Elevator Safety Systems Protect Passengers During Power Failures

Imagine being trapped in a cramped elevator during a power outage, anxiety creeping in as minutes tick by. This unsettling scenario may soon become a relic of the past, thanks to Automatic Rescue Devices (ARDs). These unassuming systems act as silent heroes, springing into action during emergencies to ensure passenger safety.

Automatic Rescue Devices serve as critical hidden systems within platform lifts. When main power fails, ARDs immediately activate, automatically guiding the lift to the nearest safe floor for passenger evacuation. This technology transcends mere equipment—it represents a fundamental safety assurance.

A typical ARD system comprises:

• A 24V 7Ah sealed lead-acid or lithium battery pack
• A compact control board
• A motor relay mechanism

During power failures, the system detects voltage loss within milliseconds, initiating controlled movement at 0.1–0.15 m/s—a speed compliant with British safety standards that ensures smooth operation. Each charge cycle supports multiple rescue operations, with automatic recharging upon power restoration. Integrated diagnostic logging facilitates maintenance oversight.

Modern platform lifts incorporate ARDs through bespoke control logic that enables:

• Continuous power monitoring and automated self-testing protocols
• Environmental resilience across temperature and humidity variations
• Fail-safe locking/unlocking sequences to prevent entrapment
• Seamless compatibility with rising guardrails, retractable stairs, and Part-M compliance features

This fusion of mechanical reliability and automated intelligence has proven adaptable even in historically sensitive environments, as demonstrated by installations within Victorian-era woodwork at protected UK theaters.

ARD systems adhere to stringent regulations including BS 6440:2011 and BS EN 81-41, which mandate automatic completion of elevator journeys to nearest accessible floors during power disruptions. Compliance ensures all installations meet or surpass platform lift safety standards.

• Power failure response: ARD activates automatically, moving the platform to the nearest accessible floor.
• Visibility: The system remains entirely concealed within lift frameworks or control panel housings.
• Testing frequency: Maintenance includes automatic discharge/charge cycles to verify battery health and control reliability.
• Retrofit compatibility: Existing lifts can incorporate ARDs given adequate space and wiring pathways.
• Battery lifespan: Typically 3–5 years, contingent on environmental conditions and testing regularity.

Automatic Rescue Devices exemplify the sophisticated, unseen intelligence embedded within modern lift systems. Through continuous research and precision engineering, these systems maintain comprehensive operational safety—ensuring accessibility protection even during complete power failures.