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2024.05.14
FOS 2024-01: Alarm device on stairlifts and platform lifts without shafts
Question: When can deviations be made from the requirements for two-way voice communication on chair/stair lifts according to EN 81-40 and platform lifts without shafts according to the Machinery Directive?
Prerequisite: Before installation, negotiations must take place between the owner or the person otherwise responsible for the installation and the elevator installer.
Answer: After a consultation meeting with the Swedish National Board of Housing, Building and Planning.
2023-10-24. 2006/42/EC Machinery Directive
1.5.14 Risk of being trapped in a machine
Machinery must be designed, constructed or equipped with devices to prevent a person from becoming trapped inside it, or, if that is not possible, with a device to call for help.
Guidance for application of the Machinery Directive
2006/42/EC § 236 Risk of being trapped The requirement in point 1.5.14 applies in cases where it is not possible to completely avoid people being within the enclosed area of a machine.
The requirement also applies to load carriers in certain types of machinery intended for lifting persons, if there is a risk that the user could be trapped if the load carrier becomes stuck at a certain height or between fixed landings. The risk of a person becoming trapped in a control position at a high height, for example in the event of sudden incapacity, should also be taken into account.
EN 81-40 Stairlifts and platform lifts moving along an inclined path, intended for people with reduced mobility
Section 5 Safety requirements and/or protective measures
5.5.16.1.1 A two-way communication device shall be provided; the device shall be mounted to enable the user to call for external assistance.
Note: The alarm device may be omitted where constant assistance is always available or where alternative two-way communication is installed in the building that can be activated from all positions of the stairlift.
In cases where two-way voice communication is provided:
If two-way voice communication is deviated from, documents/documents that prove the deviation must be attached to the installation and to the inspection body. The documents must certify and prove the responsibility for ensuring that the user of the lift always has constant assistance. The document must be signed by the decision-maker, normally a professional group that has the right to prescribe aids. This is normally not the user. A lift installer can never be a professional group that prescribes aids. The deviation is linked to the user for whom the lift is registered; if the conditions change, a new assessment and audit inspection must be carried out.
Constant assistance can mean that the elevator is located visibly and within audible distance of, for example, a constantly manned hotel reception or that the user has the constant physical presence of, for example, a personal assistant.
Note: Examples of professional groups that prescribe assistive devices are occupational therapists, nurses and doctors.
Adopted 20240116, 0 revisions.
