SAA Lift Code, Part 8 - Inclined Lifts

AS 1735.8: SAA Lift Code, Part 8 - Inclined Lifts

For engineers and designers involved in vertical transportation, understanding the specific requirements for inclined lifts is crucial for ensuring safety, functionality, and compliance. AS 1735.8 provides the authoritative guidance for these unique installations.

What is AS 1735.8?

AS 1735.8, also known as the SAA Lift Code, Part 8 - Inclined Lifts, is a comprehensive Australian Standard developed by Standards Australia. It establishes the essential safety and design principles specifically for inclined lifts, ensuring these systems operate reliably and securely within their operational environment.

Scope & Purpose

This industry-leading standard governs the design, installation, and safety aspects of inclined lifts, which are transportation systems that operate along a fixed inclined path. Its scope encompasses various types of inclined lifts, their supporting structures, driving machinery, and critical clearance requirements. It specifically excludes general-purpose elevators and escalators, focusing solely on systems where the primary mode of travel is along a gradient.

Who Must Comply?

• • Primary audience: Lift Designers, Lift Installers, Mechanical Engineers, Building Inspectors, and Safety Officers.
• • Industries affected: Construction, Building Management, Transportation Infrastructure, and Facilities Management.
• • Compliance nature: While standards are often voluntary, compliance with AS 1735.8 is typically mandated by building codes and regulatory authorities, making it effectively mandatory for relevant projects.
• • Enforcement: Compliance is typically overseen by state and territory building authorities, engineering surveyors, and workplace health and safety regulators.

Key Requirements Overview

AS 1735.8 outlines several core requirements for inclined lifts:

• • The standard requires that the entire system, including supporting structures and driving mechanisms, be designed to withstand anticipated loads and environmental conditions.
• • Professionals must ensure that the inclination of the lift is clearly defined and that the design accounts for the unique forces and operational characteristics associated with this angle.
• • Key provisions include stringent safety measures for driving machines, ensuring reliable operation and emergency stopping capabilities.
• • Detailed specifications for clearances within the liftway and around the car are provided to prevent entrapment and ensure safe passage.
• • The standard necessitates robust weather resistance for outdoor installations, ensuring longevity and operational integrity in varying climates.

Related Standards & References

AS 1735.8 works in conjunction with other standards within the SAA Lift Code series, such as AS 1735 Part 1 (General Requirements), which provides overarching principles for lifts and escalators. Additionally, general structural engineering standards and relevant electrical safety standards will be referenced to ensure a holistic and compliant design.