LIFTjournal 2/2019

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DIN EN 81-70 accordingly includes mini-
mum requirements for accessibility and
the use of lifts – a basic precondition for
barrier-freedom in multi-floor buildings.
The standard, which had been valid since
2003, has now been revised.
Barrier-freedom in buildings – a subject
repeatedly discussed, not just for the
disabled, but also for older people and
families with small children. DIN EN 81-70:2018,
which had been valid since 2003, has now been
revised. It now specifies numerous aspects re-
garding the nature and equipment of lifts for
further improvement of barrier-freedom, above
all for the disabled.
In future, lift cars must have minimum dimen-
sions of 1,100 x 1,400 mm (width x depth) and
a door width of 900 mm to conveniently admit
someone in a wheelchair with a companion. The
standard even recommends a car size of 1,100 x
2,100 mm for lifts in public buildings. “The idea
is to ensure disabled people are not disadvan-
taged, meaning planners, architects and building
owners should check in good time whether their
lifts correspond to these dimensions,” explained
Björn Sürig, new lift product manager at Kone.
TACTILE BUTTONS
Apart from changes in lift car sizes, DIN EN 81-
70:2018 also includes new contrast requirements
for all operating elements. For example, the lu-
minance contrast of buttons with their surroun-
dings must be 30 to 60 percent to ensure people
with visual impairments can see them. Not new,
but essential in this respect: the buttons must
be tactile, i.e. provided with tangible symbols,
for people with visual impairments.
There are also new features regarding special
car equipment. For example, accessibility may
not be restricted by fittings on the car wall (for
example, handrails). A mirror is mandatory, to
enable wheelchair users to see behind them when
leaving the lift.
“Distribution of lifts corresponding to the
original DIN EN 81-70:2003 is still possible up to
31 May 2020. This is when the transitional period
ends,” noted Sürig. ⇤
More information about standard-compliant lifts:
11 PERSPEKTIVENPERSPECTIVES