Key Takeaways
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A two-stage installation approach helps international accessibility lift projects stay on programme
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Early installation of fixed interfaces gives other trades certainty
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A planned gap between visits reduces commissioning risk
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This approach is especially effective on heritage and architect-led projects
Application Checklist: Is a Two-Stage Installation Right for Your Project?
✓ International project with long shipping lead times
✓ Tight programme on a heritage or architect-led building
✓ Phased platform lift delivery required to protect finishes
✓ Multiple trades dependent on final lift position
✓ High risk of rework if interfaces are assumed rather than fixed
✓ Commissioning window must be protected
Introduction
Planning an international accessibility lift installation involves more than selecting the right equipment. Programme pressure, shipping logistics, travel planning, and coordination with other trades all influence how smoothly a project progresses.
On complex projects, a single-visit installation can create unnecessary risk. A proven alternative is a two-stage installation strategy, where fixed interfaces are installed first, followed by the lift and commissioning at a later date.
This article builds on guidance from
How to Plan an International Accessibility Platform Lift Installation – The Madrid Case
and
Installing Platform Lifts Internationally,
and explains how a phased approach improves certainty, reduces risk, and supports better programme control.
The Problem: Programme Pressure and Interface Uncertainty
On international projects, multiple trades often depend on knowing the exact final position of the lift. When this information is delayed, teams may be forced to guess or pause work.
This commonly affects:
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Finished floor levels
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Glass balustrades and handrails
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Riser walls and surrounding finishes
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Clear opening dimensions at landings
Without early certainty, even small tolerances can cause delays or rework later in the programme.
The Solution: A Two-Stage International Installation Strategy
Stage One: Installing the Critical Technical Interfaces
The first visit focuses on installing all fixed components that define the lift’s final position.
These typically include:
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Upper landing gate frames set to finished floor level
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Lower landing frames
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Guidance channels
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Structural interface elements fixed into steelwork or concrete
Once these components are installed, the lift position is locked in. Other trades can proceed with confidence, knowing that floor levels, glazing, and walls will align perfectly.
Architect-led solutions such as the Wellington Lift and the Westminster Equality Act Lift are often designed specifically to support this level of early coordination.
Certainty for Other Trades
Early interface installation removes guesswork. It sets the exact final position of the lift, allowing:
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Floor finishes to be completed accurately
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Glass handrails and balustrades to be fabricated to final dimensions
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Surrounding walls and cladding to be finished without risk
This clarity keeps the wider programme moving and avoids late-stage conflicts.
Stage Two: Lift Installation and Commissioning
After a planned gap, typically around three weeks, engineers return to:
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Install the lift platform and drive system
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Connect the control cabinet or machine room equipment
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Supervise final cladding and glazing interfaces
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Test, commission, and hand over the lift
Because surrounding works are already complete, commissioning is faster and more predictable.
Compact, discreet solutions such as the Pimlico Lift particularly benefit from this sequencing.
Commissioning Risk Mitigation
The gap between visits is not downtime. It allows the site team to:
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Complete finishes around fixed interfaces
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Identify any clashes or tolerance issues
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Correct utilities or alignment before commissioning
This phased approach reduces the risk of unplanned return visits, additional travel costs, and delayed handovers.
When to Consider This Approach
This strategy is especially effective when teams are searching for:
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Tight programme heritage project solutions
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International lift installation planning guidance
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Phased platform lift delivery strategies
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Reduced commissioning risk on complex builds
It is also valuable when travel, visas, or shipping schedules make flexibility essential.
Single-Visit vs Two-Visit: A Comparative Example
| Factor | Single-Visit Installation | Two-Stage Installation |
|---|---|---|
| Total site visits | One extended visit | Two shorter, planned visits |
| Impact on finishes | Finishes often delayed | Finishes progress between visits |
| Commissioning risk | Higher if interfaces are incomplete | Lower due to pre-checks |
| Programme certainty | Dependent on all trades aligning | Clear sequencing for all trades |
| Cost predictability | Risk of additional return visits | Reduced likelihood of extra visits |
While a two-stage approach may appear more expensive initially, it often delivers better cost control overall.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a two-stage installation common on international projects?
Yes. It is widely used where shipping, travel, or site readiness cannot be guaranteed in a single window.
Does this approach delay the programme?
No. It usually accelerates progress by allowing finishes to continue while the lift is prepared.
Is this suitable for heritage buildings?
Yes. Early interface installation is particularly valuable where tolerances are tight and finishes are sensitive.
What is the typical gap between visits?
Around two to three weeks, depending on site progress and logistics.
Does this reduce overall project risk?
Yes. It improves certainty, reduces rework, and protects commissioning dates.
Next Step
If you are planning an international accessibility lift installation and want to explore whether a phased approach would suit your project, book a Teams meeting with one of our Project Managers: