts - Electro-hydraulic) for complementary lift technologies, ensuring a holistic approach to vertical transport system safety and performance. Designers may also need to consult standards related to electrical installations and building codes.