Lifts, which have become an integral part of comfort and safety in modern urban life, are not only engineering marvels but also highly regulated safety devices. As technology advances and user expectations increase, the design and safety requirements of lifts demand continuous updates.
This is where EN 81-20 and EN 81-50 come into play — two foundational standards that define the safety and performance criteria of modern lift systems. But what exactly are EN 81-20 and EN 81-50, and why are they so important?
In this article, we explore these two essential regulations in detail — from their technical scope to the practical challenges they present in implementation.
What Is EN 81-20 and What Does It Cover?
EN 81-20 is a European standard that sets out the safety rules for the construction and installation of passenger and goods lifts. It came into force in 2014, replacing the previous EN 81-1/2 standards. This standard clarifies the structural and safety requirements for key components such as the lift car, shaft, pit, and machine room.
The term “lift shaft dimensions EN 81-20” is frequently used in the industry because the standard redefines technical details such as minimum shaft dimensions, access routes, and safety clearances. In this respect, it plays a decisive role in lift design and planning.
What Is EN 81-50 and How Does It Differ?
EN 81-50 is a complementary standard that works in conjunction with EN 81-20. However, unlike EN 81-20, which focuses on structural and operational safety, EN 81-50 specifies the design rules, calculations, and test procedures for lift components such as the load-bearing system, machinery, and pulleys.
The question “What is EN 81-50?” typically concerns manufacturers and testing bodies, as this standard ensures the strength, durability, and compliance of components. While EN 81-20 governs on-site application, EN 81-50 is more focused on engineering calculations and validation.
Why Were EN 81-20/50 Lift Standards Introduced?
The older EN 81-1 and EN 81-2 standards gradually became inadequate in the face of increasing user diversity, accessibility requirements for disabled passengers, and rapid technological developments. With the introduction of the new standards, lift safety regulations have been modernised and made more comprehensive. The adoption of EN 81-20/50 raised safety levels for both passengers and maintenance personnel.
What Happens If EN 81-20/50 Standards Are Not Followed?
Compliance with these standards is mandatory under lift regulations. If a project does not conform, CE certification cannot be obtained — leading to legal and commercial risks. Furthermore, non-compliant systems may cause serious accidents, resulting in irreversible consequences for both user safety and brand reputation.
How Do EN 81-20/50 Standards Affect Lift Projects?
The new standards impact both architectural and engineering aspects of lift planning. In particular, changes in shaft dimensions require revisions to building layouts. However, these adjustments pave the way for safer and more accessible modern lift systems. Planning in line with the standards from the outset helps prevent costly modifications later in the project.
Common Implementation Challenges and Solutions
One of the most common issues is adapting existing buildings to the updated shaft size requirements. In such cases, compliance can be achieved through special designs, compact system solutions, or internal building renovations. In addition, training for manufacturers and installation teams is essential to minimise field application errors.
At Ametal, we use our expertise from projects across various regions to develop tailored solutions for the practical challenges posed by the EN 81-20/50 transition. Our compact cabin designs and engineering support help clients comply with the new regulations — even in restricted spaces — making the adaptation process significantly easier.