Emergency and Evacuation Lift Inspection
An emergency lift is a lifeline during a fire, both for the emergency crews in doing an effective job, and for those inside the building who need to evacuate quickly. In order to ensure these lifts can be relied upon in an emergency scenario, they need to be regularly checked by an expert - this is a service that our experienced surveyors are proud to undertake.
Why choose Excel Inspection Solutions?
With a commitment to our client’s compliance and safe working practices, as well as thorough knowledge of UK regulations and guidelines, choosing Excel Inspection Solutions means that you’re investing in peace of mind as well as years of experience. We operate across the UK, carrying out inspections and checks for businesses and building owners before feeding back with detailed reports.
What is the difference between a firefighting lift and an evacuation lifts?
You may hear firefighting lifts and evacuation lifts referred to as part of a building’s emergency strategies, and whilst they sound like they could be similar, there are some key differences.
Firefighting lifts
A firefighting lift is a passenger lift designated to be used exclusively for transporting fire personnel and their equipment in the event of a fire. They are required in buildings with a floor more than 18m above or more than 10m below fire service vehicle access level.
Firefighting Features
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An interface between the lift control system and alarm and fire detection systems
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An emergency intercom system
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An emergency lift operation
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Trap doors
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Ladders
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A separate power supply from the rest of the building
Evacuation lifts
An evacuation lift exists within a building specifically to enable the evacuation of people, particularly those less physically able - it’s essentially a large passenger lift until an evacuation scenario (usually a fire) occurs.
Evacuation lifts feature
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A separate power supply from the rest of the building
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An interface between the lift control system, alarm and fire detection systems to support the safe evacuation of people from the building
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The requirement for trained staff to operate the lift
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Emergency intercom system
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Emergency lift operation
What are the standards for evacuation lifts?
The main benefits of an evacuation lift and firefighting lift inspection are:
Compliance
For your building’s fire safety considerations to remain compliant with fire safety regulations, you’ll want to make sure that not only has the installation been carried out correctly, but also that it remains in good working order, and that any repairs have been done to a high standard
Peace of mind
Of course, knowing that there are lifts installed that will aid the safe evacuation of those inside the building and the transportation of fire crews in the event of an emergency provides peace of mind not only for you as the building owner, but also for those that live, work, or otherwise use the building.
Our inspection process
Using our extensive experience, and our knowledge of the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, Excel Inspection Solutions can carry out safety checks that ensure that everything’s working as it should do. We work with building owners across the UK to keep them compliant and enable their firefighting lifts and evacuation lifts to work reliably if the worst happens.
FAQS
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How long will a LOLER inspection take?This will depend on the amount of van and car lift ramps you have in your workshop, but we’re committed to working quickly as well as thoroughly, so that downtime is kept to a minimum - we know you’ve got a business to run!
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Where in the UK does Excel Inspection Solutions operate?As we’re based in the South East of England, we largely attend to clients across London, Sussex, Berkshire, Kent, Hampshire and Essex. However, thanks to our network of surveyors, we’re able to offer our inspection services across the UK too.
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How will I receive my LOLER report?You’ll receive a digital copy of your LOLER report, which will include photographs, particularly if we find any issues. Access to your report is also made possible at any time through our handy online portal.
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Can you do a vehicle lift inspection at the weekend?Weekdays are hardly ideal for a busy garage, so we can accommodate weekends where necessary.
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Do recovery vehicles need a LOLER inspection?Recovery vehicles that feature a crane-style mechanism are classed as cranes, and therefore should be treated as such under LOLER regulations.
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How often should vehicle lifts be inspected under LOLER?When people are within the vehicle when the vehicle is lifted, inspections should be carried out every 6 months. Where people are not elevated within the vehicle on the ramp, inspections should be carried out every 12 months.
