Can an accessibility lift be self-installed?

Detailed Explanation

In the past few years, there has been an increase in the concept of providing lifts over the internet and from storefronts or warehouses with the intent that the end-user (consumer) is expected to perform his or her own installation and servicing.(Self-installation). The practice is most evident with stairway chair lifts, but vertical platform lifts and other accessibility lift models, both used and new are also available through this marketing method.

Marketing to consumers via the internet or a storefront or elsewhere may initially appear to be acceptable. The perception is that it provides accessibility equipment at a lower cost for those who can least afford it. However, it may also create a hazard to the consumer! How does the consumer ensure that the equipment is installed:

• In a safe manner?
• in a manner that ensures operational safety?
• in conformance with local codes and regulations?

Providers of equipment that is marketed direct to consumers have a responsibility to ensure that it is installed and serviced by experienced technicians.

Accessibility Lifts today are quite sophisticated both mechanically and electrically/electronically. It is not reasonable to assume that a person unfamiliar with lifts and their installation or service requirements would be aware of the potential hazards likely to be encountered if a lift is not installed or serviced correctly. With current technology, that knowledge is only available when experienced technicians are utilized.

Some points of interest:

• Many jurisdictions require a lift to be installed in conformance with local or National Codes. In many localities, the codes referenced are the ASME A17.1, the A18.1, and the NFPA70 (National Electrical Code). A consumer installing a lift would not be familiar with the safety requirements of the applicable codes such as clearances, electrical safety, proper anchoring, etc. Such non-conformance to the codes may make the installation unsafe.
  
  
• Licensing and permitting required. Many jurisdictions require a lift to be installed by a licensed, trained technician and the lift inspected by the local authority having jurisdiction prior to placing it in service.
  
  
• The potential hazards of “self-installation” apply to both used and new equipment. There are many “used” lifts available on the market today. It is the position of AEMA that all lifts, new or used, must be installed and serviced by experienced technicians.

Source: AEMA An Association of Members of the Accessibility Industry