At Lyfthaus we pride ourselves on designing platform disabled lifts that not only improve accessibility, but also meet the requirements set out by the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA). A DDA platform lift makes certain that everyone, regardless of physical ability, can access buildings easily. But what actually makes a platform lift design compliant with the DDA, and what can we bring to your architectural project to ensure our disabled lifts meets your client’s needs? Read on to find out more below.
What is the DDA?
Established in 1995, the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) was the first piece of legislation to make it unlawful to discriminate against people with disabilities when it comes to employment, education, transport and the provision of goods and services. This includes mandating that businesses and public spaces must provide reasonable adjustments so that disabled people can access them.
The DDA was in fact replaced by the Equality Act 2010, which blended many of the anti-discrimination laws across England and Wales into one piece of legislation, and specified that every member of the public should be treated equally and given the same opportunities. However, many people still refer to the Equality Act as DDA.
Properties of a DDA Compliant Platform Lift
When considering how to design a DDA platform lift, there are a number of factors that our team must keep in mind.
Platform Size
One of the most important features of a DDA lift is its platform size. The lift must be able to fit a standard-sized wheelchair – this includes enough space for the wheelchair user to enter, move around and exit the lift safely. According to DDA regulations, the minimum size for a wheelchair lift is typically 800mm x 1250mm, but for more comfort and safety, many bespoke designers – such as Lyfthaus – offer larger platform options.
Controls
A DDA platform lift must have controls that are accessible and easy to use as possible for all users, including those with limited dexterity or vision. The controls should be positioned at a suitable height for wheelchair users, and should also include tactile and braille markings for the visually impaired.
Operation
A disabled lift that’s compliant with DDA should provide a smooth, quiet ride for all users. This is best achieved through the use of innovative drive systems that work to reduce noise and vibration, making the journey as comfortable as possible.
Safety Features
It goes without saying that safety is a top priority in the design of any DDA access lift. In order to be DDA compliant, the lift must include a range of safety features to protect users from accidents and injuries. Essential features include:
- Automatic Safety Barriers: These stop users from accidentally exiting the lift when it’s in motion or not aligned with the floor level.
- Emergency Stop and Alarm: Easily accessible buttons that allow users to stop the lift and call for help in case of an emergency.
- Battery Backup: In the event of power failure, a DDA compliant lift should have a battery backup system that allows the lift to continue operating or safely return to the ground floor.
- Non-Slip Flooring: The lift’s platform must have non-slip flooring to prevent any accidents, especially in wet conditions.
- Handrails: This should be included to provide extra support for those who struggle with balance.
Lighting
Lift lighting is another important inclusion that helps to keep users safe whilst operating the lift. The minimum illumination requirement for DDA platform lifts is 100 lux. For emergency lighting, there are slightly different standards, meaning that it can be as low as 5 lux.
Building Regulations
On top of complying with DDA regulations, platform lifts must also meet relevant building regulations, such as Part M of the Building Regulations in the UK. This covers various points, including the dimensions of the lift, door widths and the gradient of ramps leading to the lift.
Why Choose Lyfthaus for Your DDA Compliant Platform Lift?
As an architect, choosing the right provider for your DDA access lift is essential for making sure that your lift is not only compliant, but also tailored to the specific needs of your building project and its users. At Lyfthaus, we bring a wealth of experience in designing and manufacturing high-quality, bespoke platform lifts that meet and exceed DDA requirements.
Our commitment to quality, safety and customer satisfaction sets us apart from the competition. Here’s why you should consider Lyfthaus for your next disabled lift project:
- Custom Solutions: We offer fully bespoke designs, helping your lift to fit perfectly within your space and meet the accessibility needs of various users.
- Architectural Design: Our creative team works to design lifts that are as unique and visually appealing as the building they’re being installed into.
- Expertise and Experience: With years of experience in the industry, our team has the knowledge and skills to deliver superior DDA compliant lifts.
- High-Quality Materials: We use only the finest materials in our lifts for added durability, reliability and style.
- Comprehensive Service: From initial consultation to installation and maintenance, we provide a complete service that covers all steps of your lift project.
- Compliance Assurance: We are committed to making sure that all our lifts comply with DDA regulations, as well as relevant building codes and standards.
Bespoke Wheelchair Lift Solutions
Lyfthaus are the platform lift industry’s foremost creative designers, providing architects and interior designers with the very best architecturally inspired platform lift design solutions. From wildly vibrant to subtly elegant, dramatic to understated and everything in-between, your platform lift can stand-out as a bold statement or dissolve into its architectural surroundings – it’s up to you!
However, we aren’t all about style. Making use of innovative technologies, we work hard to design solutions that are reliable, DDA-compliant and, above all, safe for wheelchair users. So, if you’re looking for a platform lift provider that can deliver the full package – we’re the company to work with!
If you’d like to find out more about our DDA platform lifts, you’ll find some examples of our recent work here. Alternatively, if you’d like to speak to a member of our team about an upcoming project, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.
