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Adapting British Accessibility Engineering for U.S. Regulations: The Palm Desert Case Study

A Palm Desert case study bridging UK and US accessibility standards

Key Takeaways

  • Shows how Sesame Access collaborated with architects in California to integrate a concealed wheelchair lift into a new commercial building.

  • Explains how British-engineered lifts were adapted to meet ASME A18.1 U.S. accessibility standards.

  • Compares BS 6440 and ASME A18.1 requirements in a clear, extractable table.

  • Demonstrates how early collaboration resolves both regulatory and design challenges before planning approval.

  • Highlights Sesame’s Westminster Equality Act Lift, Regent Wheelchair Platform Stairlift , and Cavendish Platform Lift as flexible international solutions.

Introduction

A new commercial project in Palm Desert, California required a discreet, fully compliant wheelchair lift that respected the architect’s minimalist design. Sesame Access joined the design team early, guiding the process from schematic sketches to U.S. regulatory review.

The project illustrates how international cooperation between architects and engineers can deliver a lift that is both visually seamless and compliant with local accessibility codes.

Early Design Collaboration

At concept stage, the architectural team shared drawings showing a nine-foot-wide stair with a 3½-foot elevation change. Sesame engineers reviewed pit depth, guardrail placement, and symmetry to ensure the lift blended into the façade. Key integration factors included:

  • Pit depth of approximately 1.6 m (63 in).

  • Load conditions where no basement existed.

  • Space for control cabinets and drainage.

  • Handrail and barrier geometry to keep the composition balanced.

This proactive coordination prevented late-stage redesigns and ensured every element, from safety sensors to stone finishes, aligned with the client’s architectural intent.

Navigating U.S. Accessibility Regulations

Sesame Access products are designed for BS 6440:2011, but U.S. projects must comply with ASME A18.1 and local building codes. The table below outlines the core compliance differences considered in this project.

Regulatory RequirementBS 6440 (UK Standard)ASME A18.1 (U.S. Standard)Engineering Response
Minimum barrier height1100 mm (42 in)1100 mm (42 in)Taller solid panels added
Gap allowance100 mm10–20 mm edge rangeTightened tolerances
Grab-rail height900–1100 mm850–1000 mm (34–38 in)Integrated into rising barrier
Operation typeKeyed, supervised useIndependent use for all usersAdded automatic gates and safety edges
Standard referenceBS 6440:2011ASME A18.1Variations requested through AHJ approval


The Westminster Equality Act Lift met these demands through enclosed safety barriers, swing-gate entry, and touch-sensitive safety edges that stop movement when contact is detected.

Technical Specifications

Typical performance envelope for the Westminster adapted for the USA:

  • Travel height: up to 3000mm (118 in)

  • Platform dimensions: up to 1750 × 1092 mm

  • Load capacity: 385 kg (850 lb)

  • Power: 240 V single phase / 32 A supply

  • Control system: fully automatic, key-switch override available

  • Compliance variants: BS 6440, ASME A18.1, and local AHJ-approved adaptations

Such transparency in specifications improves project tender accuracy and enables facility owners to compare options confidently.

Working with the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ)

Each American project hinges on AHJ approval. Sesame supports architects by preparing full variation requests showing how European lifts meet or exceed safety expectations.

This process, previously used in New York, Los Angeles, Seattle and Miami, typically takes several months but establishes local precedents that streamline future approvals. Sesame’s experience drafting “as safe or safer” documentation gives building owners confidence in both compliance and safety outcomes.

Finding the Right Solution

For Palm Desert, the selected specification included:

  • Westminster Equality Act Lift for mixed standing and seated use.

  • Solid barriers and automatic safety gates for ASME A18.1 alignment.

  • Concealed pit and control systems to preserve architectural symmetry.

Alternative concepts, such as the Regent Wheelchair Platform Stairlift or Cavendish Platform Lift, were also reviewed for scale and material compatibility.

Global Expertise, Local Compliance

Through more than two decades of bespoke engineering, Sesame Access has proven that accessibility need not compromise architectural vision. The Palm Desert collaboration demonstrates how early planning, clear regulatory dialogue, and adaptable technology deliver both beauty and compliance across continents.

Further Reading

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Westminster Equality Act Lift suitable for U.S. projects?
Its modular gate and barrier design allows full ASME A18.1 compliance while maintaining minimal visual impact.

Can Sesame’s lifts be used for both seated and standing users?
Yes. Systems such as the Westminster and Regent ranges accommodate both safely and independently.

How long does AHJ approval usually take?
Between three and six months depending on city and state. Sesame assists throughout the variation and submission process.

Are these lifts ADA-compliant?
Yes. When configured under ASME A18.1 and local codes, they satisfy ADA accessibility intent for commercial premises.

Call to Action

To discuss an upcoming accessibility project or review your site drawings, book a Teams Meeting with one of our Project Managers:
https://www.sesameaccess.com/book-a-meeting