LEIA Safety Warning

Lifting Platforms with One-Touch (Latching) Controls – What Duty Holders Need to Know

The Lift and Escalator Industry Association (LEIA) has issued an important safety warning concerning lifting platforms fitted with one-touch or latching controls. These controls allow a lifting platform to travel automatically between levels without the need for constant pressure on the operating button. LEIA’s updated notice widens the alert beyond one specific manufacturer, as similar controls may exist on lifting platforms from multiple suppliers.

This blog summarises the notice for duty holders, maintenance providers, and those carrying out inspections or thorough examinations.

Why This Warning Has Been Issued

Latching or automatic controls have been identified as a significant safety risk. Unlike “hold-to-run” controls, which require constant pressure on the button for the platform to move, latching controls permit automatic travel. This can introduce hazards, including uncontrolled movement or movement when a user is not in a safe position.

The dangers were tragically highlighted by the death of Jacqueline Langworthy, referenced in a Prevention of Future Deaths Report by the Coventry Coroner.

Understanding the Risks

It’s crucial to understand why these controls pose such a risk. When a platform moves automatically, there’s a chance that someone could be in harm's way. Imagine stepping off the platform only to have it move unexpectedly! This situation can lead to serious injuries or even fatalities.

Guidance for Engineers, Maintainers, and Those Conducting Thorough Examinations of Lifting Platforms with Latching Controls

Anyone maintaining or examining a lifting platform fitted with one-touch/latching controls must advise the owner of:

• The safety risks associated with these controls

• The existence of LEIA’s updated warning notice

• The feasibility of converting the platform to ‘hold to run’ operation, which is the method required by current standards.

  
  

Where conversion is feasible, this is the recommended course of action.

Guidance for Owners of Lifting Platforms

LEIA advises owners of affected platforms to:

1. Contact their maintenance provider to assess whether conversion to constant-pressure controls is possible.

2. Convert the controls to hold-to-run wherever feasible.

3. If conversion is not feasible, or if one-touch control must be retained for user-specific reasons:

4. Carry out a full risk assessment, and

6. Ensure the platform is used strictly in accordance with manufacturer instructions, with appropriate control measures in place.

Note: Home lifts installed to BS 5900:2012 are not included in this warning notice.

Regulatory and Standards Background

Before 2008

Before the introduction of The Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008 and BS EN 81-41:2010, some lifting platforms were installed with latching controls. These earlier designs may still be in service.

Current Requirements

BS EN 81-41:2010 requires hold-to-run controls for lifting platforms. The Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008 (EHSR 6.2) specify:

“The control devices for these movements must be of the hold-to-run type except where the carrier itself is completely enclosed.”

Most lifting platforms are not completely enclosed (unlike conventional lift cars), so latching controls would not meet this requirement.

Some fully enclosed lifting appliances fitted with full-height light curtains may address the associated risk, but these appliances are not covered by the LEIA warning notice.

Situations Where Latching Controls May Have Been Installed

Latching controls are sometimes provided when users may be unable to maintain pressure on the button for the required travel time. Even in these cases, LEIA advises that a risk assessment is essential, taking into account:

• The specific installation

• The manufacturer’s instructions

• The operational characteristics of the platform

  
  

Correct Use and Known Misuse Risks

Owners must ensure their lifting platform is used strictly in line with manufacturer instructions. This typically excludes:

• Carrying goods

• Carrying loose equipment

  
  

LEIA also notes previous incidents of misuse. Relevant previous bulletins include:

• HSE 2012 notice on lifting platform misuse

• LEIA 2013 warning on overriding door locking devices

• HSE 2019 warning on falls from height involving lifting platforms

• LEIA 2021 notice on lifting platform door locks

  
  

These reinforce the need for proper control, maintenance, and user training.

What Duty Holders Should Do Now

If you own or manage a lifting platform:

1. Check whether the platform uses one-touch/latching controls.

2. Refer the matter to a competent maintenance provider.

3. Arrange conversion to hold-to-run controls wherever feasible.

4. If retaining latching control:

5. Conduct a detailed risk assessment, and

7. Implement appropriate control measures.

For maintainers and inspectors, informing the duty holder of this LEIA notice is now a key part of responsible maintenance and Thorough Examination practice.

Conclusion

LEIA’s November 2025 warning highlights a known and documented risk associated with one-touch/latching controls on lifting platforms. Duty holders should take prompt action to ensure their equipment meets current safety expectations and is operated under suitable controls.

EIS supports all guidance that improves user safety and aligns with statutory duties. Duty holders with concerns about lifting platforms, control systems, or regulatory requirements should consult their maintenance provider or a competent inspection body.

Staying Compliant and Safe

In the world of property management and construction, compliance with safety regulations is paramount. We want to be your go-to partner in ensuring that your lifting platforms are safe and compliant. Remember, safety is not just a checklist; it's a culture!

If you have any questions or need assistance with your lifting platforms, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help you navigate these regulations and keep your operations running smoothly.

Let’s work together to create a safer environment for everyone involved!