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By admin Mobility • Stairlifts • • • • • • • • • • • 0 Comments

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.

Do stair lifts need loler - https://elements.envato.com/senior-man-happy-to-be-able-to-walk-again-WPLNRX7
Envato Elements – Do 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?

Living room with stairs https://elements.envato.com/living-room-with-stairs-PVHUF4J
By admin Lifestyle • Stairlifts • • • • 0 Comments

Can you fit a stairlift on narrow stairs? How wide do they need to be?

Anyone who uses a stairlift knows the independence it provides them in the home.

This invention from the 1920s has developed into an important fixture for those dealing with mobility issues.

Nowadays, fitting a stairlift is a lot easier because they now cater to all types of staircases. Modern stairlifts meet high-quality standards and this makes them a safe option for those that look to move freely up and down their stairs.

There is, of course, a need for many to be more mobile in the home without relying on others to do so. An individual gains relief when it comes to mobility by getting a stairlift installed.

Fit a stairlift on narrow stairs https://elements.envato.com/wooden-residential-stairs-KWVDZRF
Envato Elements – Fit a stairlift on narrow stairs

Can stairlifts be fitted to any stairs?

Any stairs that require a stairlift need to be properly assessed and measured before they are approved for installation.

An open bannister or bannister with spindles is a safety hazard. A stairlift user could slip on the footrests and fall between the gaps of the spindles.

A doorway or passageway at the top or bottom of the stairs could also block stairlift access.

Fortunately, there are ways around this.

Straight stairs are the easiest to install as there are fewer parts that need installing.

Curved stairlifts require a rail that can bend or curve around a set of stairs.

When the time comes to install a stairlift on narrow stairs. One important aspect is to ensure the staircase is wide enough.

Can you fit a stairlift on narrow stairs? How wide do they need to be?

When the time comes to install a stairlift on narrow stairs, stair width is a common problem.

A width of around 750mm (29”) is required if a stairlift is going to fit comfortably.

These measurements will make sure it is safe to do so.

A great way to check if you can install one is to take an average size dining room chair. 

Place it at the bottom of your stairs on the floor, with the back of your chair against the wall.

Sit in your chair and check that you are sitting comfortably with enough room between your legs and the wall in front of you.

Can you fit a stairlift if you have trouble sitting?

People who struggle to bend their knees and hips often have trouble with standing up and sitting down.

There are standing stairlifts or perched stairlifts available for people who come across these problems which are a great alternative if you have narrow stairs.

The only issue with these types of stairlifts is that you need good balance as the movement can make some people feel dizzy. 

For people who suffer from arthritis and have difficulty moving their fingers – pressing buttons can become difficult – stairlifts can also be installed with toggle controls.

The great thing about stairlifts is they can be installed in most people’s homes fuss-free and they have a range of features to suit the majority of people’s needs. If you are interested in finding out more about stairlifts, why not get in touch with us here?