BS EN 81-72

Safety rules for the construction and installation of lifts. Particular applications for passenger and goods passenger lifts. Firefighters lifts

Overview

EN81-72 is a European safety standard that specifies the requirements for firefighting lifts, designed to be used by firefighters in the event of a fire. These lifts are crucial for efficient fire emergency operations, enabling quick and safe access to all floors of a building. This standard ensures that firefighting lifts are robust, reliable, and equipped with features that support firefighting and rescue efforts.

Key Points:

1. Structural Integrity:
   • Fire-Resistant Materials: Firefighting lifts must be constructed using fire-resistant materials to maintain their integrity during a fire. For example, lift shafts and doors should have a fire resistance rating that matches the building’s fire safety requirements.
   • Protected Shafts: Lift shafts should be protected to prevent the ingress of smoke, heat, and water, ensuring the lift remains operational during a fire.
2. Accessibility and Operation:
   • Dedicated Control System: Firefighting lifts must have a dedicated control system that can override other lift controls, allowing firefighters to take control of the lift for emergency operations.
3. Safety Features:
   • Water Protection: Lifts should be designed to prevent water damage to critical components, as water used in firefighting can enter the lift shaft. For example, electrical components should be IP rated and protected.
   • Emergency Lighting: The lift cabin should be equipped with emergency lighting that activates in the event of a power failure, ensuring visibility for firefighters.
4. Communication Systems:
   • Two-Way Communication: Firefighting lifts should be equipped with a two-way communication system, allowing firefighters inside the lift to communicate with external emergency services.
   • Signal Indicators: The lift should have signal indicators to show its under firefighter control.
5. Operational Reliability:
   • Backup Power Supply: Firefighting lifts must be connected to a reliable backup power supply, such as an emergency generator or a permanent secondary supply to ensure continuous operation during a mains power outage.
   • Regular Testing and Maintenance: These lifts should undergo regular testing and maintenance to ensure they are in optimal working condition and ready for use in an emergency.

• Structural Integrity: A firefighting lift with a shaft constructed of fire-resistant materials and doors with a fire resistance rating of 2 hours ensures that the lift can withstand exposure to fire and heat for a significant period.
• Safety Features: A lift with waterproof electrical components and emergency lighting that activates during power failures ensures that the lift remains functional and safe for firefighters during a fire.
• Communication Systems: A lift with an integrated two-way communication system and operational status indicators provides essential support for coordination between firefighters and emergency control centres.
• Operational Reliability: A firefighting lift connected to an emergency generator, regularly tested and maintained, guarantees that it will operate reliably even during power outages and other emergency conditions.

By adhering to EN81-72, New Lift Solutions ensures that our firefighting lifts are built to the highest standards of safety and reliability, providing critical support for firefighting and rescue operations. This commitment enhances the safety and efficiency of emergency response efforts, helping to protect lives and property in the event of a fire.