Whether you are a business owner or the owner of business premises, there may come a point when you consider whether it would be advantageous to have a commercial lift installed. In truth, the answer is almost certainly going to be ‘Yes’ given the many benefits that accrue from the fact that those using the building have an easier way of moving from floor to floor.
Once the decision is made, there then comes the process of determining many of the specifics relating to the lift’s installation, including the type of lift, which you would obviously need to discuss with the lift company you choose for the project. To help give you a head start in determining the type of lift, here are 10 key elements of a new commercial lift that need to be addressed and you can do so by considering the following 10 questions.
How Many People Will Be Using The Lift?
There are many reasons that knowing the number of people who will be using the lift is vitally important. This will have bearing on the type of lift, how it is constructed, and looking further ahead, the maintenance required and the longevity of the lift.
Which People Will Be Using The Lift?
Knowing which people will be using the lift helps determine many of the specifics concerning a new lift’s size and travel speed. Is it office workers only? Are potential clients visiting your company going to use it? Will it be open to the general public?
What Is The Building Used For?
Not all commercial lifts are solely for the movement of people from floor to floor. Some businesses will also need a lift for moving equipment or stock. This might mean installing two lifts if the capacity allows for this: one for passengers and the other for goods.
Is The Building Old, Or New?
If the installation of the lift is for a new building, it will likely have been included as part of the original design. If not, then it is a huge oversight. In an older building, there will need to be checks done on the structural integrity to ensure it is suitable for a lift installation.
How Much Space Is Available For Installing A Lift?
The amount of space available will determine not only the potential size of any lift but whether it is possible to have two lifts or just one. Bear in mind with space we mean both the area available and what is available for the top and bottom of any potential lift shaft being created.
Is There An Existing Lift Shaft?
This simple yes or no question will determine if a new lift shaft needs to be created, or if the existing one can be used for the install of a new lift.
How Many Floors Will The Lift Be Required For?
Knowing how many floors the building has, and assessing whether any new lift can service them all or not, will heavily influence the type and the design of your new lift.
What Are The Local Regulations And Standards Relating To Commercial Lifts?
Given the many safety factors that need to be part of any commercial lift installation, you must be aware of any local standards and regulations relating to commercial lifts before the project begins in earnest, as they will impact what potential designs are suitable.
What Should The Aesthetics Of Lift Be?
It may only be 4 sides, a ceiling, and a floor but the aesthetics of your new lift demand some attention and thought, especially if the lift is going to be used by the public and those visiting your company.
What Is The Available Budget?
No matter the answer to the previous 9 questions, ultimately your plans for a new commercial lift will be influenced most by your available budget, so it needs to be established from the outset so that everyone, including your commercial lift company, knows which plans are affordable.