What is likely happening
A broken platform lift can leave someone without an accessible route, which is both a safety and an accessibility problem. Common causes are gate switches, batteries on battery-powered lifts, or the drive.
What you can safely check
- Check that gates close fully and the key switch is on.
- Post an alternate accessible route while it is down.
What an inspector will look at
- Gate and door switches
- Drive and brake
- Emergency lowering
Does this affect compliance?
Platform lifts are regulated like other conveyances in most places.
When it becomes urgent
Urgent if it is the only accessible route.
We can help with this
Elevator and conveyance inspection is something Insparisk does nationwide. To see the local rules for your building, open this in the interactive Problem Solver.
Request elevator and conveyance inspectionTalk to an advisorGeneral guidance only, not a substitute for a licensed inspection or emergency services. For any gas odor, carbon monoxide alarm, fire, or trapped occupant, call 911 first.