There are a number of things to consider when determining the right solution to a disabled access problem. Although there may be site-specific issues, the five main considerations are cost, time, space, aesthetics and usability.

costs

In terms of costs to install and maintain the solution, you would normally expect the disabled access ramp to provide the most cost effective solution. However you need to look beyond the basic costs to establish the true “cost of ownership”.

time

In terms of actual installation time once delivered to site, (there is a delivery time to consider) the disabled access lift can be installed in one day whereas the disabled access ramp will probably take up to 2 weeks, and the traditional lift several weeks.

space

Where space is at a premium one needs to offset installation and maintenance costs against the cost of the space occupied by the solution. In a retail environment for example, the cost of floor space is at a premium. The footprint occupied by a disabled access lift can be substantially less than a ramp, especially if the ramp conforms to AS1428.1 regulations and bearing in mind that, unlike traditional lifts, the disabled access lift does not require a pit or a machine room.

aesthetics

An access ramp integrated into the overall design may add to the overall aesthetic effect of a new building or a major renovation. As an add-on to an existing building however, the installation of a ramp may be the catalyst for a major renovation to avoid a major disruption to the ambience of the building. The disabled access lift will also create a disturbance and you have to weigh up the relative effect of the two solutions.

usability

The final but by no means the least significant consideration is the ease of usage of each solution. The degree of difficulty “to use” imposed by the length of the ramp(s) and the gradient needs to be weighed up against the ease of using the disabled lift. Platform lifts are designed specifically for operation by disabled persons.   

There will be a preferred solution for any disabled access problem. It is important to take all the factors into consideration to determine the true cost of ownership and the optimum solution. 

Platform Lift Company has technical specialists available who will assist in determining the best solution for your building.

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Choosing the right disabled access solution... Ramp or Lift?

a-type | b-type | e-type | platform stairlift