Lifts are essential for accessibility and safety in many buildings from healthcare settings to commercial structures. However, to ensure that lifts are installed, maintained and used safely strict guidelines must be followed. One of the key resources for maintaining lift safety in the UK is BS 7255:2023, the British Standard for Safe Working on Lifts. This comprehensive guide will explain what BS 7255:2023 is, who should use it and why it’s essential for anyone working on or around lifts.
What is BS 7255:2023?
BS 7255:2023 is the latest edition of the British Standard providing safety guidelines for those involved in lift installation, maintenance, inspection and repair. This standard is designed to ensure safe working practices for everyone involved with lifts including engineers, maintenance personnel, lift owners and even those training others in lift safety.
The 2023 revision incorporates updates in response to changes in lift design standards and feedback from industry users. It builds on the previous version (BS 7255:2012) by reflecting new safety practices, technological advancements, and lessons learned from accidents and incidents. This ensures that lift workers can safely perform their duties while minimising risks.
Who is BS 7255:2023 For?
BS 7255:2023 is designed for a wide range of professionals, organisations and stakeholders involved with lifts. This includes:
- Lift Maintenance Companies: Supervisors, engineers and workers who are responsible for maintaining and repairing lifts.
- Inspection Bodies: Organisations that carry out inspections and thorough examinations of lifts to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
- Lift Owners: Those who own and manage lifts, ensuring that the lifts are safe for use by employees or the public.
- Designers and Installers: Professionals involved in the design, installation and commissioning of new lift systems.
- Training and Support Organisations: Groups responsible for training lift maintenance teams, ensuring they understand the safety standards and practices required for safe lift operation.
In short, anyone working directly with lifts from design and installation to maintenance and inspection, should be familiar with and follow the guidelines outlined in BS 7255:2023.
What Does BS 7255:2023 Cover?
BS 7255:2023 provides extensive guidance on various aspects of lift safety including:
1. Access and Safety During Work on Lifts
The standard outlines the necessary precautions and safe working practices for individuals who must access lift installations. This includes guidance on the safe use of tools and equipment, securing work areas and managing any risks associated with working in confined spaces or with electrical systems.
2. Installation and Maintenance Practices
BS 7255:2023 provides clear recommendations for safe installation and maintenance of lifts. These guidelines ensure that lifts are correctly installed and maintained according to modern safety standards which are crucial to prevent accidents and ensure longevity.
3. Inspection and Thorough Examination
One of the key components of BS 7255:2023 is its guidance on conducting thorough inspections and examinations of lift systems. This includes checking the mechanical, electrical and safety components of lifts to ensure that they remain operational and compliant with current standards.
4. Worker Protection
The standard emphasises the protection of workers who are involved in lift maintenance, installation or other related tasks. This includes training on how to safely operate lifts and how to handle potentially dangerous situations such as trapping or malfunctioning lifts.
5. Safety of Others in the Vicinity
BS 7255:2023 not only focuses on the safety of those working directly with lifts but also extends to the safety of others who may be near the lift. This includes ensuring that those not directly involved in the lift operation (such as building occupants or passersby) are not put at risk.
6. Training and Competence
The standard stresses the importance of training for all personnel involved in lift operations. It provides recommendations for the qualifications and skills needed to ensure that individuals are competent in their role whether they are performing lift maintenance or inspections.
Why Should You Use BS 7255:2023 on Lifts?
There are several compelling reasons why BS 7255:2023 is essential for those involved in lift safety:
1. Improved Worker Protection
By following the recommendations of BS 7255:2023, organisations can ensure that their staff are working in a safe environment. The guidelines help to minimise risks associated with lift operations which in turn reduces the likelihood of accidents and injuries.
2. Modernisation and Relevance
The 2023 edition reflects changes in lift design and new safety technologies. This means that it is up-to-date with the latest industry developments. This ensures that those who follow the guidelines are using the most current and effective safety practices.
3. Enhanced Safety for Existing Lifts
In addition to guidelines for new lift installations, BS 7255:2023 also provides recommendations for improving the safety of existing lifts. This is crucial for facilities that have older lift systems that may require upgrades to meet modern safety standards.
4. Clear and Structured Guidance
BS 7255:2023 is designed to be more user-friendly and accessible than previous editions. Its updated structure improves readability and makes it easier for lift maintenance teams to apply the recommendations in real-world situations.
5. Risk Management and Compliance
By adhering to BS 7255:2023, organisations can better manage the risks associated with lift operations. Compliance with the standard also helps organisations meet regulatory requirements and demonstrates a commitment to safety.
What’s New About BS 7255:2023?
The 2023 revision of BS 7255 includes several key updates and improvements:
- Changes in Lift Design Standards: The new edition reflects updates in the BS EN 81-20 standard, which covers the safety rules for the construction and installation of lifts.
- New Safety Guidelines for Existing Lifts: BS 7255:2023 includes additional guidance for improving the safety of existing lift installations particularly in older buildings.
- Improved Structure and Readability: The updated standard is easier to read and more accessible based on feedback from users in the industry.
- Further Guidance on Inspections and Examinations: There is enhanced clarity on the process of thorough examinations including how these should be applied in different situations.
- Emphasis on Worker Well-being: The updated standard includes additional focus on worker well-being, particularly in high-risk environments, and the importance of proper training.
BS 7255:2023 is an essential document for anyone involved in lift maintenance, installation, inspection or safety training. It provides clear and authoritative guidelines that help protect workers and ensure that lifts are safe and reliable for everyone who uses them. By following this updated standard organisations can reduce risks, comply with legal and safety requirements and improve overall lift safety practices. Whether you’re a lift owner, maintenance provider or part of a safety team, incorporating the recommendations of BS 7255:2023 into your processes will ensure that you meet the highest standards of safety in lift operations.