The HSE has issued a safety alert to all owners of platform lifts after a series of incidents that involved the landing doors opening without the platform being at the same level. 

This has resulted in members of the public or workers falling down the open lift well or becoming trapped beneath a descending platform. 

The report, which names Sweden’s Nami-lift 400 platform as a particular cause for concern, stresses that the warning is directed at all owners and maintenance firms for all kinds of platform lifts, which are found in a range of different buildings.]

In the report, HSE said: “Lift maintenance companies should ensure maintenance activities are undertaken by competent personnel; in line with the manufacturer’s instructions and/or guidance; and in accordance with a safe system of work. 

“Maintenance of the safety elements of the lift must not affect its safe operation. Modifications intended to keep a lift operating but which may result in unsafe operation must not be carried out under any circumstances.”