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Vertical Retracting Stair Lift Options for 1400 mm Rise

A guide to bespoke retracting stair lift solutions for rises above 1000 mm, including barrier requirements and model comparisons.

Sesame Buckingham Lift with manual removable barriers

Key Takeaways

  • When a lift rise exceeds 1000 mm, users must be enclosed with 1100 mm-high safety barriers for full compliance.

  • Vertically retracting stair systems offer both manual and automatic barrier options depending on design requirements and budget.

  • Sesame Access provides three bespoke solutions for rises around 1400 mm – the Westminster, Buckingham, and Seattle models.

  • Each system is tailored to meet accessibility standards while blending discreetly into listed and heritage building environments.

Introduction

When designing access for a rise of more than one metre, it is essential to comply with UK and European safety standards requiring enclosed barriers at least 1100 mm high. Standard low-rise lifts cannot meet this requirement, so a bespoke approach is needed. Sesame Access engineers specialise in creating platform lifts that combine safety, reliability, and architectural sensitivity, particularly for heritage and listed buildings where space or aesthetics limit conventional solutions.

What Type of Lift Is Needed When the Rise Exceeds 1000 mm?

For rises over 1000 mm, full enclosure of the platform is required to protect the user throughout travel. The Westminster Stairlift provides a complete solution, automatically raising protective barriers during operation. This model offers full compliance with the Equality Act, suitable for historic sites or public entrances where visual harmony is essential.

With a typical platform of 1100 x 1400 mm and a rise capability exceeding 1400 mm, the Westminster is engineered to blend into architectural features while delivering smooth operation and user confidence.

Are Vertically Retracting Stairs a Viable Alternative?

Yes. When the design brief requests retracting stairs rather than a static platform, Sesame offers two core systems. The Buckingham Stairlift uses vertically retracting steps and removable manual barriers that are positioned when the stairs lower. This design achieves high reliability at a moderate price point and is ideal for listed and heritage buildings where manual handling is acceptable.

For sites where a completely automatic system is preferred, the Seattle ADA Lift provides a refined solution. It integrates fully automated rising barriers and safety gates, removing the need for manual insertion. The system is particularly effective for high-traffic public environments or installations requiring zero-operator input.

Can These Lifts Be Used During Fire Evacuation?

Sesame platform lifts are designed for everyday accessibility, not as evacuation lifts during fire events. They depend on the building’s power supply and are not certified for emergency evacuation. A separate fire safety strategy should therefore be developed with the building’s appointed consultant or fire engineer in accordance with the relevant accessibility and safety standards.

To explore related topics on service reliability and system partnerships, see Lift Reliability and Proactive Service Excellence and Hidden Platform Lift Partnerships in Turkey and Germany.

How Sesame Engineers Tailor Each Installation

Every Sesame lift is individually engineered to integrate seamlessly into the building’s design while meeting the required technical, aesthetic, and compliance objectives. Engineers coordinate with architects and contractors to determine pit depth, gate alignment, barrier type, and electrical setup. This detailed coordination ensures that each bespoke lift provides safe, reliable access without disrupting the heritage character of the site.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can vertically retracting stairs replace traditional platform lifts?
Yes, as long as the design includes compliant barriers and the system meets all applicable safety standards.

What is the standard platform size?
A typical lift platform measures around 1100 mm by 1400 mm, but all Sesame systems are made to measure.

Do Sesame lifts require a pit?
Most retracting stair systems need a shallow pit to house the lifting mechanism. Depth varies by model and site.

What is the travel speed?
Average travel speed is 75–100 mm per second, designed for comfort and precision.

Can I discuss my specific project?
Yes, you can book a Teams meeting with one of our Project Managers through the Sesame Access meeting page.

Conclusion

When a rise exceeds one metre, ensuring safety through full barrier enclosures becomes mandatory. Sesame Access provides three bespoke, heritage-sensitive solutions for vertical retracting stairs, the Westminster, Buckingham, and Seattle models. Each lift is custom-engineered to achieve long-term accessibility, aesthetic harmony, and dependable performance. To begin your project discussion, contact the Sesame team or book a consultation online.