Do stairlifts need LOLER? What are the requirements?
When the time comes and people get older, some may find it difficult to move around because of mobility issues.
Living in a two-storey home is one place it can become tough because of stairs.
People find it difficult to move around the house without the use of a stairlift.
Those that need a stairlift installed are often, quite rightly, curious about the requirements. So, let’s take a look at what you can expect from a stairlift installation. We find out more about whether stairlifts need LOLER.
Can stairlifts fit on any stairs?
Stairlifts are required to meet important safety measures so the stairs need to be wide enough.
To find out how wide they need to be you can read our article stairlift width requirements here.
The great thing is that most stairlifts can fit on curved or straight stairs.
You do not need to move your carpet because the screws used can go through the carpet, securing the stairlift to the stairs.
Some people need stairlifts outdoors and this is made possible by securing the stairlifts to concrete or tiles.
Do stairlifts need LOLER? What are the requirements?
Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment (LOLER) are required by people who have control over lifting equipment.
Anyone who monitors lifting equipment has a responsibility to make sure they are safe.
In most cases, this affects people at work because it involves more supervision.
Private stairlift owners do not need to follow LOLER guidelines since they are used in private homes and flats.
Often the companies that provide the equipment will take their own safety measures.
How long does it take to get a stairlift fitted?
There are different types of staircases, therefore, the length of time it takes to fit a stairlift will depend on those conditions.
A straight stairlift with little complications takes between one and two hours.
The more stairs there are, or the more turns there are to deal with, means a stairlift is fitted in four to five hours.
Above all else, the most important this is that the stairlift is fitted safely and securely.
How fast do stairlifts go?
Thankfully, stairlifts do not go as fast as a roller coaster. Stairlifts move slowly up and downstairs to make sure the journey is safe and comfortable.
It goes at a speed of 0.15 meters per second and will take about a minute to move from A to B as a result.
Stairlifts are a great help to those struggling with mobility in the home.
At Guardian stairlifts, we offer advice on a wide range of stairlifts.
You can always get in contact with us here if you need any help to bring more mobility to your home.
Can you fit a stairlift on narrow stairs? How wide do they need to be?