October 15, 2024

What Can Happen If You fail to service your lift, & Why having a lift contract is so important to negate this

Don’t underestimate the importance of lift maintenance in building management.

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure

In the UK, lift owners are legally responsible for ensuring their lifts are properly maintained through regular inspections, servicing, and necessary repairs by qualified lift engineers or a lift maintenance company..
The individual or organisation in charge of the building or property, whether a landlord, building manager, owner, developer, or council is responsible for overseeing that all repairs are promptly addressed and that lift service is carried out on a regular basis.  These responsibilities lie entirely with the lift owner, not with the occupants or tenants.

Lifts should be maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations and industry standards. Regular lift service not only ensures the smooth operation of passenger lifts but also plays a crucial role in maintaining safety and compliance with legal regulations so it is crucial regular lift maintenance is conducted to assess the lift’s safety. It will also save you money in the long run as small issues that are inexpensive to fix can turn into large costly issues if not dealt with. This article delves into the potential consequences of neglecting lift maintenance, the importance of regular inspections, and the preventative measures that can be taken to avoid expensive repairs and safety hazards.

What Will Happen If you Neglect Lift Maintenance?

Understanding the importance of regular lift maintenance

Lift maintenance is essential for the longevity and reliability of any lift. Regular maintenance allows qualified engineers to inspect the lift’s systems and address any wear and tear that could impact its functionality. Neglecting maintenance can lead to various issues that may escalate into major breakdowns. A properly maintained lift is especially important for ensuring accessibility, particularly for those who depend on it for mobility, and helps guarantee safe, efficient operation for everyone in the building.

Lift Maintenance is a legal requirement and part of LOLER regulations

Lift maintenance as a lift owner and operator is a legal requirement under Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 or LOLER for short.

These Regulations (often abbreviated to LOLER) place duties on people and companies who own, operate or have control over lifting equipment. This includes all businesses and organisations whose employees use lifting equipment, whether owned by them or not. In most cases, lifting equipment is also work equipment so the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) will also apply (including inspection and maintenance). All lifting operations involving lifting equipment must be properly planned by a competent person, appropriately supervised and carried out in a safe manner.

LOLER also requires that all equipment used for lifting is fit for purpose, appropriate for the task, suitably marked and, in many cases, subject to statutory periodic ‘thorough examination‘. Records must be kept of all thorough examinations and any defects found must be reported to both the person responsible for the equipment and the relevant enforcing authority.

Consequences for lift owners that Ignore Regular Lift Maintenance

If you have a lift in your building there are consequences to not having a Regular Lift Maintenance contractor in place. One of the most immediate risks is the potential for lift failures, which can result in passengers being trapped, injured. Ignoring the necessity of a thorough examination of the lift can lead to major repercussions, including costly repairs and potential legal liabilities. Additionally, lift systems that are not regularly serviced may fail to meet the health and safety regulations outlined in the lifting operations and lifting equipment regulations 1998, putting everyone at risk and as mentioned above this could have legal repercussions.

How Not having a lift contractor can result in costly repairs

When a lift owner neglects to get their have a lift contractor in place minor issues can quickly escalate into major lift repairs. A small problem, such as a malfunctioning sensor or a worn-out cable, can lead to more serious failures if not addressed promptly.
The costs associated with major repairs can be significantly higher than those of regular maintenance. Furthermore, downtime during repairs can disrupt building operations and inconvenience passengers, ultimately affecting the reputation of the building’s management services.

What Happens During a Lift Service?

Key Components Inspected During Lift Service

During a lift service, a comprehensive inspection is conducted by a qualified engineer to ensure the lift operates safely and efficiently.  Engineers examine various key components, including the lift’s control systems, braking mechanisms, cables, and pulleys. Regular inspections also involve assessing the alignment of the lift shaft and the condition of the doors. By being proactive in lift service, any potential hazards can be identified and addressed before they lead to serious lift problems.

The Role of a Lift Maintenance Company in Lift Servicing

An experienced lift maintenance company plays a crucial role in the maintenance and repair of lift systems. They possess the expertise necessary to diagnose issues and implement solutions effectively.  Responsibilities include conducting regular inspections, performing repairs, and ensuring compliance with equipment regulations. Their knowledge of the specific type of lift in operation allows them to maintain a reliable lift that meets all safety standards, that protects the safety of your passengers and ensures you meet all required legal obligations.

Frequency of Lift Service: How Often Should Your Lift Be Serviced?

Depending on the lifts location, usage, make and model, lift servicing schedules can vary.
To keep your lift in optimal condition, it is recommended that your lift should be serviced at the very least once every six months.
A frequency of maintenance – allows for thorough examinations that can detect wear and tear before it leads to significant issues. Lift owners should adhere to the recommendations laid out by their lift services provider to ensure their lift meets the provisions and use of work equipment regulations.
Regular lift maintenance not only enhances safety but also prolongs the lifespan of the lift, making it a worthwhile investment for building management.

SERIOUS IMPLICATIONS FOR LIFT OWNERS WHO CHOOSE TO NEGLECT LIFT MAINTENANCE?

Legal Requirements for Lift Owners in regards to Lift Maintenance

Building owners are legally obligated to ensure that their lifts are safe for public use, as outlined in the work equipment regulations 1998. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in significant fines and legal action if an accident occurs. Therefore, it is essential for lift owners to prioritise regular maintenance and adhere to all legal requirements concerning lift safety.

Understanding Lift Regulations and Compliance

Understanding lift regulations and compliance is crucial for every lift owner. The equipment regulations and the provision and use of work equipment regulations stipulate that lifts must undergo regular inspections and maintenance by qualified engineers. Familiarity with these regulations helps lift owners stay compliant, thereby reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring the safety of passengers. A reliable lift not only meets these standards but also reinforces the building’s commitment to safety and accessibility.

Act now before it’s too late!  
Contact a qualified lift services provider to conduct a thorough inspection and assessment of the lift’s safety. The engineer will identify any critical issues that need immediate attention and recommend necessary repairs or replacements. Once the lift is serviced, implementing a regular maintenance schedule will help keep the lift in reliable condition and prevent future neglect.

What Preventative Measures Can Be Taken for Lift Maintenance?

Setting Up a Regular Lift Maintenance Schedule

Implementing a maintenance schedule is one of the most effective preventative measures that lift owners can adopt. By scheduling routine inspections, lift owners ensure that any potential issues are identified early, drastically reducing the risk of major repairs and enhancing passenger safety. A proactive approach to lift maintenance not only complies with legal requirements but also contributes to the overall reliability of the lift.

Preventative Maintenance vs. Reactive Repairs

Opting for a maintenance contract for your lift is significantly more beneficial than relying on one-off repairs. While reactive repairs can address immediate concerns, they may not prevent future issues from arising. By investing in regular preventative maintenance, lift owners can greatly extend the lifespan of their systems and reduce the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns. This proactive strategy not only safeguards your investment but also ensures the lift remains safe and functional for all users. A maintenance contract provides peace of mind and consistent performance, allowing you to avoid disruptions and ensure reliable operation.

The Benefits of Regular Lift Maintenance Inspections

Scheduling regular lift maintenance inspections provide numerous benefits that extend beyond mere compliance with regulations. These inspections help maintain a reliable lift that operates smoothly, ensuring a positive experience for passengers. Additionally, they can uncover potential hazards that could lead to accidents or injuries if left unaddressed. Ultimately, regular inspections foster a culture of safety and reliability within the building, enhancing the overall quality of the lift service.

Why Choose VM Elevators as your Lift Maintenance Contractor

At VM Elevators, we excel in providing comprehensive lift & escalator maintenance services in and around London, Essex, and the home counties. Our team of highly qualified technicians conduct routine inspections, lubrication and adjustments to mitigate potential issues, extend the lifespan of your equipment and keep your lifts running smoothly. Additionally we offer all our maintenance contract holders, 24-7 emergency breakdown cover. With our proactive approach, we address any emerging concerns promptly, prioritising user safety, customer satisfaction and seamless vertical mobility for all our clients.

All of our maintenance contracts are approved by the Lift & Escalator Industry Association (LEIA) of which we hold full membership.