If you need to increase the access to your home or building, one of the easiest ways to do it is by installing a platform lift. If you’re not sure what they are exactly, or how they operate, here’s what you need to know.  To look at what's available, just talk to your local lifts professional.

About Platform Lifts

A platform lift can be simply described as a flat platform that rises up and down as needed. They are ideal for providing access for people that would otherwise struggle to reach an area, such as where there are staircases (low or high), or where wheelchair access is required.

Types of Platform Lifts

There are different types of platform lifts available so you can choose the one that best meets your needs.  Some popular types include:

• Low rise platform lifts – the low rise lift is perfect for installing inside or outside the home and they can travel up to a metre high (but some models may be able to go higher if needed).  Low rise lifts are perfect for wheelchair users but are also great for transporting prams, furniture, and other goods.  The lift is operated with the push of a button and has full safety features such as handrails, protective arms and entrance guarding.
  
  
• Lifting platforms – a lifting platform is ideal for helping the mobility impaired and wheelchair users access areas such as stages, split level foyers, and homes that are entered by walking up small staircases (and there’s no ramp provided).  Depending on the size of the model, the lift can carry a person up to 875mm.  Lifting platforms are ideal if you need a semi portable solution as they can be moved by two people when needed.
  
  
• High lift platforms – this is a type of platform lift that is capable of transferring people over distances of up to 12 metres with a number of stops along the way.  This makes them great for multi storey homes or dwellings.  The control system is fully enclosed within the lift shaft itself and it is installed directly on the floor so you don’t have to worry about excavation or anything complicated like that.  The controls are very easy to use, and full safety features are included such as safety edges, limited speeds, emergency stops and so on.  The lift itself is very attractive and will fit well within any home.
  
  
• External platform lifts – these lifts are designed to be used outdoors and thus have toughened and laminated panels.  They can rise up to two metres high, have an internal ramp for easy access, and controls that you hold to operate (so that the lift only moves when you hold the button down). Safety features are included such as a special safety plate that stops the lift when it is touched.