Admin to update content
Key Takeaways
-
Sesame Access supports international accessibility projects across North America, the Caribbean, the Middle East and Europe, adapting lift designs to match local requirements such as IBC and NFPA.
-
Hidden platform lifts can be engineered to comply with regional guarding rules, pit limitations, drainage needs and power supply variations.
-
Architects receive early-stage drawings and technical documentation to support permit submissions and compliance reviews.
-
Core product options such as the Buckingham Listed Building Lift, Mayfair Stairlift and Cavendish Platform Lift can be adapted for local codes around the world.
-
International clients benefit from global installation experience, as shown in projects such as the Apple Store Strasbourg, and from ongoing support through the dedicated USA technical guidance page.
Introduction
Architects working on projects in North America, the Caribbean or the Middle East often face a similar problem: how to provide step-free access on tight building entrances where a traditional ramp is not possible. These challenges are even more complex when local codes such as IBC and NFPA apply, and when approval authorities require detailed lift specifications before construction begins.
Sesame Access regularly supports international engineering teams by providing hidden platform lifts designed around the British Standard while adapting every project to match the host country's compliance rules. Many clients first discover Sesame through global case studies such as the installation for the Apple Store Strasbourg or through region-specific support resources like our USA technical guide. This article explains how the process works and how Sesame adapts designs to local requirements, based on a recent international project enquiry from an overseas architect operating under IBC 2012 and NFPA fire codes.
Understanding IBC, NFPA and BS Standards in International Lift Projects
When working internationally, the first step is confirming which standards apply to the project. In the transcript, the design team explained that the project operated under IBC 2012 and the latest NFPA fire standards. Sesame lifts originate from BS 6440:2011, which is widely accepted across Europe and is used as the engineering foundation for every lift.
To help global designers match local rules, here is a simplified comparison of key requirements discussed:
IBC 2012 vs BS 6440:2011 – Summary of Differences
-
IBC requires guarding only when the change in grade exceeds 30 inches. BS 6440 requires guarding to protect standing users unless a lift is classified for seated users only.
-
IBC focuses on fall protection and clear safety barriers. BS 6440 includes additional requirements for toe guards and rolling edge protection.
-
BS lifts often use a 100 mm toe guard suitable for wheelchair wheels, whereas IBC may allow open configurations when below the 30-inch threshold.
-
BS relies on categorised user types (seated-only vs standing), whereas IBC may allow standing users depending on the level change and guarding in place.
By reviewing these standards together, Sesame ensures that the selected lift configuration satisfies both the technical safety features of BS 6440 and the local expectations set by IBC officials.
How Sesame Adapts Hidden Lifts to Meet Local Standards
Although each project is bespoke, international enquiries typically begin with three core product templates:
Buckingham Listed Building Lift
This lift uses vertically retracting stairs to reveal a platform beneath. It suits narrow entrances and mixed-use buildings where pit depth and guarding must be carefully balanced with local rules.
Mayfair Stairlift
This lift uses horizontally retracting stairs and works well when there is a concealed void or plant room behind the upper landing.
Cavendish Platform Lift
This option is used when stairs cannot be modified. It sits in an adjacent planter or architectural recess and creates a fully enclosed platform suitable for standing or seated users depending on local code requirements.
All three can be adapted to match:
-
Local guarding rules
-
Power supply differences
-
Required pit depths
-
Drainage requirements
-
Standing-user approvals
-
Material changes for external environments
During the transcript discussion, the design team explored power considerations, drainage expectations and options for placing the pit within an adjacent mechanical room. This type of flexibility is common for international sites where access, climate and construction conditions may differ.
How International Approval Processes Work
Many overseas architects are in the middle of their permit cycles when they approach Sesame. To support this, the engineering team provides:
-
Early generic drawings
-
Pit depth information
-
Platform dimensions
-
Power requirements
-
Upper landing barrier configurations
-
Drainage advice
-
Notes on standing vs seated-user classification under IBC
These drawings can be shared directly with local building officials for review. If the authority requests changes, Sesame will update the design before any order is placed. This process reduces risk and ensures compliance is secured early.
For deeper insight into how Sesame supports complex international coordination, architects can also review related resources such as managing global installations or technical guidance for US projects.
Global Experience and Local Adaptation
Sesame Access has delivered lifts across Europe, the Middle East, North America and island territories. Examples include high-profile stores, large public developments and private buildings requiring fully hidden accessibility solutions.
Clients benefit from:
-
Onsite installation by UK engineers
-
Training for local maintenance teams
-
Remote monitoring of lift inputs and outputs
-
Optional periodic site visits
-
Guidance tailored to region-specific codes such as IBC, ADA, NFPA and bespoke national standards
International installations such as the Apple Store Strasbourg demonstrate how the lifts can be adapted to a wide range of architectural settings and regulatory frameworks.
Frequently Asked Questions (Expanded)
Can a Sesame lift comply with IBC 2012 or NFPA rules?
Yes. The lift is designed using BS principles but adapted to match all relevant IBC and NFPA requirements based on your building permit review.
What pit depth is required for an IBC-compliant hidden lift?
The pit depth varies by model. Some enclosed models require approximately 1.65 m, while retracting stair versions may require less. Sesame will confirm this during the design review.
Can hidden lifts meet NFPA fire safety requirements?
Yes. Fire behaviour, materials and sealing details are reviewed for every international project to ensure compliance with local fire codes.
What documentation is provided for approval authorities?
Architects receive scaled drawings, pit levels, power specifications, barrier diagrams, travel requirements, drainage recommendations and compliance notes referencing IBC or other local standards.
Can these lifts be used outdoors in exposed climates?
Yes. Drainage, sealing and material treatments can be adapted for coastal, tropical or high-rainfall environments.
Can local engineers service the lift after installation?
Yes. Sesame trains local teams during commissioning and offers remote diagnostic support for the life of the lift.
Call to Action
If you have an international project and need support interpreting local standards or preparing approval documentation, you can book a meeting with one of our Project Managers:
https://www.sesameaccess.com/book-a-meeting