Accessibility through DDA lift technology
For many disabled individuals, the ability to move around freely is a challenge. This
challenge is even more pronounced when it comes to accessing public places like offices,
shopping centres, restaurants, and other establishments. That’s why the introduction of
the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) lift technology has been a game-changer for
disabled people seeking access to public spaces. Let’s take a look at how DDA lifts provide a
viable solution for those who require accessibility.
What are DDA lifts?
DDA lifts are elevators that are designed specifically to meet the requirements of the
Disability Discrimination Act (DDA). These lifts are usually installed in commercial spaces
such as offices and retail stores so that disabled customers can easily access different
floors or areas within the building. By including these lifts as part of their design plan,
businesses can ensure full compliance with DDA regulations and make their premises more
accessible for disabled visitors.
Five benefits of installing DDA lifts you have to know.
1. Safety
One of the main benefits of using DDA lifts is that they increase safety for those who
require assistance accessing certain areas. With the right design and installation, these lifts
can help minimise the risk of falls or other accidents while ensuring users can access the
building safely and securely. This is especially important for those who use wheelchairs or
are otherwise limited in mobility.
2. Cost-effective
Installing a traditional lift can be costly, not to mention time-consuming. By contrast,
installing a DDA lift is much more cost-effective and can be done quickly and efficiently with
minimal disruption to the surrounding area. This makes them ideal for use in buildings
where a full lift may not be practical or feasible due to budget constraints or space
limitations.
3. Accessibility
Another great benefit of DDA lifts is that they provide an accessible solution for people with
disabilities or limited mobility, allowing them to access hard-to-reach places that would
otherwise be inaccessible without assistance from others. Additionally, these lifts also allow
wheelchair users to move more easily between floors without having to transfer out of
their wheelchairs.
4. Durability
These types of lifts are designed with durability in mind so they can stand up against
everyday wear and tear, as well as frequent use without losing any functionality over time.
This makes them ideal for both public spaces such as shopping centres or other
commercial spaces, as well as private homes where family members may require a little
extra help getting around on their terms.
5. Flexibility
Last but not least, one advantage of using DDA lifts is that they come in various sizes and
styles, so you can find one that fits your needs perfectly without sacrificing style or comfort
along the way.
Read more of our DDA lift blogs today!
If you're interested in reading more of our DDA lift blogs, be sure to check out another one
of our blogs here: Why Lift Servicing Is So Important for Lift Owners.
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Improve accessibility in your buildings with Sesame Access Systems!
At Sesame Access Systems, we believe that every building should be accessible to
everyone. That's why we work closely with our clients to plan and design DDA lifts that will
enhance the accessibility of their buildings. Every lift we install is tailored to the needs of
our clients, and their clients, as well as the physical features and dimensions of their
properties.
Everything you need to know before installing DDA lifts.
What is a DDA lift?
A DDA lift is a Disabled Discrimination Act (DDA)-compliant lift that is designed and
manufactured to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their physical abilities, can safely
access public buildings and other services.
What is the main benefit of DDA lifts?
The main benefit of having a DDA lift is that it provides increased safety and convenience
for everyone using the building, regardless of physical abilities. The level floors created by
these lifts create easy navigation and reduce the chance of any kind of injury due to
tripping over steps or navigating around furniture on higher floors. Disabled users get extra
wide stairs and larger support rails that can be accessed with ease.
What is the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA)?
The Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) refers to a piece of civil rights legislation in the
United Kingdom that was designed to protect people with disabilities from discrimination.
The law prohibits disability-based discrimination in employment, education, access to
goods and services, transport, disposal of premises and other activities.
In terms of building accessibility, the DDA requires that new buildings and any substantial
alterations to existing buildings must be built to be accessible and usable by individuals
with disabilities. This includes, but is not limited to, providing accessible entrances, exits,
and toilets and ensuring that common areas, such as lobbies and corridors, are wide
enough to accommodate wheelchairs.
It's worth noting that the Equality Act 2010 replaced DDA and provides the same protection
for people with disabilities.
What makes a building DDA-compliant?
In the UK, a DDA lift must meet the requirements of the relevant British standards to be
officially classed as accessible and ‘suitable for use’ by disabled persons. These include the
BS EN 81-41: 2018 Lift Regulations, which set out what lifts must do in terms of identifying
users who have mobility limitations and detecting potential hazards
Further requirements set out by Section 2(8) of The Equality Act 2010 state that ‘Any service
provided must have due regard for disability when planning or making any alterations’ –
this includes providing suitable access solutions such as wheelchair ramps or lifts for those
who require them.
What is the life expectancy of a DDA lift?
The life expectancy of a DDA lift depends on a few factors, such as the material it is made
from, the frequency of usage, and how well-maintained it is.
Generally speaking, though, you could expect your DDA lift to last anywhere between 10 to
20 years, depending on these aforementioned factors. Regularly servicing and maintaining
your lifts will ensure that they remain safe and will aid in prolonging their lifespan –
something worth considering when investing in such elevators!