BRITISH STANDARD

Code of practice for

Safe working on lifts

ICS 91.140.90

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BS 7255:2001
Incorporating
Amendment No. 1

BS 7255:2001

Committees responsible for this

British Standard
The preparation of this British Standard was entrusted by Technical
Committee MHE/4, Lifts, hoists and escalators, to Subcommittee MHE/4/1,
Advisory panel for lifts, hoists and escalators, upon which the following bodies
were represented:
Amalgamated Engineering and Electrical Union
British Broadcasting Corporation
Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers
Electrical, Electrotechnical, Telecommunications and Plumbing Union
Engineer Surveyors Section of the MSF
Engineering Employers Federation
Health and Safety Executive
Institution of Electrical Engineers
Institution of Incorporated Executive Engineers
Lift and Escalator Industries Association
Safety Assessment Federation Limited
Society of Operations Engineers

This British Standard, having

been prepared under the
direction of the Engineering
Sector Committee, was
published under the authority
of the Standards Committee
and comes into effect on
15 June 2001
BSI 7 August 2002
First published December 1989
Second edition June 2001

Amendments issued since publication

The following BSI references

relate to the work on this
standard:
Committee reference MHE/4/1
Draft for comment 00/706916 DC

ISBN 0 580 33294 2

Amd. No.

Date

Comments

14019

7 August 2002 See Foreword

BS 7255:2001

Contents
Committees responsible
Foreword
1
2
3
4
5

Page
Inside front cover
ii

Scope
Normative references
Terms and definitions
Safety management: responsibilities of owners
Safety management: responsibilities of persons working on lifts

Annex A (informative) Summary of legal requirements

Annex B (informative) Suggested improvements for consideration by the
owner with particular reference to safe working on lifts
Annex C (informative) Car top control stations
Annex D (informative) Typical safety signs
Annex E (normative) Additional procedures for installation, major repair,
and dismantling: responsibilities of owners and persons working on lifts

24
26
30

Bibliography

43

Figure C.1 Typical arrangement of basic layout for car top operating
buttons and switches as given in BS EN 81-1 and BS EN 81-2
Figure C.2 Typical arrangement of enhanced layout for car top operating
buttons and switches
Figure D.1 Safety sign for use on a landing when a lift is taken out of
service
Figure D.2 Safety sign for use on a machinery space or pulley room door
Figure D.3 Safety sign for use on an inspection door or trap giving access
to a well
Figure D.4 Safety sign for use on a car top where a reduced headroom
exists
Figure D.5 Safety sign for use on a car top that is unsuitable for carrying
persons
Figure D.6 Safety sign for use on a car top on a lift installation with no
safety gear or other means to prevent free fall
Figure D.7 Safety sign for use in a pit where the space below the car is
restricted
Figure D.8 Safety sign for use in a pit with potential danger from a
descending counterweight
Figure D.9 Safety sign for use on a car top with no protection from
falling
Figure D.10 Safety sign for use in a pit where the space below the car is
restricted (hydraulic lifts only)
Figure D.11 Safety sign for use on or near an access trap that gives access
to a machinery space or pulley room

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BS 7255:2001

Foreword
This British Standard has been prepared by Subcommittee MHE/4/1, under the
direction of Technical Committee MHE/4. It supersedes BS 7255:1989, which is
withdrawn.
The start and finish of text introduced or altered by Amendment No. 1 is indicated
in the text by tags !".
This new edition has been prepared to take into account the following
developments since the 1989 edition:
a) tradespersons having an increased awareness of hazards and therefore
taking more care over their actions;
b) employers and owners now positively striving to provide ever-safer
workplaces;
c) changes in UK legislation;
d) the emergence of Harmonized European Standards, in particular
BS EN 81-1, BS EN 81-2 and BS EN 81-3;
e) the trend away from prescriptive clauses (e.g. provisions and procedures),
towards risk assessment methodology as the basis for determining safe systems
of work;
f) the delineation of responsibilities for safety management, between the owner
and the lift industry itself;
g) changes in training requirements;
h) the need to have a code of practice that covers lifts of any age, whether or not
they conform to current British or European Standards.
The safety of persons working on lifts is the responsibility of all persons
associated with such work, in particular:
a) owners and/or persons having effective control of the premises containing
lift(s);
b) employers and supervisors of persons working on lifts;
c) persons working on lifts;
d) other persons working within the premises.
Where such persons are responsible for their own safety there needs to be a
formal, common, safe system of work, in terms of method statements and safety
practices. This code of practice sets out the rudiments for the assessment and
planning of safe working, so that practical safe systems of work can be established
to enable personnel to access their places of work safely, and be adequately
protected during their work.
The effectiveness of method statements and safety practices is substantially
improved when such persons work on lifts that conform to Harmonized European
Standards. This is because such standards specify the minimum safety features
for a lift; e.g. the need for stopping devices, well lighting, car top controls, and
safety gears. The Harmonized European Standards are commended to those
responsible for the safety management of older lifts, so that those lifts can be
upgraded, as far as practicable, to an equivalent level of safety to those that
conform to the Harmonized European Standards.
NOTE Recommendations for the modernization of electric lifts are given in BS 5655-11, and for
hydraulic lifts, in BS 5655-12.

This code of practice recommends the best practices to be employed in order to

provide the safest practicable working environment. It brings together all the
known procedures for safe working into one place.
Attention is drawn to the Construction (Design and Management)
Regulations 1994 [7] for lift designers, planning supervisors and architects. This
code of practice is recommended for use alongside these regulations.
Clause 4 gives recommendations for owners of lifts; clause 5 gives
recommendations for the lift industry. There are a number of similarities
between the two clauses; this is because some responsibilities are shared between
owners and the lift industry. However, there are also some distinct differences
between the two clauses. Users of this code of practice should ensure that they are
reading the appropriate clause for their responsibilities.
ii

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Notes and commentaries are provided throughout the text. Notes give references
and additional information that is important but does not form part of the
recommendations. Commentaries give background information and are also used
to clarify responsibilities between clause 4 and clause 5.
Users of this standard are reminded that as a code of practice it recommends
actions to be taken by people involved with working on lifts; it does not specify
requirements for the lifts themselves. A safe system of work normally involves
definitive working practices for people and a certain level of product safety. Both
of these aspects have been addressed; in the case of product safety, the emphasis
has been put onto persons to provide it.
As a code of practice, this British Standard takes the form of guidance and
recommendations. It should not be quoted as if it were a specification and
particular care should be taken to ensure that claims of compliance are not
misleading.
Annex A, Annex B, Annex C and Annex D are informative. Annex E is normative.
It has been assumed in the drafting of this code of practice that the execution of
its provisions will be entrusted to appropriately qualified and competent people.
This publication does not purport to include all the necessary provisions of a
contract. Users are responsible for its correct application.
Compliance with a British Standard does not of itself confer immunity
from legal obligations.

Summary of pages
This document comprises a front cover, an inside front cover, pages i to iv,
pages 1 to 44, an inside back cover and a back cover.
The BSI copyright notice displayed in this document indicates when the
document was last issued.

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iii

iv

blank

BS 7255:2001

1 Scope
This British Standard gives recommendations for safe working practices (supported by training) for:
owners of permanently installed lifts serving defined landing levels;
persons having effective control of the premises where such lifts are installed;
persons responsible for, and involved in, the design, installation, thorough examination, inspection,
testing, service, maintenance, repair and dismantling of such lifts.
!NOTE 1" Requirements for lifts and associated parts of lift installations are not included in this code of practice; these are
given in other types of standard such as specifications and test methods.

The recommendations in this British Standard relate to the safety of persons when gaining access to and
from the work area on a lift installation, and whilst working there. They also relate to the safety of others
present in the vicinity, whether they are working or not, who could be endangered by the actions of those
working on lifts.
This British Standard is applicable to persons working on all types of lift. However, not every
recommendation is applicable for all types of lift that are covered by British Standards either published or
in preparation. For lifts that have been designed and installed in accordance with the
Lifts Regulations 1997 [2], the recommendations in this standard that affect product design do not apply.
!NOTE 2" Legal responsibilities for the safety of persons working on lifts are summarized in Annex A, together with titles of
the relevant UK legislation.

2 Normative references
The following normative documents contain provisions which, through reference in this text, constitute
provisions of this British Standard. For dated references, subsequent amendments to, or revisions of, any
of these publications do not apply. For undated references, the latest edition of the publication referred to
applies.
BS 5378-1, Safety signs and colours Part 1: Specification for colour and design.
BS 5378-3, Safety signs and colours Part 3: Specification for additional signs to those given
in BS 5378:Part 1.
BS 5655-6, Lifts and service lifts Part 6: Code of practice for selection and installation.
BS 7375:1996, Code of practice for distribution of electricity on construction and building sites.
BS 7671:1992, Requirements for electrical installations IEE Wiring Regulations Sixteenth edition.
BS EN 81-1:1998, Safety rules for the construction and installation of lifts Part 1: Electric lifts.
BS EN 81-2:1998, Safety rules for the construction and installation of lifts Part 2: Hydraulic lifts.
Safety Assessment Federation Limited (SAFed), Recommendations Safe working on lifts
Car top controls, 1996. London: Safety Assessment Federation Limited.1)

1) Available from Safety Assessment Federation Limited (SAFed), Nutmeg House, 60 Gainsford Street, Butlers Wharf,
London SE1 2NY. Telephone 020 7403 0987. !Website: http://www.safed.co.uk."

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3 Terms and definitions

For the purposes of this British Standard the following terms and definitions apply.
3.1
authorized person
person responsible for ensuring that specific plant and equipment are safe for the intended work to be
undertaken
NOTE An authorized person is likely to have undergone such training, and to have sufficient knowledge and experience of the
relevant plant, to enable them to recognize potential dangers of such plant. Alternatively, an authorized person can have been
instructed on the specific task assigned to them, the avoidance of any potential hazards that are applicable, and the reduction of risks,
and if necessary, have been given training relevant to that task.

3.2
car
part of a lift that carries passengers and/or other loads
3.3
competent person
person, suitably trained and qualified by knowledge and practical experience, and provided with the
necessary instructions, to enable the required work to be carried out safely
3.4
entrance
complete landing door assembly, together with its surround
3.5
landing
space at the entrance to a lift at any defined level to permit the manoeuvring, boarding and alighting of
persons and/or goods
3.6
lift
permanent lifting equipment, comprising a guided car or platform, serving defined landing levels and
designed for the transportation of persons and/or goods
3.7
lift contractor
party that is contracted to supply, install, modernize, repair, service or dismantle a lift
3.8
lift machine
unit, including the motor, which drives and stops a lift
3.9
lock-off device
device to prevent unauthorized reconnection of electrical energy
NOTE

This is often a padlock that prevents movement of the operating handle of the isolator.

3.10
machinery space
space inside or outside a well where the machinery, as a whole or in parts, is placed

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3.11
main switch
switch that isolates the electrical supply to a lift on all live conductors, without isolating the electrical
supply to any of the following:
a) car lighting or ventilation (if any);
b) socket outlet on the car roof;
c) lighting in the machinery space and any pulley room;
d) socket outlet(s) in the machinery space and any pulley room;
e) lighting in the well;
f) socket outlet in the pit;
g) alarm and communication device;
h) group interconnections
3.12
multiple installation
number of lifts installed in separate or common wells and/or sharing a common machinery space
3.13
observation lift
lift that provides a panoramic outlook
NOTE

The well for such a lift can be partially enclosed.

3.14
owner
legal entity having right of possession of a lift and responsibility for its safe working
NOTE

The owner is usually the landlord or proprietor of the building in which a lift is situated.

3.15
passenger
person transported by a lift in the car
3.16
permit to work
authority in writing which includes details of:
a) work to be undertaken;
b) procedures involved;
c) precautions needed;
d) emergency procedures to be in place;
e) persons to undertake the work;
f) timescale of the work to be undertaken;
g) restrictions on the workplace or equipment
3.17
pit
part of a well situated below the lowest landing served by a car
3.18
platform
part of a car that supports the load, complete with its frame attachments

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3.19
pulley room
room, not containing a lift machine, in which pulleys are located
NOTE
lift.

This room can also contain other equipment, such as the overspeed governor(s) and electrical equipment associated with a

3.20
rated load
load which the equipment has been designed to carry
3.21
risk assessment
comprehensive estimation of the probability and the degree of possible injury or damage to health in a
hazardous situation, in order to select appropriate safety measures
3.22
safe system of work
formal procedure, resulting from a risk assessment, which specifies safe methods of work to ensure that
relevant hazards are eliminated and the remaining risks are minimized
3.23
user
person making use of the services of a lift installation
NOTE

A user is not necessarily the same as a passenger.

3.24
well
space in which the car, the counterweight or the balancing weight travels
NOTE

This space is normally bounded by the bottom of the pit, the walls and the ceiling of the well.

3.25
workplace
premises or part of premises where work is carried out
NOTE 1

This can include:

a) any place which is accessible to those at the workplace;

b) any means of access to/from the workplace e.g. staircase, corridor, road.
NOTE 2

A workplace is usually non-domestic, although the term can refer equally to domestic premises.

3.26
work platform
designated area, moving or fixed, for carrying out work tasks

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4 Safety management: responsibilities of owners

NOTE 1 The recommendations given in this clause are applicable to owners of lifts and to persons having effective control of the
premises where lifts are installed. Persons responsible for, and involved in, the design, installation, thorough examination, inspection,
testing, service, maintenance, repair or dismantling of lifts, should read clause 5.
NOTE 2 Owners of lifts that were built before the publication of the BS EN 81 series of standards are encouraged to read Annex B
and Annex C, which give details of suggested improvements to older lift installations.

4.1 Training and competence

4.1.1 All persons who might at any time be working on a lift or related equipment, be working within a
well, pit, machinery space or pulley room, or be carrying out risk assessments, should possess demonstrable
competence in basic lift safety and procedures, or be under relevant supervision.
NOTE 1 Relevant supervision may be provided by any person who possesses demonstrable competence in basic lift safety and
procedures.
NOTE 2

A suitable level of qualification is EMTA NVQ EOR/202, although other equivalent qualifications can exist.

4.1.2 Clear written instructions relating to site emergency and first aid procedures should be issued to
employees, visitors, contractors and other authorized persons (see 3.1), where risk assessment identifies a
need. Any specific regulations that apply to the premises should also be included in these instructions. If
the instructions are complex and/or specific risks exist, they should be supplemented by a specific site
safety awareness training regime and safe system(s) of work.
4.1.3 !Specific training should be provided to all persons who are authorized to carry out the safe release
of trapped passengers. Such persons should be clearly made aware that this training is limited to safe
release activities only and that it will not authorize them to carry out any additional activities.
NOTE The full range of competencies contained within NVQ EOR/202 might not be required for persons carrying out the safe release
of trapped passengers. Recommended procedures for the safe release of trapped passengers are given in 5.8."

4.1.4 The competency of all trained persons should be assessed and documented annually. Documentation
should list the competencies achieved relating to the type of equipment upon which the training was
carried out.
4.1.5 Information and instructions should be given to all occupants of the premises who could be affected
whenever any works are carried out on lifts, indicating any relevant effects on their working environment
or their health and safety.
4.1.6 All employees within the premises should be made aware of the meaning of all signs displayed in lift
areas or when lifts are being worked on.
NOTE

The ultimate responsibility for safety signs rests with the owner, although it may be delegated (see 5.2.5).

COMMENTARY ON 4.1.6. There are two categories of signage that can be encountered by employees in a
building: those displayed where employees occupy tenant areas, and those displayed where employees enter
restricted areas under supervision.
Examples of the first category are:
lift out of service (see Figure D.1);
rated load plate in the car (see BS EN 81-1:1998, 15.2.1 and BS EN 81-2:1998, 15.2.1);
machinery space access notices (see Figure D.2 and Figure D.3, BS EN 81-1:1998, 15.4.1 and
BS EN 81-2:1998, 15.4.1).
Examples of the second category are:
reduced headroom (see Figure D.4);
no car safety gear (see Figure D.6);
reduced pit depth and position prop before entering (see Figure D.7);
descending counterweight (see Figure D.8).

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4.2 General
4.2.1 Responsibility for work on site
The owner should ensure that any work carried out on lifts is performed only by authorized persons.
NOTE

Attention is drawn to the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 [3].

A person should be appointed by the owner or the site person in charge of the works, to be responsible for
at least the following:
a) familiarization with the relevant parts of any site safety assessment undertaken by the contractor;
b) familiarization with the work site from commencement of the work, including the effect the work is
likely to have on other persons in the area;
c) directing and managing the work safely;
d) ensuring that the work site is handed back to the owner in a safe condition on completion of the work.
COMMENTARY ON 4.2.1. The lift contractor or other persons authorized to carry out work on the lift
installation are expected to advise the owner of risks that could arise as a result of the work.
4.2.2 Liaison
The owner should nominate a representative to summon emergency assistance if required, and to advise
on special precautions or procedures required for works being undertaken within the premises.
The owner, together with the site person in charge of the works, should determine whether any special
precautions or procedures need to be taken.
NOTE

Such precautions can become necessary due to environmental factors, e.g. where children are present in the vicinity.

COMMENTARY ON 4.2.2. The site person in charge of the works on the lift(s) should establish contact with the
owners site representative. The owners site representative should be advised before work is started or any
lift(s) taken out of service.
4.2.3 Personal protective equipment
A risk assessment (see 4.3) should be carried out to identify the need for and appropriate type(s) of personal
protective equipment and/or clothing, before such equipment and/or clothing is issued.
The owner should ensure that appropriate personal protective equipment and/or clothing is provided to
ensure the health and safety of persons working on lifts who could be exposed to harmful processes or
substances encountered within the premises.
COMMENTARY ON 4.2.3. Where highly specialized protective equipment is needed, this is often provided by
the lift industry.
4.2.4 Electrical equipment
The owner should enable the lift contractor to have access to the electrical supplies.
The owner should ensure that existing electrical conductors and their terminations that could give rise to
danger are:
a) of the appropriate rating;
b) insulated.
NOTE

The integrity of the electrical supply is solely the responsibility of the owner.

4.2.5 Removal of lift from service

The owner should ensure that a safety sign is displayed where a lift is removed from service, to warn others
that the lift is out of service (see Figure D.1).

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4.2.6 Housekeeping
The owner, in conjunction with the lift industry, should establish procedures for:
a) the avoidance of build-up of waste materials in wells;
b) the control and disposal of waste and other items and substances that are potentially injurious to
health and safety.
NOTE 1

Attention is drawn to the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 1999 [4].

NOTE 2 Examples of potentially hazardous items and substances include hypodermic needles, human waste and radioactive
materials.

4.2.7 Safety file

Following the installation or major modernization of a lift, the safety file should be made available to
persons who subsequently work on the lift(s).
COMMENTARY ON 4.2.7. The lift contractor should make the safety file available to the owner following the
initial installation of a lift (see 5.2.7). The file should indicate:
a) the major characteristics of the installation process;
b) servicing and maintenance requirements;
c) any special operations where a particular method needs to be adopted;
d) specific instructions for the dismantling and disposal of the lift at the end of its working life.
4.2.8 Effects on the occupants
Potential disruption, arising from the lift works, to the occupants of the premises should be assessed and
minimized.
4.2.9 Access to tools, equipment and materials
Arrangements should be made between the owner and the lift contractor for:
a) safe access to all tools, equipment and materials at workplaces;
b) the provision of suitable and clearly identified storage space for tools, equipment, materials and any
portable access equipment;
c) the provision of alternative access routes as may become necessary during the works being
undertaken.
NOTE

These are some elements of the provision of safe systems of work (see 3.22).

4.2.10 Permits to work

Effective control should be imposed over all persons carrying out work, e.g. by the issue of permits to work,
for those requiring access to workplaces. The details of any permits to work (see 3.16) which may be
required, and the conditions imposed by them, should be made known to such persons.
There should be a safe system of work for all those undertaking tasks within designated workplaces.
NOTE

It is expected that such a safe system of work would include the provision of lock-off devices on all electrical isolators.

4.2.11 Installation, major repair and dismantling

Where installation, major repair or dismantling is taking place, the procedures given in Annex E should be
followed.
NOTE The procedures given in Annex E are specific to the activities associated with installation, major repair and dismantling.
They are additions, not alternatives, to the procedures detailed in clause 4.

4.2.12 Access and egress

The owner should provide a safe means of access to and egress from all workplaces, including suitable
access equipment if necessary.
NOTE This includes the provision of access to all workplaces that is free from obstacles, tripping hazards and projections. It also
includes the provision of safe means of access through potentially hazardous areas and the provision of adequate lighting for access
to and egress from workplaces.

The owner should ensure that authorized persons can easily gain entry to a workplace.

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4.2.13 Lighting
Emergency lighting and temporary electrical supplies (where necessary) should be provided for all
workplaces (see 3.25).
NOTE

BS 5266-1:1999 gives recommendations for emergency lighting.

4.2.14 Safe workplaces

The owner should ensure that all workplaces are safe to accommodate:
a) the work activity being undertaken;
b) all lift contractors together with their necessary working equipment.
4.2.15 Access to machinery spaces
Access to machinery spaces should be restricted to authorized persons or persons under the supervision of
authorized persons.
The owner should ensure that persons accessing machinery spaces abide by any safety signs
(see Figure D.2).
4.3 Risk assessment
4.3.1 The owner and the lift contractor should undertake a risk assessment to establish safety measures
to ensure the safety of persons engaged in undertaking the work and persons using the lifts.
NOTE Risk assessment requires periodic reviews, as improvements in technology and/or materials could reduce the element of risk
beyond that achieved by any existing arrangements.

4.3.2 The safety measures identified by risk assessment should be implemented wherever practicable. All
measures should be undertaken which could improve the safety of those persons engaged in the works or
using the lifts, including any recommendations issued by the manufacturers, the maintenance company,
competent persons, or enforcing authorities.
NOTE

Attention is drawn to clause 3 (i) of the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 [5].

4.3.3 All works should be planned in advance in order to eliminate or reduce to a controllable level the risks
to those persons undertaking the works and all persons who may be affected by them.
4.3.4 The owner should plan the works, where appropriate, to coincide with the shut-down period of
hazardous processes or for when public areas are less busy or closed.
4.3.5 Details of any changes to the risks which can be encountered during the progress of the works, and
which become apparent from subsequent risk assessments, should be recorded and made known to the
responsible person (see 4.2.1).
4.4 Well-being of persons working alone
4.4.1 An authorized person should not work alone where a risk assessment identifies specific hazards
(e.g. in the absence of a car top control station). In such cases the authorized person should be accompanied
by another person who has received appropriate instruction.
NOTE

This is an element of the provision of a safe system of work (see 3.22 and 5.5.1.6).

4.4.2 The owner should ensure that the following procedures are adopted:
a) before commencing work, the authorized person should register their presence with the owners site
representative;
b) suitable arrangements should be made to ensure that the continued well-being of the authorized
person is periodically confirmed;
c) suitable arrangements should be made to organize assistance in the event of an emergency;
d) the specific arrangements and frequency for confirming an authorized persons continued well-being
should be described in the relevant safe working procedure and should be acted upon.
NOTE

These procedures are particularly important if an authorized person is working alone in unoccupied premises.

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4.5 Working within the well

4.5.1 General
4.5.1.1 In order to provide a safe system of work, full height division screens should be provided between
lifts in a common well, hence avoiding the need for adjacent lift(s) to be taken out of service.
4.5.1.2 Adequate levels of lighting should be provided for all work activities carried out by authorized
persons within the well.
COMMENTARY ON 4.5.1.2. Recommended average lighting levels are given in BS EN 81-1 and BS EN 81-2
as 50 lux, 1 m above the car top. Other lighting to enable work activities to be carried out may be provided
by the lift contractor.
4.5.1.3 Temporary lighting within a well should be at either:
a) a voltage not exceeding 110 V, derived from a supply with centre-tapped earth (see BS 7375:1996); or
b) 230 V, protected by residual current devices (RCDs).
4.5.1.4 Temporary lighting within a well should be protected against damage.
4.5.1.5 The owner should ensure that permanent safety signs are displayed in clearly visible positions
where a risk exists, including:
a) where access is via an inspection door or trap (see Figure D.3);
b) where headroom is less than that specified in BS EN 81-1:1998, 5.7 and BS EN 81-2:1998, 5.7
(see Figure D.4);
c) where the car roof is unsuitable for carrying persons (see Figure D.5);
d) where no car safety gear is provided (see Figure D.6);
e) where a reduced pit depth exists (see Figure D.7);
f) where there is potential danger from a descending counterweight (see Figure D.8);
g) where a safety harness is needed (see Figure D.9);
h) where a prop is needed (applicable to hydraulic lifts only) (see Figure D.10).
4.5.1.6 On installations that have reduced headroom, the refuge space should be clearly identified on both
the car top and the lift floor.
4.5.1.7 The owner should ensure that all persons working within a well are made aware of all relevant
safety signs.
NOTE

Examples of typical safety signs are shown in Annex D.

4.5.2 Working on the car top

4.5.2.1 On lift installations that do not have a safety gear or other means to prevent free fall, the owner
should ensure that a safety sign is displayed in a prominent position on the top of the car (see Figure D.6).
4.5.2.2 On lift installations that do not have a safety gear or other means to prevent free fall, and where
access to the car top is necessary, a device that prevents free fall of the car should be installed for the
duration of the task to be undertaken.
4.5.2.3 Where a space exists into which a person could fall (BS EN 81-1:1998, 8.13 and
BS EN 81-2:1998, 8.13), precautions should be taken which may include:
a) a vertical screen;
b) a horizontal extension of the car top;
c) the provision of balustrades on the car top;
d) a safe system of work (3.22);
e) the provision of a safety harness.
NOTE

A particular safe system of work should be employed only where a), b) and c) cannot be accommodated.

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4.5.2.4 The owner should ensure that, where there is a risk of a person working on the car top becoming
trapped and where no means are provided for escape via either the car or the well, an alarm or voice
communication system is installed. This system should be of at least the same specification as that
provided in the car, and should be connected to a rescue service.
4.5.3 Working in the pit
NOTE

Attention is drawn to the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 [3].

4.5.3.1 Where a permanent means of access to the pit cannot be provided, a suitable portable means of
access should be made available, in the form of a ladder which can be secured in position when placed in
the pit. This ladder, when not in use, should be stored and locked in a position as close to the pit as
practicable.
4.5.3.2 Where the space below a car is restricted, i.e. where it is less than that specified in current British
Standards for the appropriate type of lift, a mechanical restraint should be provided. This should be used
to create a space between the underside of the car and the bottom of the well that is at least equal to that
specified in the British Standard for the appropriate type of lift. The owner should ensure that where space
below a car is restricted, a safety sign is displayed (see Figure D.7).
NOTE This applies for both electric and hydraulic lifts. It does not apply where the lift is built to a Harmonized European Standard,
or where a relevant design approval has been issued by a Notified Body.

COMMENTARY ON 4.5.3.2. Risk assessment could identify the necessity for some of these mechanical
restraints to be suitably interlocked.
4.5.3.3 For hydraulic lifts, regardless of whether or not space below the car is restricted, a mechanical
restraint should always be provided. The owner should ensure that an additional safety sign, visible from
the access point, is prominently displayed by all hydraulic lifts, to indicate to authorized persons entering
the pit that the mechanical restraint needs to be put in position (see Figure D.10).
4.5.3.4 Where a restraint is not permanently fitted, it should be stored in a safe location in the pit or stored
and locked in a position as close to the pit as practicable.
4.5.3.5 Where practicable, counterweight screens reaching to a height of at least 2.5 m above the pit floor
should be provided to reduce hazards created by descending counterweights. Where it is not practicable to
fit such a screen, the owner should ensure that a safety sign is prominently displayed (see Figure D.8).
4.5.3.6 Provision should be made to allow visual inspection of the counterweight, associated switches, and
over-travel.
4.5.3.7 When more than one lift is installed within a common well, division screens rising from the pit floor
to a height of at least 2.5 m above the lowest landing sill should be provided, to prevent persons passing
from one well to another (see 4.5.1.1).
4.5.3.8 The owner should ensure that, where there is a risk of a person working in the pit becoming trapped,
an alarm or voice communication system is installed. This system should be of at least the same
specification as that provided in the car, and should be connected to a rescue service.
4.5.3.9 Where a door other than a landing door is provided for access to the pit, the owner should ensure
that an appropriate warning notice is displayed (see Figure D.3 and BS EN 81-1:1998, 5.7.3.2 and 15.5.1).
4.6 Landing entrances
COMMENTARY ON 4.6. Persons engaged in the maintenance and the examination of lifts, or in effecting the
emergency release of passengers, may need to open a landing door while the car is not at that landing, e.g. in
order to gain access to the pit or to the roof of the car. In such cases it is essential that any persons (other
than those working on the lift) be prevented from making use of such a landing entrance.
It should be remembered that whenever a landing door is unlocked, or open with the car not stationary or at
the level of that landing, there is a distinct possibility that persons at that landing might be at risk.

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Potential hazards at landings include:

a) persons falling down the well from the landing;
b) persons gaining access to the car when it is not at the level of the landing or gaining access to parts of
the car or well which are not normally accessible;
c) persons coming into contact with moving parts of a lift.
These hazards might endanger any persons in the vicinity of the landing entrance, e.g. occupants of the
building and members of the general public, including children, the elderly, the infirm or disabled persons.
4.6.1 All protective barriers should incorporate relevant safety signs in accordance with BS 5378-1 and
BS 5378-3.
4.6.2 Effective precautions should be provided to protect an open landing entrance. Where the car is not
to be moved, this should take the form of one of the following:
a) a barrier, capable of being fixed at the entrance, which comprises a guard rail at least 1100 mm high
with a mid-rail and a toe-board that is fixed across the landing entrance threshold. This precaution
should generally be restricted to building sites;
b) a mesh or solid barrier, at least 1100 mm high, capable of being erected at an appropriate distance
away from the landing threshold.
NOTE As a short-term measure, and prior to these precautions being taken, it may be necessary to position a trained and authorized
person to supervise an open entrance.

COMMENTARY ON 4.6.2. It may be necessary to provide an unattended barrier extending to the full height of
the entrance when it is foreseeable that persons might climb over a 1100 mm high barrier, e.g. children
skylarking, vandals.
Built-in arrangements for locating and fixing barriers at landing entrances are not normally provided on
lift installations, and aesthetic considerations could cause difficulties when special provisions for the fixing
of barriers are requested. Several designs of easily portable barriers have been produced that can be fixed
quite rigidly at landing entrances of lifts with sliding doors, without any structural alterations being
necessary. Such barriers could be stored at strategic locations so as to be readily available to personnel when
required.
Additional guidance can be found in documents such as Health and Safety Executive Guidance Note
PM 26 [1].
4.6.3 When a car is to be moved under power, neither of the options in 4.6.2 are suitable, and so a full height
enclosure with an access door should be provided. The access door should be fitted with a lock having keys,
which can be opened without a key from inside the enclosure.
4.6.4 Each lift should be clearly and uniquely identified at or adjacent to the lowest and highest landing
entrances.
COMMENTARY ON 4.6.4. This identification will ideally be the same as the identification in the machinery
space (see 4.7.8). This ensures that persons working on lifts can easily establish the correct relationship
between a specific machine and its corresponding well and associated equipment (see 5.7.3).
4.6.5 Temporary lighting at a landing entrance should be at either:
a) a voltage not exceeding 110 V, derived from a supply with centre-tapped earth (see BS 7375:1996); or
b) 230 V, protected by residual current devices (RCDs).
4.6.6 Temporary lighting on landings should be protected against damage.
4.7 Machinery spaces and pulley rooms
COMMENTARY ON 4.7. There are certain hazards in machinery spaces and pulley rooms relating to rotating
machinery and electrical equipment, etc., that are similar to those experienced in other industrial
workplaces.

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Not every lift machine will be identical, modern, compact or similarly positioned; neither will all machinery
spaces be of identical size or shape, nor be segregated, illuminated or located within similar environments.
In addition, the space available for persons to work could vary significantly between installations; the means
of access to various parts of the machinery could also differ. Some machinery spaces might also contain more
than one lift machine, perhaps sited within close proximity.
4.7.1 A safe means of access should be provided to all machinery spaces and pulley rooms. The owner
should ensure that a permanent safety sign is displayed on the outside of machinery space and pulley room
doors (see Figure D.2).
NOTE

Details of safe means of access are given in BS EN 81-1:1998, !6.2.2" and BS EN 81-2:1998, !6.2.2" as appropriate.

4.7.2 Where access is via an access trap into the machinery space or pulley room, the owner should ensure
that a permanent safety sign is displayed inside the room adjacent to the access trap (see Figure D.11).
NOTE

Details of the strength of access traps are given in BS EN 81-1:1998, 6.3.3.2 and BS EN 81-2:1998, 6.3.3.2 as appropriate.

4.7.3 Any temporary lighting within a machinery space or pulley room should be at either:
a) a voltage not exceeding 110 V, derived from a supply with centre-tapped earth (see BS 7375:1996); or
b) 230 V, protected by residual current devices (RCDs).
NOTE It is important that the levels of lighting in the machinery space(s) are adequate to provide a safe working environment.
Guidance may be obtained in particular from BS EN 81-1 and BS EN 81-2, which recommend at least 200 lux at the floor level and
on all working surfaces.

4.7.4 The owner should ensure that switched socket outlets provided in any machinery space or pulley room
conform to BS 7671:1992 with respect to placement and position.
4.7.5 Electrically insulated mats, conforming to the Low Voltage Electrical Equipment (Safety)
Regulations 1989 [6] and of suitable dimensions, should be provided in front of each controller and also
where necessary at the rear.
4.7.6 Accurate electrical and hydraulic circuit and schematic diagrams for each lift installation should be
available for maintenance personnel.
4.7.7 Any subsequent modifications to any part of the electrical power and safety circuits or hydraulic
circuit should be appropriately authorized and legibly recorded on the circuit diagrams by the company
responsible for making the modifications. Any such modifications should be subject to recorded design risk
assessment. The main maintenance contractor and owner should be advised of these modifications.
4.7.8 Means should be provided to ensure that each lift and component part thereof, located within the
machinery space, can be easily identified.
COMMENTARY ON 4.7.8. This identification will ideally be the same as the identification on the lifts
(see 4.6.4). This ensures that persons working on lifts can easily establish the correct relationship between a
specific machine and its corresponding well and associated equipment (see 5.7.3).
4.7.9 Other than when work activities are being carried out within the machinery space or pulley room, the
entrance door(s) to the rooms should be kept locked to prevent unauthorized access.
4.7.10 The owner should ensure that all permanently installed lifting equipment provided in machinery
spaces or pulley rooms is clearly marked with its safe working load (see BS EN 81-1:1998, 6.3.7).
4.7.11 When the lift machinery and equipment occupies a small space within a larger room (usually with
older lifts), such machinery and equipment should be segregated from the rest of the room. In such
instances there should be an enclosure at least 2.14 m high, or from floor to ceiling if this is lower, fitted
with a lockable access door that has a safety sign in accordance with Figure D.2 permanently displayed on
the outside.
4.8 Safe release of trapped passengers
NOTE Safe release procedures differ for different types of lift passenger release, e.g. traction lifts, drum/chain lifts, hydraulic lifts,
geared or gearless lifts. The general procedures given in 4.8.1 are applicable for all types of lift. Additional procedures for electric
traction lifts and hydraulic lifts are given in 4.8.2 and 4.8.3 respectively.

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4.8.1 General
COMMENTARY ON 4.8.1. Except for exceptional circumstances e.g. an operating theatre lift in a hospital or
nursing home or in the event of a fire in the building, persons trapped in a car should not be in any imminent
danger, although some degree of anxiety and discomfort can be experienced.
Although release procedures should never be delayed, undue haste may lead to disregard of the
recommended procedures for the safe release of passengers.
The cause of some stoppages might require specialized skills to detect, and the adoption of special and
intricate procedures to release passengers safely.
4.8.1.1 Means should be put in place to facilitate the safe release of trapped passengers. The owner should
ensure that only trained and authorized persons undertake the release of passengers trapped in a car.
NOTE It is important that the release of passengers is carried out only by authorized persons who have received the necessary
training, because it is dangerous for any other persons to attempt to do so. A failure to take adequate precautions may render the
authorized person concerned guilty of negligence should an accident occur.

4.8.1.2 The owner should ensure that there is a regular check of the operation of the emergency lighting
and emergency alarm in the car, so that in the event of a power failure both the emergency lighting and
the emergency alarm remain operable.
4.8.1.3 All release operations to be adopted should be carried out according to the manufacturers or other
authorized instructions for the lift concerned, which should be permanently displayed in the form of a
notice in the machinery space.
4.8.1.4 An appropriate means should be implemented by which all persons effecting the release of trapped
passengers are able to communicate with one another.
4.8.1.5 To assist the safe release of passengers trapped in a car, an authorized person should be stationed
at the nearest available landing entrance. This person should be in direct communication with those in the
machinery space and the passengers in the car, and should continually reassure the passengers and ensure
that passengers do not attempt to leave the car prematurely.
4.8.1.6 It is imperative that trapped passengers should be warned of the intention to move the car and that
they should not attempt to leave it until they are advised that it is safe to do so.
4.8.1.7 Before commencing manual movement of a lift machine, it is vital that the electrical supply should
be isolated; if lock-off devices exist, they should be used.
4.8.2 Electric traction lifts
4.8.2.1 There should be two persons in the machinery space (one to operate the brake release and the other
to carry out the hand-winding), with the following exceptions:
a) small lift machines where the hand-winding and brake release equipment are so located that they can
be easily controlled by one person; and
b) larger machines where two persons are needed to operate the hand-winding together and a third
person is needed to control the brake release.
4.8.2.2 If a car cannot be moved when an attempt is made to move it in either direction, then no further
attempt should be made to move the car because the safety gear might have engaged. Provided that the car
is free to be moved in the downward direction, it should be wound to the nearest floor in the direction that
offers the least resistance to motion. The owner should ensure that any further procedure is carried out
only by a trained lift craftsperson.
4.8.2.3 The owner should provide an electrical emergency procedure to be used when the manual effort for
hand-winding exceeds 400 N with rated load in the car. In view of the complexity of the emergency
electrical winding equipment, the owner should ensure that only authorized and trained persons carry out
the emergency electrical procedure.
NOTE Although the emergency electrical procedure for safe release is different to the procedure for the manual release of trapped
passengers, the procedures detailed in 4.8.1 (with the exception of 4.8.1.7) apply equally to electrical emergency winding.

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COMMENTARY ON 4.8.2.3. In a typical installation, operation of the lift machine is achieved by means of a
special control panel in the machinery space. This can be on a flexible lead, plugged into a socket on the
controller cabinet. The lift machine is usually visible from the control box location so that the direction and
degree of movement can be observed and controlled.
4.8.3 Hydraulic lifts
NOTE The majority of hydraulic lifts can be moved manually in the down direction using the emergency lowering valve. Where such
means are not available, the provision of an emergency lowering valve is recommended. Equipment should be provided to enable the
car to be manually raised to facilitate the release of passengers from the car, where it is fitted with safety gear.

4.8.3.1 There should be at least one person in the machinery space.

NOTE Unlike electric traction lifts, it is usually necessary to have only one person in the machinery space. However, it is advisable
for a second person to be present, to act as a safety monitor.

4.8.3.2 If a car cannot be moved when an attempt is made to move it in either direction, then no further
attempt should be made to move the car because the safety gear might have engaged. Provided that the car
is free to be moved in both directions, it should be moved to the nearest floor. The owner should ensure that
any further procedure is carried out only by a trained lift craftsperson.
4.8.3.3 When the machinery space for a hydraulic lift is remote from the well, an effective means of
communication should be used between the person stationed at the landing entrance and the authorized
person in the machinery space. This should be independent of the main electrical supply to the lift, e.g. a
telephone or radio link.
4.9 Observation lifts and partially enclosed wells
COMMENTARY ON 4.9. Although safe working provisions and procedures for observation lifts and partially
enclosed wells are essentially the same as for conventional lifts, there are additional features that need to be
taken into account. These lifts can create unusual working conditions not normally experienced elsewhere,
e.g. the lack of a complete well enclosure (which might unnerve some personnel), and exposure to the elements
on building exteriors. Special procedures for the cleaning of the car exteriors and other glazed parts therefore
need to be implemented. Additional precautions need to be adopted for the protection of persons below or in
the near vicinity, when works on these types of lifts are being undertaken (tools and/or equipment can
inadvertently fall from such installations).
4.9.1 When work is to be carried out on observation lifts and partially enclosed wells, the need for
additional precautions should be evaluated through risk assessment for hazards arising from severe
weather conditions, falling from the car top, etc. Where a risk is identified, the owner should ensure that a
safety sign is displayed (see Figure D.9).
4.9.2 The owner should ensure that only authorized persons clean the glazed exterior of the car and the
interior of a glazed well enclosure. Safe systems of work that incorporate a permit to work procedure should
be agreed between all parties involved, i.e. owner, lift contractor and cleaning contractor.
4.10 Regulations
4.10.1 It is the joint responsibility of the owner, lift contractor and/or lift designer to ascertain whether the
Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 1994 [7] apply to the project envisaged.
4.10.2 Where applicable, and prior to the site work commencing, it should be ensured that the project
design has fully taken into account all considerations regarding the health and safety of those persons who
will undertake the installation and subsequent servicing, maintenance, repair and final dismantling of the
lift.
4.10.3 The Health and Safety Plan produced in accordance with the Construction (Design and
Management) Regulations 1994 [7] should be made available to the responsible person nominated for the
project under those regulations.

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5 Safety management: responsibilities of persons working on lifts

NOTE The recommendations given in this clause are applicable to persons responsible for, and involved in, the design, installation,
thorough examination, inspection, testing, service, maintenance, repair or dismantling of lifts. Owners of lifts, and persons having
effective control of the premises on which lifts are installed, should read clause 4.

5.1 Training and competence

5.1.1 All personnel
All persons who might at any time be working on a lift or related equipment, be working within a well, pit,
machinery space or pulley room, or be carrying out risk assessments, should possess demonstrable
competence in basic lift safety and procedures, or be under relevant supervision.
NOTE 1 Relevant supervision may be provided by any person who possesses demonstrable competence in basic lift safety and
procedures.
NOTE 2

A suitable level of qualification is EMTA NVQ EOR/202, although other equivalent qualifications can exist.

5.1.2 Lift craftspersons (fitters)

Lift craftspersons should have a minimum qualification of EMTA NVQ Level 3 or its equivalent.
NOTE Older qualifications that can be accepted as equivalent levels of competence in lift engineering include EMTA
module/segment certification, and apprenticeship certification prior to the existence of the former schemes. All lift qualifications are
awarded through an approved assessment centre. An approved assessment centre is one that is licensed by the awarding body to
approve registration, assessment, verification and certification for competencies outlined in registered evidence routes.

5.1.3 Lift inspectors and engineer surveyors

Lift inspectors and engineer surveyors should, as a minimum stipulation, be competent in their practising
professions.
They should also possess demonstrable competence in the safe operation of all lift equipment.
NOTE Lift inspectors and engineer surveyors may not have trained in the lift industry, but may come from an associated activity.
They may need to seek appropriate safety training when first practising in the lift industry to ensure their competence in all safety
matters. In particular see 5.5.2.2.

5.1.4 Lift consultants

Lift consultants should, as a minimum stipulation, be competent in their practising professions.
They should also possess demonstrable competence in the safe operation of all lift equipment.
NOTE Lift consultants may come from any discipline (electrical, mechanical, building services etc.) and may be qualified at any level
(craftspersons, technicians, technician engineers, chartered engineers etc.). They may need to seek appropriate safety training when
first practising in the lift industry, such as that indicated in 5.1.1, or that received by persons detailed in 5.1.2 or 5.1.5. Alternatively,
they may need to work under the relevant supervision of a person who is competent in lift safety.

5.1.5 Lift adjusters/testers (or persons carrying out such functions)

Lift adjusters/testers should have a minimum qualification of the following EMTA NVQ units at Level 4:
a) UC401, Health and safety within industry;
b) UC402, Working with data and information;
as well as one or both of the following:
!c)" UT403, Performing testing operations;
!d)" UT405, Performing commissioning tests on plant and equipment.

They should also be trained in the safe working procedures contained within this code of practice and
should have the experience, skill and knowledge to undertake the commissioning of lifts following
installation or refurbishment.
5.1.6 Other tradespersons
Other tradespersons such as cleaners, electricians, welders, builders etc. working within the lift industry
should be competent in their practising trades. They should also possess demonstrable competence in basic
lift safety and procedures, or be under relevant supervision.

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5.2 General
5.2.1 Responsibility for work on site
A suitably qualified person (see 5.1) should be appointed to be responsible for all work on the site relating
to the lift installation, and should be fully aware of their duties.
The site person in charge should ascertain who is acting on behalf of the owner in order that they can report
the start, progress and completion of the work.
Any work carried out on lifts should be performed only by authorized persons, supervised and instructed
on the work and on how it is to be carried out safely. The instructions should:
a) where necessary, be in the form of written safe systems of work which might already be included in
training programmes;
b) ensure the safety of other persons who could be at risk even if they are not involved in the actual work
being undertaken on a lift, e.g. persons intending to travel in the lift.
The lift contractor or other persons authorized to carry out work on a lift installation should advise the
owner of risks that could arise as a result of the work.
5.2.2 Liaison
Before starting work or taking a lift out of service, the lift contractor should advise the owners site
representative of the intention to do so.
The site person in charge should establish contact with the owners site representative in order that
emergency assistance can be summoned if required, and also to determine whether any special precautions
or procedures need to be taken.
NOTE

Such precautions can become necessary owing to environmental factors, e.g. where children are present in the vicinity.

5.2.3 Personal protective equipment

Personal protective equipment should be provided as identified by risk assessment. Head protection,
gloves, eye protection, hearing protection, respirators, face masks, safety harnesses etc. should be provided,
and used as required. Such equipment should be maintained in a serviceable condition and replaced as
necessary.
NOTE

Attention is drawn to the Personal Protective Equipment Regulations 1992 [8].

5.2.4 Electrical equipment

The lift contractor should use only the electrical supplies provided by the owner.
Work should not be carried out on or near to live electrical equipment, unless working in this way is
unavoidable. In such instances, work should be carried out only by an authorized person, implementing a
safe system of work that has been established by a risk assessment.
NOTE 1

Attention is drawn to the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 [9].

NOTE 2 On multiple installations an electrical hazard can exist. Although an individual lift may be electrically isolated, it is
possible for electrical power to be supplied from a common/shared control panel.

COMMENTARY ON 5.2.4. The integrity of the electrical supply is solely the responsibility of the owner.
5.2.5 Removal of lift from service
If delegated to do so by the owner, the lift contractor should display a safety sign where a lift is removed
from service, to warn others that the lift is out of service (see Figure D.1).
5.2.6 Housekeeping
The lift industry, in conjunction with the owner, should establish procedures for:
a) the avoidance of build-up of waste materials in wells;
b) the control and safe disposal of waste and other items and substances that are potentially injurious to
health and safety.
NOTE 1

Attention is drawn to the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 1999 [4].

NOTE 2 Examples of potentially hazardous items and substances include hypodermic needles, human waste and radioactive
materials.

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5.2.7 Safety file

Following the initial installation of a lift, the safety file should be made available to the owner. The file
should indicate:
a) the major aspects of the installation process;
b) servicing and maintenance requirements;
c) any special operations where a particular method needs to be adopted;
d) specific instructions for the dismantling and disposal of the lift at the end of its working life.
NOTE

The technical dossier described in BS EN 81-1 and BS EN 81-2 could be used to form the basis of the safety file.

COMMENTARY ON 5.2.7. The safety file is retained by the owner until further work is carried out on the lift
installation, when it is made available to persons carrying out the work (see 4.2.7).
5.2.8 Effects on the occupants
Potential disruption, arising from the lift works, to the occupants of the premises should be assessed and
minimized.
5.2.9 Access to tools, equipment and materials
Arrangements should be made between the lift contractor and the owner for:
a) safe access to all tools, equipment and materials at workplaces;
b) the provision of suitable and clearly identified storage space for tools, equipment, materials and any
portable access equipment;
c) the provision of alternative access routes as may become necessary during the works being
undertaken.
NOTE

These are some elements of the provision of safe systems of work (see 3.22).

5.2.10 Permits to work

Where appropriate, the lift contractor should obtain a permit to work from the owner (see 5.5.1.6).
5.2.11 Installation, major repair and dismantling
Where installation, major repair or dismantling is taking place, the procedures given in Annex E should be
followed.
NOTE The procedures given in Annex E are specific to the activities associated with installation, major repair and dismantling.
They are additions, not alternatives, to the procedures detailed in clause 5.

5.3 Risk assessment

The lift contractor should undertake a risk assessment together with the owner, to establish safety
measures to ensure the safety of persons engaged in undertaking the work and persons using the lifts.
NOTE

Attention is drawn to the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 [5].

5.4 Well-being of persons working alone

5.4.1 Before any persons are authorized to work alone on a lift, a full site-/task-specific risk assessment
should be carried out and relevant control measures should be implemented.

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5.4.2 It is essential that when an authorized person is working alone the following procedures and
provisions are adopted:
a) before commencing work, the authorized person should register their presence with the owners site
representative as recommended in 5.2.2;
b) suitable arrangements should be made to ensure that the continued well-being of the authorized
person is confirmed periodically at intervals as identified by risk assessment;
c) any persons checking the well-being of authorized persons working alone should have knowledge of
how to organize assistance in the event of an emergency;
d) the specific arrangements and frequency for confirming the well-being of the authorized person should
be described in the relevant safe working procedure;
e) the authorized person working alone should inform a responsible person off-site of their proposed
movements during this period.
NOTE

These procedures are particularly important if an authorized person is working alone in unoccupied premises.

5.5 Working within the well

5.5.1 General
5.5.1.1 All persons working within a well should abide by all relevant safety signs.
NOTE Examples of typical safety signs within a well are shown in Figure D.4, Figure D.5, Figure D.6, Figure D.7, Figure D.8,
Figure D.9 and Figure D.10.

5.5.1.2 Where required, barriers should be erected in front of the landing doors. Landing doors should not
be allowed to remain open any longer than is necessary.
COMMENTARY ON 5.5.1.2. The barriers should have been provided by the owner (see 4.6.2).
5.5.1.3 Prior to any landing door being opened, it should be decided whether the work to be carried out
requires the electrical power supply to be maintained. If not, the main switch should be locked in the off
position. Should the electrical supply need to be maintained, the normal lift control circuit should be
isolated.
5.5.1.4 Safe means of egress should be clearly established before entering the well. The safe means of egress
should exist during all phases of a work activity and should be readily accessible from the workplace.
5.5.1.5 Unauthorized persons should be prevented from entering the machinery space whilst persons are
working within the well (see 5.7.2).
5.5.1.6 The number of persons working within a well at the same time should be kept to a minimum. If
possible, the simultaneous employment of different tradespersons working independently of each other
should be avoided. A permit to work system (see 5.2.10) should be put in place where simultaneous
employment of different trades is unavoidable. A safe system of work should be put in place, and a risk
assessment should be carried out, to identify whether a permit to work system is necessary.
NOTE Significant hazards can arise from the involvement of other tradespersons, e.g. cleaners, electricians, welders and builders.
Work carried out within multiple wells presents particular hazards, which can be eliminated or reduced by taking actions identified
during risk assessment.

5.5.1.7 A lift should not be returned to normal operation after completion of work, until it has been
ascertained that no persons, tools, temporary access equipment, etc., remain within the well. Any
equipment, e.g. a propping device, should be replaced in its proper storage position.
5.5.2 Working on the car top
5.5.2.1 A risk assessment should be carried out prior to the commencement of any work being undertaken
from the car top.
5.5.2.2 Where full control is not provided and the car top is to be used and moved as a work platform, a safe
system of work, based upon risk assessment, should be agreed between the lift contractor and the owner.
The recommendations contained within the Safety Assessment Federation Limited (SAFed) document,
Recommendations Safe working on lifts Car top controls, should be implemented.
NOTE Working on a car top can be extremely dangerous and in recent years a number of industry fatalities have resulted from
inadequate provisions. It is extremely hazardous when working without full control being available to the person riding on the car.

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5.5.2.3 Whenever the car is stationary the stopping device should be operated.
NOTE Persons working on the top of a car are at particular risk when they are unprepared for the lift to be set in motion. Examples
of accidents associated with moving cars have been due either to falling or to bodily contact with the well structure and/or equipment.

5.5.2.4 The correct operation of the car top control station functions should be verified before the car top is
accessed or any work activity commenced.
5.5.2.5 The number of persons travelling on the top of a car at any one time should be kept to a minimum.
One person only should be in sole control of the starting and stopping of the car.
NOTE The procedures adopted for moving the car are of prime importance, and it is essential that all persons working on a car top
are aware of when and how the car is to be moved.

5.5.2.6 Where there is a risk of a person working on a car top becoming trapped and where no means are
provided for escape via either the car or the well, an alarm or voice communication system should be used.
5.5.2.7 Where the safety sign shown in Figure D.9 is displayed, a safety harness should be worn. Suitable
training, information and instructions should be given and extreme care should be exercised in its use
when movement of the lift is necessary.
5.5.3 Working in the pit
5.5.3.1 Lifts should always be moved at inspection speed whilst persons are in the pit.
5.5.3.2 A person entering a pit should first confirm the effectiveness of any stopping device installed. If
there is no stopping device installed, the main power supply should be isolated and locked off.
NOTE Keeping the car and/or landing doors open in order to interrupt the normal control circuit is not on its own an adequate means
of preventing car movement because landing doors can be self-closing. On older installations the stopping device can be of the toggle
type and subject to unintentional operation.

5.5.3.3 When work is being carried out in the pit, a device should be fitted in place from within the well, if
necessary, to restrain a sliding landing door. This device should retain the door within 75 mm of its closed
position so that the door cannot easily be pulled open from the landing side.
COMMENTARY ON 5.5.3.3. Such devices provide additional security for persons working within the pit and
prevent persons outside the well from opening the landing doors.
5.5.3.4 Where a counterweight screen has not been provided or has been removed, a safe system of work
should be implemented. If delegated to do so by the owner, the lift contractor should display a safety sign
(see Figure D.8) in a prominent position.
5.5.3.5 If a mechanical restraint is provided, it should be correctly positioned before access is gained to the
space beneath the car. If the car is to be moved whilst authorized persons are in the well, the restraint
should be retained in its operative position.
COMMENTARY ON 5.5.3.5. The owner should provide a mechanical restraint for electric lifts where the space
below the car is restricted, and for all hydraulic lifts (see 4.5.3.2 and 4.5.3.3).
5.6 Landing entrances
5.6.1 The unlocking and opening of a landing door or gate, when the car is not positioned at a landing,
should be undertaken only when necessary and then only by an authorized person.
5.6.2 Any unlocking device should be kept in a safe and secure place. If an unlocking device is not provided,
a safe system of work should be established.
5.6.3 On completion of the work, it should be verified that the landing door is closed and locked.
5.6.4 A landing door or gate should not be allowed to remain open any longer than is necessary. If a landing
door is to be left unlocked and open for any length of time, a barrier should be erected to protect the open
landing entrance.
COMMENTARY ON 5.6.4. Details of suitable types of barrier, which should be provided by the owner, are given
in 4.6.2.

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BS 7255:2001

5.7 Machinery spaces and pulley rooms

5.7.1 All persons working within a machinery space or pulley room should abide by all relevant safety
signs.
NOTE

An example of a typical safety sign within a machinery space or pulley room is shown in Figure D.11.

5.7.2 Other than when work activities are being carried out within a machinery space/pulley room, the
entrance door(s) to the room(s) should be kept locked to prevent unauthorized access.
5.7.3 On multiple installations, a thorough check should be made before commencing work to establish the
correct relationship between a specific lift and its corresponding well and associated equipment.
COMMENTARY ON 5.7.3. To facilitate this check, the owner should take steps to ensure that each lift and
component part thereof is clearly and uniquely identified, both at or adjacent to the lowest and highest
landing entrances, and within the machinery space (see 4.6.4 and 4.7.8).
5.7.4 A risk assessment should be undertaken to establish safe working procedures where machinery is in
motion or capable of motion.
5.7.5 All permanently installed lifting equipment provided in machinery spaces or pulley rooms should be
used only within its safe working load.
5.8 Safe release of trapped passengers
NOTE Safe release procedures differ for different types of lift passenger release, e.g. traction lifts, drum/chain lifts, hydraulic lifts,
geared or gearless lifts. The general procedures given in 5.8.1 are applicable for all types of lift. Additional procedures for electric
traction lifts and hydraulic lifts are given in 5.8.2 and 5.8.3 respectively.

5.8.1 General
5.8.1.1 Only trained and authorized persons should undertake the safe release of trapped passengers.
!NOTE 1" It is important that the release of passengers is carried out only by authorized persons who have received the
necessary training, because it is dangerous for any other persons to attempt to do so. A failure to take adequate precautions may
render the authorized person concerned guilty of negligence should an accident occur.
!NOTE 2 The full range of competencies contained within NVQ EOR/202 might not be required for persons carrying out the safe
release of trapped passengers. See also 4.1.3."

5.8.1.2 If contracted to do so, the lift contractor should send to the site the requisite number of trained
persons to carry out the safe release of trapped passengers.
5.8.1.3 All release operations to be adopted should be carried out according to the manufacturers or other
authorized instructions for the lift concerned, as permanently displayed in the form of a notice in the
machinery space.
5.8.1.4 An appropriate means should be implemented by which all persons effecting the release of trapped
passengers are able to communicate with one another.
5.8.1.5 To assist the safe release of passengers trapped in a car, an authorized person should be stationed
at the nearest available landing entrance. This person should be in direct communication with those in the
machinery space and the passengers in the car, and should continually reassure the passengers and ensure
that passengers do not attempt to leave the car prematurely.
5.8.1.6 It is imperative that trapped passengers should be warned of the intention to move the car and that
they should not attempt to leave it until they are advised that it is safe to do so.
5.8.1.7 Before commencing the safe release procedures, it is vital that the electrical supply should be
isolated; if lock-off facilities exist, they should be used.
5.8.2 Electric traction lifts
5.8.2.1 There should be two persons in the machinery space (one to operate the brake release and the other
to carry out the hand-winding), with the following exceptions:
a) small lift machines where the hand-winding and brake release equipment are so located that they can
be easily controlled by one person; and
b) larger machines where two persons are needed to operate the hand-winding together and a third
person is needed to control the brake release.

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BS 7255:2001

5.8.2.2 When the manual effort for hand-winding exceeds 400 N with rated load in the car, an emergency
electrical procedure should be carried out. In view of the complexity of the emergency electrical winding
equipment, only authorized and trained persons should carry out the emergency electrical procedure.
NOTE Although the procedure for the safe release is different to that for the manual release of trapped passengers, the principles
laid down in 5.8.1 (with the exception of 5.8.1.7) apply equally to emergency electrical winding.

COMMENTARY ON 5.8.2.2. In a typical installation, operation of the lift machine is achieved by means of a
special control panel in the machinery space. This can be on a flexible lead and plugged into a socket on the
controller cabinet. The lift machine is usually visible from the control box location so that the direction and
degree of movement can be observed and controlled.
5.8.3 Hydraulic lifts
5.8.3.1 There should be at least one person in the machinery space.
NOTE Unlike electric traction lifts, it is usually necessary to have only one person in the machinery space. However, it is advisable
for a second person to be present, to act as a safety monitor.

5.8.3.2 When the machinery space for a hydraulic lift is remote from the well, an effective means of
communication should be used between the person stationed at the landing entrance and the authorized
person in the machinery space. This should be independent of the main electrical supply to the lift, e.g. a
telephone or radio link.
5.9 Observation lifts and partially enclosed wells
5.9.1 The following should be provided:
a) either:
1) car top hand-rails, mid-rails and toe-boards, where practicable; or
2) adequate safety harness anchor points, where car top hand-rails etc. are not practicable;
b) car top treatment to provide a barrier and some weather protection as recommended in BS 5655-6;
c) temporary full height barriers on landings, as recommended in E.2.2, but enhanced by the provision
of additional protection to prevent tools or equipment inadvertently falling from the landing into the well;
d) means to prevent tools or equipment falling from the car top;
e) anti-slip treatment on the car top.
5.9.2 Where safety harness anchor points are provided [see 5.9.1a2)], a safety sign should be displayed on
the car top (see Figure D.9). Where temporary full height barriers on landings are provided [see 5.9.1c)], a
safety sign should be displayed on or near the barriers (see Figure D.3).
5.9.3 When work is to be carried out on observation lifts and partially enclosed wells, a risk assessment
should be made to identify the need for additional precautions. For example:
a) work should not be undertaken under severe weather conditions;
b) suitable clothing should be worn to protect against adverse elements;
c) when protection for a person from falling is not incorporated in the design of the car top, preventative
measures should be taken, e.g. the wearing of a personal safety harness/restraint;
d) only authorized persons should be permitted to clean the glazed exterior of the car or the interior of a
glazed well enclosure (see 4.9.2);
e) precautions should be taken to safeguard persons below from falling objects.
5.10 Regulations
Prior to site work commencing, the lift contractor should ensure that the design has taken into account all
considerations regarding the health and safety of those persons who will undertake the installation and
subsequent servicing, maintenance and final dismantling.
NOTE

Attention is drawn to the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 1994 [7].

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BS 7255:2001

Annex A (informative)
Summary of legal requirements
A.1 General
It is recommended that the full text of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 (HSWA) [10] be
consulted, together with any associated Approved Codes of Practice and guidance.
A.2 Summary of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
Persons concerned with lifts have duties under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 (HSWA) [10],
which include the following.
a) Employers have a duty to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health and safety of their
employees while at work. This includes the provision of plant and systems of work that are safe and
without risk to health, means to safely use and handle articles and substances, necessary information,
instruction, training and supervision, safe means of access and egress and a safe working environment.
b) Employers, the self-employed and employees, have a duty to conduct their undertakings in such a way
as to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that all persons who may be affected by the work activity
are not exposed to risks to their health and safety.
c) Manufacturers, suppliers etc. of articles for use at work have a duty to ensure, so far as is reasonably
practicable, that the articles are so designed and constructed that they will be safe and without risk to
health when they are being set, used, cleaned or maintained.
d) Erectors and installers of articles for use at work have a duty to ensure, so far as is reasonably
practicable, that nothing about the way articles are erected or installed is unsafe or a risk to health.
e) Persons concerned with premises have a duty to persons other than employees who use non-domestic
premises made available to them as a place of work. It is the duty of the person who controls the premises
to take such measures as it is reasonable for them to take to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable,
that the premises, the means of access and egress to and from the premises, and any plant of substance
in the premises, are safe and without risk to health.
A.3 Summary of the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999
The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 (MHSWR) [5] include a requirement
(Regulation 3) that every employer and self-employed person should make a suitable and sufficient
assessment of the risks to health and safety of themselves and others arising out of, or in connection with,
the conduct of the undertaking. The significant findings of the assessment should be recorded. The purpose
of the assessment is to identify and quantify the risk. Employers are expected to implement preventative
and protective measures to eliminate risk. Effective control measures should be put in place to address
residual risks and hazards. The regulations also include requirements on training, health and safety
assistance, information for employees and the requirements to put in place such arrangements as are
appropriate for the effective planning, organization, control, monitoring and review of the preventative and
protective measures necessary.
A.4 Summary of the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 1999
The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 1999 (COSHH) [4] require that hazardous
substances such as oils (used for lift purposes) are not stored in lift machinery areas except in appropriate
containers.

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BS 7255:2001

A.5 Other statutory provisions

In addition to the HSWA, the MHSWR and the COSHH, the following list of statutory provisions are
examples of those that can be applicable to the construction, installation, service and use of lifts:
Lifts Regulations 1997 [2];
Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 (WPR) [3];
Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 1994 (CDM) [7];
Personal Protective Equipment Regulations 1992 (PPE) [8];
Electromagnetic Compatibility (Wireless Telegraphy Apparatus) Certification and Examination Fees
Regulations 1997 (EMCR) [11];
Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 1992 (Amended 1994) (SM(S)R) [12];
Electric Equipment (Safety) Regulations 1994 (EE(S)R) [13];
Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) [14];
Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER) [15].

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BS 7255:2001

Annex B (informative)
Suggested improvements for consideration by the owner with particular
reference to safe working on lifts
B.1 General
Lifts tend to fall into the following categories:
a) those built before the publication of BS EN 81-1:1998, BS EN 81-2:1998 and BS EN 81-3:2001,
without any modification;
b) those built before the publication of BS EN 81-1:1998, BS EN 81-2:1998 and BS EN 81-3:2001, but
with modifications;
c) those built in accordance with the relevant part(s) of the Lifts Regulations 1997 [2].
Lifts in categories a) and b) are likely to have lower standards of safety than lifts in category c).
Owners of lifts in categories a) and b) are encouraged to undertake a programme of improvements to bring
the lifts up to the standard of BS EN 81-1:1998, BS EN 81-2:1998 and BS EN 81-3:2001.
The ideal installation described in this annex can be used as the basis of a further series of technical
improvements that could be made by owners of lifts in all categories, which would raise the safety levels of
those lifts for all persons working on them.
B.2 Suggested improvements
B.2.1 Well
The well lighting is controlled by at least two-way switching from the machinery space and the pit.
B.2.2 Car top
B.2.2.1 A car top control station is provided, where it is necessary for personnel to travel on top of the car,
with a rationalized layout of the controls (see Annex C for a description of a typical car top control station).
B.2.2.2 A well terminal switch (up-test limit switch) is provided, which will stop an ascending car when on
inspection control, such that escape is still possible through the terminal landing doors.
B.2.2.3 All switched socket outlet(s) installed on the car top are provided with RCD protection.
B.2.2.4 Emergency lighting is provided in the event of failure of the normal supply lighting.
B.2.2.5 All rotating parts are painted yellow.
B.2.2.6 The safe refuge space is clearly identified.
B.2.3 Pit
B.2.3.1 All switched socket outlet(s) installed in the pit are provided with RCD protection.
B.2.3.2 Emergency lighting is provided in the event of failure of the normal supply lighting.
B.2.3.3 All rotating parts are painted yellow.
B.2.3.4 The safe refuge space is clearly identified.
B.2.3.5 When a mechanical restraint is positioned under a pit, it is electronically interlocked such that the
lift cannot be moved.
B.2.3.6 Any removable restraint is coloured yellow.
B.2.4 Landing entrances
Each lift is uniquely identified at or adjacent to each landing entrance, with the identification
corresponding to that used in the machinery spaces and pulley rooms.
B.2.5 Machinery spaces and pulley rooms
B.2.5.1 All switched socket outlet(s) installed in the machinery spaces and pulley rooms are provided with
RCD protection.

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BS 7255:2001

B.2.5.2 Emergency lighting is provided in the event of failure of the normal supply lighting.
B.2.5.3 Where access to the main switch is difficult or remote from the lift machine and/or controller, either
or both of the following is provided:
a) a suitable stopping device fitted on or adjacent to the lift machine;
b) a means of interrupting the main supply, on or adjacent to the controller.
B.2.5.4 Notices are prominently displayed within each machinery space giving appropriate guidance on the
treatment for electric shock.
B.2.5.5 All rotating parts are painted yellow.
B.2.5.6 Equipment necessary to effect safe release is identifiable and has a means of suitable storage
within the machinery space. Handwheels are coloured yellow.
B.2.5.7 Manufacturers or other authorized instructions for the safe release procedures are clearly
described and prominently displayed in the form of a notice in the machinery space
(see BS EN 81-1:1998, 15.4.3).
B.2.5.8 Each lift and component part thereof located within a machinery space or pulley room is uniquely
identified, with the identification corresponding with that placed on the landings.

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BS 7255:2001

Annex C (informative)
Car top control stations
C.1 General
Since the first publication of BS 7255 in 1989, accidents associated with car top control stations are still
occurring. Between 1989 and 2000 the number of such reported accidents was:
a) four fatal accidents;
b) four potentially fatal accidents;
c) four amputations;
d) 19 other serious accidents.
The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 [5] introduced legislation that made it
compulsory to carry out a work-based risk assessment. The car top, for the lift maintenance engineer, is a
place of work and therefore requires a risk assessment to identify the hazards and reduce them to their
lowest potential of harm.
When BS 7255 was first published, the main emphasis was on the standardization of car top control station
layouts, in order to avoid confusion and/or accidental operation. This now has to be reviewed in the light of
the requirement of the law.
It was therefore deemed necessary to re-address the layout of the car top control stations, not only to meet
minimum safety requirements but also to incorporate potential improvements.
This annex describes a typical car top control system designed to:
a) establish a safe working environment; and
b) avoid confusion over the various functions of car top control stations.
C.2 !Basic functions
The car top control station provides the following functions:
a) an inspection operation/normal service control device, comprising an up direction button and a
down direction button;
NOTE 1 Details are given in BS EN 81-1:1998, 8.15a), BS EN 81-2:1998, 8.15a), BS EN 81-1:1998, 14.2.1.3 and
BS EN 81-2:1998, 14.2.1.3.

b) a stopping device;
NOTE 2 Details are given in BS EN 81-1:1998, 8.15b), BS EN 81-2:1998, 8.15b), BS EN 81-1:1998, 14.2.2,
BS EN 81-2:1998, 14.2.2, BS EN 81-1:1998, 14.1.2.2 and BS EN 81-2:1998, 14.1.2.2.

c) an electrical socket outlet.

NOTE 3 Details are given in BS EN 81-1:1998, 8.15c), BS EN 81-2:1998, 8.15c), BS EN 81-1:1998, 13.6 and
BS EN 81-2:1998, 13.6.

Figure C.1 shows a typical arrangement of basic layout for car top operating buttons and switches as given
in BS EN 81-1 and BS EN 81-2.

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BS 7255:2001

INSPECTION

NORMAL
UP

STOP

STOP

STOP

STOP

UP

DOWN

DOWN

Figure C.1 Typical arrangement of basic layout for car top operating buttons and switches
as given in BS EN 81-1 and BS EN 81-2
C.3 Enhanced functions
C.3.1 General
In addition to the functions listed in C.2, the car top control station may provide the following functions as
well, although these have a lesser priority:
a) a door open/close switch;
b) an integral light fitting, with switch, that can incorporate car top emergency lighting;
c) emergency signalling (alarm button or voice communication) at least to the same provision as that
provided to passengers;
d) an additional stopping device, as in C.2b), on the casing of the control station to provide access from
the rear of the station;
e) the socket outlet in C.2c) is RCD-protected, switched, and fused to 5 A.
Figure C.2 shows a typical arrangement of enhanced layout for car top operating buttons and switches.

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BS 7255:2001

Green
background

INSPECTION

NORMAL

STOP

STOP

STOP

STOP

Yellow
background

UP

Blue
background

UP
RUN

OPEN

Red
stop
button

RUN

DOOR
CLOSE
DOWN

White
background

ENGINEERS ALARM

DOWN
ENGINEERS ALARM

Red
background

Heavy black line indicates position

of shrouding around each control
Stop switch shown in stop position
Broken outline indicates run position
Red L.E.D. illuminated car top alarm
button is optional

Figure C.2 Typical arrangement of enhanced layout for car top operating buttons and
switches
C.3.2 Construction
C.3.2.1 The car top control station is mounted vertically.
C.3.2.2 The car top control station is mounted on the car top, so that its main control face is towards the
landing entrance.
C.3.2.3 The car top control station is placed in an easily accessible position and, where practicable, is no
more than 1 m from the entry point for inspection or maintenance personnel.
NOTE

Where this is not practicable, an additional stopping device is provided which is no more than 1 m from the landing entrance.

C.3.2.4 The enclosure is constructed to withstand a force of 1 000 N without permanent deformation or
damage.
C.3.2.5 The main control face and any other removable covers are secured by captive fasteners and are not
hinged.
C.3.2.6 All fixings for the operational components are on the inside of the enclosure.
C.3.2.7 A permanently affixed electrical hazard symbol is displayed, when appropriate, together with the
text Danger live mains supply even when supply disconnected, on the main control face, any removable
covers and on the inside of the enclosure.
C.3.2.8 All operating buttons and switches are fixed so as to prevent rotation, using a key or similar
technique.
Note deleted.

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BS 7255:2001

C.3.3 Buttons, switches, shrouds, notices and covers

C.3.3.1 All control buttons and switches are independently shrouded.
C.3.3.2 All shrouds are of a different geometric shape.
C.3.3.3 Shroud arrangements incorporate features that prevent objects jamming their operation.
C.3.3.4 All buttons and switches are differently coloured in order to provide clear differentiation.
C.3.3.5 All colouring is wear-resistant and fade-resistant.
C.3.3.6 All buttons, except the stop button, are recessed into, or flush with, their shrouds.
C.3.3.7 Only the stop button is coloured red. All other buttons are coloured to present the maximum
differentiation with their respective backgrounds.
C.3.3.8 The stop button:
a) is a push/pull type (push to stop);
b) has a minimum diameter of 50 mm;
c) is always coloured red;
d) is always proud of its shroud, when it is in the run position;
e) has a visual indication of both operational positions;
f) has the word STOP placed on or near it;
g) is positioned at the extreme top right position on the panel.
C.3.3.9 The inspection/normal operation switch:
a) is a bi-stable switch, protected against involuntary operation;
b) has the words NORMAL and INSPECTION placed on or near it;
c) is positioned at the extreme top left position on the panel.
C.3.3.10 The up direction button, the run button and the down direction button:
a) are arranged vertically in line, with the up direction button at the top;
b) have the words UP, DOWN and RUN placed on or near them;
c) are positioned in the centre of the panel.
C.3.3.11 The door control switch:
a) has the words DOOR, OPEN and CLOSE placed on or near it;
b) is positioned at the extreme bottom left position on the panel.
C.3.3.12 The alarm button (if provided):
a) has the word ALARM placed on or near it;
b) is positioned below the stop button;
c) illuminates when operated.
C.3.4 Electrical
The electrical functions are in accordance with BS EN 60204-1 and BS EN 60204-32."

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BS 7255:2001

Annex D (informative)
Typical safety signs
Figure D.1 to Figure D.11 show black-and-white reproductions of the coloured safety signs that are
recommended for use when work is being carried out on lifts. The signs are all in accordance with
BS 5378-1 and BS 5378-3.

Ex
a

Lift out of
service

pl

NOTE Owners should note that there are two categories of signage that can be encountered by employees in a building
(see commentary on 4.1.6).

Symbol:

black exclamation mark, yellow background, black triangle.

Panel:

black lettering, yellow background.

Remainder:

white.

Figure D.1 Safety sign for use on a landing when a lift is taken out of service
(see 4.2.5 and 5.2.5)

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DANGER
Lift machinery

am
pl

Unauthorised
access prohibited

BS 7255:2001

Ex

Keep door
locked

Symbol:

upper: black exclamation mark, yellow background, black triangle;

middle: black hand, red ring and bar, white remainder;
lower: white exclamation mark on blue background.

Panel:

upper: black lettering, yellow background;

middle: white lettering, red background;
lower: white lettering, blue background.

Remainder:

white.

Figure D.2 Safety sign for use on a machinery space or pulley room door
(see 4.2.15, 4.7.1 and 4.7.11)

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Access
forbidden to
unauthorised
persons

Ex

am

DANGER
Lift
well

pl
e

BS 7255:2001

Symbol:

left-hand: black exclamation mark, yellow background, black triangle;

right-hand: black hand, red ring and bar, white elsewhere.

Panel:

left-hand: black lettering, yellow background;

right-hand: white lettering, red background.

Remainder:

white.

Figure D.3 Safety sign for use on an inspection door or trap giving access to a well
(see 4.5.1.5, 4.5.3.9, 5.9.2, E.2.1.4 and E.2.2.5)

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Ex

am

Reduced
headroom

pl
e

BS 7255:2001

Symbol:

black exclamation mark, yellow background, black triangle.

Panel:

black lettering, yellow background.

Remainder:

white.

Figure D.4 Safety sign for use on a car top where a reduced headroom exists
(see 4.5.1.5 and 5.5.1.1)

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Ex

am

DANGER
Unsafe car roof

pl
e

BS 7255:2001

Symbol:

black exclamation mark, yellow background, black triangle.

Panel:

black lettering, yellow background.

Remainder:

white.

Figure D.5 Safety sign for use on a car top that is unsuitable for carrying persons
(see 4.5.1.5 and 5.5.1.1)

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Ex

am

No car
safety gear

pl
e

BS 7255:2001

Symbol:

black exclamation mark, yellow background, black triangle.

Panel:

black lettering, yellow background.

Remainder:

white.

Figure D.6 Safety sign for use on a car top on a lift installation with no safety gear or other
means to prevent free fall
(see 4.5.1.5, 4.5.2.1 and 5.5.1.1)

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Ex

am

Reduced pit
depth

pl
e

BS 7255:2001

Symbol:

black exclamation mark, yellow background, black triangle.

Panel:

black lettering, yellow background.

Remainder:

white.

Figure D.7 Safety sign for use in a pit where the space below the car is restricted
(see 4.5.1.5, 4.5.3.2 and 5.5.1.1)

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Ex

am

pl

Descending
counterweight

BS 7255:2001

Symbol:

black exclamation mark, yellow background, black triangle.

Panel:

black lettering, yellow background.

Remainder:

white.

Figure D.8 Safety sign for use in a pit with potential danger from a descending
counterweight
(see 4.5.1.5, 4.5.3.5, 5.5.1.1 and 5.5.3.4)

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am
pl

DANGER
Falling hazard

BS 7255:2001

Ex

Fall arrest
equipment must be
worn

Symbol:

upper: black exclamation mark, yellow background, black triangle;

lower: white figure, blue background.

Panel:

upper: black lettering, yellow background;

lower: white lettering, blue background.

Remainder:

white.

Figure D.9 Safety sign for use on a car top with no protection from falling
(see 4.5.1.5, 4.9.1, 5.5.1.1, 5.5.2.7 and 5.9.2)

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BS 7255:2001

pl

Ex

am

Position prop
before working

Symbol:

white exclamation mark, blue circle.

Panel:

white lettering, blue background.

Remainder:

white.

Figure D.10 Safety sign for use in a pit where the space below the car is restricted
(hydraulic lifts only)
(see 4.5.1.5, 4.5.3.3 and 5.5.1.1)
"

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BS 7255:2001

Ex
a

pl
e

DANGER
Falling hazard
Close trap door

Symbol:

black exclamation mark, yellow background, black triangle.

Panel:

black lettering, yellow background.

Remainder:

white.

Figure D.11 Safety sign for use on or near an access trap that gives access to a machinery
space or pulley room
(see 4.7.2 and 5.7.1)

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BS 7255:2001

Annex E (normative)
Additional procedures for installation, major repair, and dismantling:
responsibilities of owners and persons working on lifts
NOTE

Attention is drawn to the Lifts Regulations 1997 [2] and the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 1994 [7].

COMMENTARY ON ANNEX E. Many of the activities associated with the installation and dismantling of lifts
are similar to those elsewhere in the construction industry. The hazards and safeguards are covered by
regulations and well-established practices.
As it is common practice for lifts to be installed into a completed well and machinery space, only those
practices that are particular to the lift industry are described in this annex.
E.1 Suspended work platforms
NOTE 1 Attention is drawn to the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 [15], which contain specific
requirements regarding the use of suspended work platforms.
NOTE 2 During installation and/or dismantling works, manually or electrically driven suspended work platforms may be used, but
these could present other hazards. These platforms are often the actual car sling or a false car running on the normal guide rails
which are normally the first items to be fitted into a well and are used, in most cases, for their erection.

E.1.1 All platforms should be provided with suitable guard rails, toe-boards and some form of overhead
protection.
E.1.2 Calculations should be carried out to determine the safe working load of a platform, which should be
prominently displayed. Care should be taken not to exceed the safe working load.
E.2 Temporary protection at landings
E.2.1 New buildings under construction
E.2.1.1 Where new buildings are under construction, the owner should ensure that temporary protection
is erected at landings. If instructed to do so by the owner, the lift contractor should erect the temporary
protection.
COMMENTARY ON E.2.1.1. Most of the problems arising from the protection of landing entrances in completed
buildings (as described in 5.6) do not arise in new buildings under construction. Protection for landing
entrance openings in such buildings is normally only needed to prevent persons or objects falling through
the opening.
E.2.1.2 The type of protection erected should be identical to that used elsewhere on construction sites,
i.e. guard rails, mid-rails and toe-boards, and should be in position at all times except during the passage
of materials and of persons working on the lift(s).
E.2.1.3 If a car is to be moved under power and the landing doors are not finally fitted, a full height
enclosure with an access door should be erected to protect exposed openings into the well. The access door
should be fitted with a lock having keys, which can be opened without a key from inside the enclosure.
E.2.1.4 A safety sign should be displayed on all temporary protection at landings (see Figure D.3).
E.2.2 Existing buildings
E.2.2.1 When existing lifts are being modernized or dismantled, the landing doors should be retained and
kept locked, where possible, until they are replaced.
E.2.2.2 If the landing doors cannot be retained and locked, a temporary full height enclosure with an access
door should be erected to protect exposed openings into the well. The access door should be fitted with a
lock having keys, which can be opened without a key from inside the enclosure.
E.2.2.3 Guard rails, mid-rails and toe-boards should be erected across each landing entrance within any
temporary full height enclosures.
E.2.2.4 If a landing entrance forms part of the fire integrity of the building, any temporary full height
enclosure around that entrance should be of an equivalent fire rating.
E.2.2.5 A safety sign should be displayed on all temporary protection at landings (see Figure D.3).

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BS 7255:2001

E.3 Temporary electrical supplies and lighting

Temporary electrical supplies and lighting for all workplaces should be provided as recommended in
BS 5655-6.
E.4 Environment
E.4.1 Risk assessments for controlling the environment should be carried out.
NOTE

Legal responsibilities are summarized in Annex A.

E.4.2 The generation of excessive noise or toxic fumes in the confined spaces usually experienced in lift
installations should wherever possible be avoided. If this is not possible, persons working on the lift
installation should wear appropriate protective equipment.
E.5 Fire hazards
Care should be taken to avoid the accumulation of flammable materials or litter in work spaces, especially
when flame cutting or welding is in progress. In these latter circumstances, fire extinguishers should be
located in the vicinity.
E.6 Dismantling
When an installation is being dismantled, items of equipment should be lowered under control and should
not be allowed to free-fall.

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BS 7255:2001

Bibliography
Standards publications
BS 5266-1:1999, Emergency lighting Part 1: Code of practice for the emergency lighting of premises other
than cinemas and certain other specified premises used for entertainment.
BS 5655-11, Lifts and service lifts Part 11: Recommendations for the installation of new, and the
modernization of, electric lifts in existing buildings.
BS 5655-12, Lifts and service lifts Part 12: Recommendations for the installation of new, and the
modernization of, hydraulic lifts in existing buildings.
BS EN 81-3:2001, Safety rules for the construction and installation of lifts Part 3: Electric and hydraulic
service lifts.
BS EN 60204-1:1993, Safety of machinery Electrical equipment of machines Part 1: Specification for
general requirements.
BS EN 60204-32:1998, Safety of machinery Electrical equipment of machines Part 32: Requirements
for hoisting machines.
Lift industry training
EMTA2) NVQ EOR/202, Basic lift safety.
EMTA NVQ Level 3 qualifications:
Q1050075, Lift and escalator installation;
Q1027610, Lift and escalator service and repair.
EMTA NVQ UC401, Health and safety within industry.
EMTA NVQ UC402, Working with data and information.
EMTA NVQ UT403, Performing testing operations.
EMTA NVQ UT405, Performing commissioning tests on plant and equipment.
Publications concerned with safety
[1] Health and Safety Executive Guidance Note PM 26, Safety at lift landings, 1981.
London: The Stationery Office.3)
Safety Assessment Federation Limited (SAFed), Guidelines on the thorough examination and testing of
lifts, 1998. London: Safety Assessment Federation Limited.4)
Engineering Employers Federation, Lift safety Site handbook, 1996.5)

Engineering and Marine Training Authority, EMTA House, 14 Upton Road, Watford, Hertfordshire WD1 7EP.
!Website: http://www.emta.org.uk."
3) Available from HSE Books, PO Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA. Telephone 01787 881165.
!Website: http://www.hsebooks.co.uk."
4) Available from Safety Assessment Federation Limited (SAFed), Nutmeg House, 60 Gainsford Street, Butlers Wharf,
London SE1 2NY. Telephone 020 7403 0987. !Website: http://www.safed.co.uk."
5) Available from Engineering Employers Federation, Broadway House, Tothill Street, London SW1H 9NQ.
Telephone 020 7222 7777. !Website: http://www.eef.org.uk."
2)

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BS 7255:2001

Other publications
[2] GREAT BRITAIN. Lifts Regulations 1997. London: The Stationery Office.
[3] GREAT BRITAIN. Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992.
London: The Stationery Office.
[4] GREAT BRITAIN. Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 1999.
London: The Stationery Office.
[5] GREAT BRITAIN. Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999.
London: The Stationery Office.
[6] GREAT BRITAIN. Low Voltage Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 1989.
London: The Stationery Office.
[7] GREAT BRITAIN. Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 1994.
London: The Stationery Office.
[8] GREAT BRITAIN. Personal Protective Equipment Regulations 1992. London: The Stationery Office.
[9] GREAT BRITAIN. Electricity at Work Regulations 1989. London: The Stationery Office.
[10] GREAT BRITAIN. Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. London: The Stationery Office.
[11] GREAT BRITAIN. Electromagnetic Compatibility (Wireless Telegraphy Apparatus) Certification and
Examination Fees Regulations 1997. London: The Stationery Office.
[12] GREAT BRITAIN. Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 1992, Amended 1994.
London: The Stationery Office.
[13] GREAT BRITAIN. Electric Equipment (Safety) Regulations 1994. London: The Stationery Office.
[14] GREAT BRITAIN. Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998.
London: The Stationery Office.
[15] GREAT BRITAIN. Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998.
London: The Stationery Office.

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