Why Every Public Building Should Invest in a Reliable Wheelchair Lift

Around the world, thousands of people struggle with a range of mobility issues. Performing the simplest of tasks that are part of one’s daily routine presents challenges that healthy individuals cannot even begin to contemplate.

The worst affected are those who are bound to wheelchairs. For them, life is unimaginably hard, forcing them to withdraw from most social interactions and having to rely on the care and kindness of others. While their lives might be manageable within the four walls of their houses, visiting public spaces independently for either work or recreation is out of the question. While wheelchairs can move quite easily on flat, level surfaces, they cannot overcome barriers such as stairs or areas of varying levels. This is where public utility equipment such as wheelchair lifts can radically improve the quality of life for mobility impaired and wheelchair-bound people. Let us understand what wheelchair lifts are, how they are quietly revolutionizing the world of accessibility, and why it makes sense for public buildings to invest in them.

What are Wheelchair Lifts?

Quite simply, a wheelchair lift, also known as vertical wheelchair lift, is an elevation device that helps transport wheelchairs and their occupants from one level to another. They consist of a sturdy platform that a wheelchair can be rolled onto. Using a combination of electric and hydraulic power, and operated through electronic controls, they move between different levels of a multi-storied building, providing smooth, seamless, and safe access to its various levels.

A key feature of wheelchair lifts for buildings is that they do not require excavation of a lift duct, nor do they need dedicated infrastructure for installation. They take up very little space and can be customized to suit different types of architecture, even older buildings that were never designed to accommodate a lift. They can be installed both inside and outside a building, depending on the requirement and availability of space.

How to Use a Wheelchair Lift

Another key aspect of a vertical wheelchair lift is how easy it is to use. A wheelchair-bound person who can use their hands do not require help from anyone else. They can summon the lift using external control push buttons. Then, they can easily wheel themselves onto the platform, which is equipped with a small ramp. They can then operate the wheelchair lift using the easy-to-reach control panel to access different levels of the building.

Wheelchair Lift Safety Features

The most important aspect of wheelchair lifts is that they are extremely safe and reliable. The hydraulic-powered system is highly stable and moves the lift in a steady, controlled manner at slow speeds ranging between 0.06–0.1 m/s. The platform floor features a skid-proof checkered plate surface and is equipped with strong aluminum rails. The wheelchair lift is also equipped with emergency stop buttons both inside and outside the lift.

Advantages of Wheelchair Lifts for Public Buildings

Public buildings and commercial establishments such as banks, post offices, malls, theatres, etc. are difficult spaces for disabled people to access. Installing wheelchair lifts for public buildings at strategic locations would be a welcome move and great confidence booster for wheelchair bound people. Let us understand the ramifications for businesses to invest in reliable wheelchair lifts.

• Accessibility: Installing wheelchair lifts in their facilities would enable businesses to eliminate accessibility barriers and create a more user-friendly infrastructure. Wheelchair bound individuals would be able to access these establishments without assistance and can carry out their activities with autonomy and self-respect—two factors that they are otherwise forced to sacrifice in their day-to-day endeavors.
• Equal Opportunity: Installing wheelchair lifts sends out the message that the business is accommodating and inclusive of all types of people. It demonstrates the establishment’s concern for people with disabilities and their willingness to create a welcoming space where everyone has equal opportunity to avail of the services provided by them. You also create a more diverse and inclusive workspace for your employees.
• Compliance: Many countries have strict laws and regulations in place to ensure that all commercial and public establishments are disabled-friendly. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in USA, Disability Law 2000 in Saudi Arabia and various other laws across the world seeking to eliminate disability discrimination require public spaces to be accessible by all. Installing wheelchair lifts, among other facilities, allow businesses to comply with statutory requirements and help them to avoid penalty for non-compliance.
• Reduces Risk and Liability: Commercial establishments that have not installed wheelchair lifts are in danger of creating a potentially hazardous environment. Infirm, elderly, and disabled people might injure themselves trying to access these places, while wheelchair-bound individuals might feel discriminated against. These situations can have legal ramifications, leading to lengthy and expensive lawsuits. Thus, investing in reliable wheelchair lifts can help reduce risk and liability to the business.
• Good Business Sense: Finally, installing wheelchair lifts in your public or commercial facility is ultimately good for your business. You have more people visiting your establishment and paying to use your services. Your employees are happy, which helps boost their morale. Your rating as a welcoming space goes up, which does wonders to your reputation and helps reduce your marketing budget. The upfront costs might be high, but it pays for itself in the long run.

Conclusion

Investing in wheelchair lifts for public buildings is a smart and prudent decision for businesses. They are safe, comfortable, and convenient to use and allow people with disabilities to visit public spaces with confidence, giving them the opportunity to interact socially and be more independent, while retaining their sense of self-worth. From a business perspective, it shows that you care for all your customers, irrespective of their disabilities, reduces risk and liability, helps comply with statutory laws and avoid penalties, and increases your customer base. 

About SAB TECH

SAB TECH is a leading manufacturer and supplier of accessibility solutions. Based in Saudi Arabia, the company specializes in advanced hydraulics and PLC technologies, the foundation of their highly reliable wheelchair lift systems. SAB TECH’s vertical wheelchair lift features a compact structure consisting of a 1500 x 1200 mm platform (customizable) that can go to lifting heights from 0.6 to 6 m, making it suitable for installation in tight and restricted spaces. It is easy to install, use, and maintain and offers a load capacity of 250 kg.

Get in touch with SAB TECH today to explore how you can make your establishment more accessible and disabled-friendly.