At Lyfthaus, we design and manufacture platform lifts that enhance accessibility and meet the requirements of the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA). A DDA-compliant platform lift ensures easy access to buildings for everyone, regardless of physical ability.
Understanding what makes a platform lift design compliant and how Lyfthaus can support your project is key to ensuring your disabled access lift meets your client’s needs.
What is the DDA?
Established in 1995, the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) was the first law making it illegal to discriminate against people with disabilities in areas like employment, education, transport, and the provision of goods and services. This included requiring businesses and public spaces to provide reasonable adjustments, such as a platform lift, to ensure accessibility.
The DDA was superseded by the Equality Act 2010, which consolidated anti-discrimination laws across England and Wales. This Act mandates that every member of the public receive equal treatment and opportunity. Many people still refer to the Equality Act using the term DDA.
Properties of a DDA Compliant Platform Lift
When designing a DDA platform lift, our team focuses on several factors.
Platform Size
The size of the platform is an important feature of a DDA wheelchair lift. The lift must accommodate a standard-sized wheelchair, providing enough space for the user to enter, manoeuvre, and exit safely. DDA guidelines typically suggest a minimum platform size of 800mm x 1250mm. Lyfthaus offers larger, bespoke platform options for better user comfort and safety.
Controls
A DDA platform lift must have controls that are accessible and easy for all users, including those with limited dexterity or vision. Controls should be positioned at a suitable height for wheelchair users and include tactile and braille markings for the visually impaired.
Operation
A DDA-compliant disabled access lift should provide a smooth, quiet ride. We achieve this through innovative drive systems that reduce noise and vibration, making the journey comfortable.
Safety Features
Safety is a priority in the design of any DDA access lift. To be DDA compliant, the wheelchair lift must include a range of features to protect users from accidents and injuries. These features ensure optimal wheelchair lift safety:
- Automatic Safety Barriers: These stop users from accidentally exiting the wheelchair lift when it is moving or not aligned with the floor level.
- Emergency Stop and Alarm: Easily accessible buttons allow users to stop the lift and call for assistance in an emergency.
- Battery Backup: A DDA-compliant wheelchair lift should have a battery backup system. This allows the lift to continue operating or safely return to the ground floor during a power failure, maintaining wheelchair lift safety in all conditions.
- Non-Slip Flooring: The platform must have non-slip flooring to prevent accidents, particularly in wet conditions.
- Handrails: These provide support for users who need assistance with balance.
Lighting
Lift lighting is important for user safety. The minimum illumination requirement for DDA platform lifts is 100 lux. Emergency lighting standards are slightly different, allowing for a minimum of 5 lux.
Building Regulations
Platform lifts must meet relevant building regulations, such as Part M of the Building Regulations in the UK, in addition to DDA requirements. This covers various points, including the lift’s dimensions, door widths, and the gradient of ramps leading to the lift.
Why Choose Lyfthaus for Your DDA Compliant Platform Lift?
As an architect, selecting the correct provider for your DDA access lift is necessary to ensure compliance and suitability for your project and users. Lyfthaus offers experience in designing and manufacturing high-quality, bespoke platform lifts that meet DDA requirements.
Our commitment to quality, safety, and customer satisfaction distinguishes us. Consider Lyfthaus for your next disabled lift project:
- Custom Solutions: We offer fully bespoke designs, ensuring your lift fits perfectly within your space and meets specific accessibility needs.
- Architectural Design: Our team designs lifts that are visually appealing and integrate with the building they are installed into.
- Expertise and Experience: Our team has the knowledge and skills to deliver superior DDA-compliant lifts.
- High-Quality Materials: We use quality materials in our lifts for durability, reliability, and style.
- Comprehensive Service: We provide a complete service from initial consultation to installation and maintenance.
- Compliance Assurance: We ensure all our lifts comply with DDA regulations, relevant building codes, and standards.
Bespoke Wheelchair Lift Solutions
Lyfthaus is a creative designer in the platform lift industry, providing architects and interior designers with architecturally inspired platform lift design solutions. From vibrant to elegant, dramatic to understated, your platform lift can be a statement or blend into its surroundings.
We focus on both style and substance. Using innovative technologies, we design solutions that are reliable, DDA-compliant, and safe for wheelchair lift users. If you require a platform lift provider that delivers the complete package, we are the company to work with.
If you would like to learn more about our DDA lifts or discuss an upcoming project, please contact us today.