AIA Continuing Education

Yes, all our lifts are designed and installed to comply with ADA requirements as part of an accessible route, as outlined in ADA Standards for Accessible Design.

In new construction, their use is limited to specific cases such as performing areas, speaker platforms, seating dispersion, rooms for fewer than five occupants, courtrooms, outdoor dining terraces, and where site constraints prevent ramps or elevators.

ADA compliance extends beyond the lift itself to include the surrounding space, such as door approaches, ramps, and control placement.

MEA stands for Materials and Equipment Acceptance. In NYC, there is no MEA requirement or pre-approval process for platform lifts. They must be permitted and inspected by the Elevator Division, like commercial elevators. For plans, simply note "to be filed under separate elevator permit." While requests for MEA#s still occur, the process hasn’t applied to wheelchair lifts for over 20 years. The city's MEA index lists wheelchair lifts as a category, but it contains outdated or incorrect information.

Wheelchair lifts, referred to as Platform Lifts, include Vertical Platform Lifts (VPL) and Inclined Platform Lifts (IPL). While the ADA provides civil rights guidelines for accessibility, enforceable codes come from standards like ICC A117.1 and ASME A18.1, referenced by State Building Codes.

• ADA Standards: Offer scoping and technical rules, particularly Section 410, for accessibility in public and commercial spaces.

• ICC A117.1: Enforceable through State Building Codes, it aligns with ADA guidelines and covers design details like door approaches, ramps, and platform sizes.

• ASME A18.1: Focuses on safety standards for Platform and Stairway Lifts.

Always consult your State Building Code for specific requirements, as states may modify these standards.

Yes: If the portable lift is configured for unassisted operation, it must comply with ASME A18.1 safety standards, as it functions like a vertical platform lift. ADA requires unassisted access, so portable lifts should not be exempt from safety compliance. The term "portable" refers to equipment easily moved but not permanently fixed, and reputable manufacturers produce portable lifts that meet safety standards.

No: Some jurisdictions (AHJ) may not require permits or inspections for portable lifts. However, sellers and installers remain liable for compliance with codes and standards, even without inspection. If the lift causes an accident or violates ADA requirements, liability may fall entirely on the contractor or seller, often beyond insurance coverage.

To ensure safety and compliance, choose lifts from reputable manufacturers that meet ASME A18.1 standards and avoid cutting corners to reduce costs.

Inclined Platform Lifts (IPLs) and Vertical Platform Lifts (VPLs) are legal and recognized by the ADA Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG) as part of an accessible route in existing buildings. They are permitted in new construction only under very limited circumstances.