Scope of Application

The scope of application of these Regulations is far from clear. Any completely brand new passenger lift installation will require full compliance with The Regulations. The Regulations cover new lifts installed within either new or existing lift shafts.

It is with the matter of refurbished lifts that the clarity fades. The problem lies in the fact that a clear definition as to what constitutes a 'new' lift has not been determined and, at the time of writing, still no concise European definition exists.

According to the Health and Safety Executive the Regulations will apply to any refurbishment that results in a change to the original Health and Safety characteristics.

This is clearly open to misinterpretation and error even within the lift industry itself. It is entirely possible that the replacement of a control system or drive unit in certain circumstances may in itself be sufficient for the Regulations to come into force.

The Lift and Escalator Industry Association, L.E.I.A., issued a letter dated 11th June 1999, which recommends that the retention of guides along with other minor parts will not be sufficient to prevent the Regulations from being applicable.

In all cases therefore the advice has to be to assume that full compliance is necessary except for the most simple like for like replacement of parts or components.

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