Every electronic and technical item has a life span, and lifts are no exception. As the saying goes, nothing lasts forever. How old is your lift? How long has it been since you serviced it? An old lift can be hazardous and dangerous for many reasons, which is why they have become obsolete.
Why Are Old Lifts Not Being Used Anymore?
Depending on the type of equipment installed and its functionality, a lift can have a lifespan of 15 to 25 years. Building owners need to take this into account while planning the refurbishing and maintenance of their building. There are lifts in many places that have been running for 40 to 45 years, without any service or modernisation. Unfortunately, most of these lifts are not considered safe or reliable compared to the modern lifts being used today.
What Are the Signs that your Lift Needs to Be Replaced?
- Poor quality of the ride and dangerous floor levelling that can cause people to trip and fall.
- Extended periods of outage due to lack of spare parts
- Frequent passenger entrapments or breakdowns while operating
- High usage of electricity
- Slower performance
- Lift stopping below or above the intended floor
- High cost of repair and maintenance due to outdated equipment
Outdated equipment and parts of old lifts will eventually stop being manufactured, and many old lifts will either have to be upgraded or demolished as they will no longer be approved for use by the relevant authority. You should ensure that your lift is regularly maintained and does not run past its life expectancy. An old lift can cause a fatal accident, which can resultantly cause damage to the reputation of a building.
In addition, old lifts can suddenly start malfunctioning by causing sudden changes in speed, having faulty brake systems, not being able to open the door, and having erratic brakes. Moreover, old lifts are full of germs and bacteria, especially on the hand railings, doors, buttons, etc., especially if they’re not cleaned daily. One of the most common injuries that can be caused in an old lift is reaching out an arm to keep the door open for someone and the lift (without sensors) shutting the door immediately.
Victims or families of lift accidents can involve the police and file a lawsuit against those responsible in case of negligence. The company responsible for the manufacturing and installation of said lifts will have to bear heavy fines. The building will also be involved in the lawsuit as they allowed the lift to remain operational during this time.
Adelaide Lifts can help provide high-quality lifts and services to improve your building’s functionality and meet the requirements. Like anything else, an old lift will wear down faster when used frequently without service. It is important to call in the professionals and let them handle the situation.
If you have any questions or want to find out more about our services, please contact us here so that we can assist you.