Every individual in society has the right to access public spaces independently and equally. This right is especially crucial for persons with physical disabilities. Accessibility in public buildings is a vital component of social inclusion and fundamental human rights.

In this context, standards for disabled-accessible lifts go beyond technical compliance — they represent a form of social responsibility in architectural design.

So, what defines a disabled-accessible lift, and which technical and legal criteria must be met? In this article, we examine the key accessibility regulations that must be implemented in public buildings, along with lift design requirements aligned with European standards.

What Is a Disabled-Accessible Lift? How Does It Differ from Other Lifts?

A disabled-accessible lift is designed to facilitate vertical mobility within a building for individuals with limited mobility. These systems are equipped with specific features that differ not only in appearance but also in functionality — from button configurations to cabin dimensions, auditory signals to flooring materials.

Key differences include:

• Spacious cabins: Must allow wheelchair turning space
• Braille buttons: For tactile recognition by visually impaired users
• Audible floor announcements: For auditory navigation
• Horizontal and vertical grab bars: To assist with balance
• Lowered control panels: Reachable while seated

Legal Regulations in Turkey and Europe

In Turkey, the Accessibility Regulation (in force since 7 July 2015) mandates physical accessibility in public buildings. In Europe, one of the core legislative texts is EU Directive 2019/882 – the European Accessibility Act.

Key legal requirements:

• Disabled access is mandatory in all new public buildings
• Lifts must comply with the EN 81-70 standard
• Braille button systems and audio features must be implemented

What Does the EN 81-70 Standard Require?

The EN 81-70 standard defines the accessibility criteria for lifts. It provides detailed technical requirements covering cabin dimensions, control panel layout, signalling systems, and visual/auditory support mechanisms.

Main requirements include:

• Minimum cabin size: 1100 mm x 1400 mm
• Illuminated buttons with Braille lettering
• Audible lift system with floor announcements
• High-contrast control panels

Features of Lifts Compliant with EN 81-70

• Cabins designed to accommodate wheelchair turning radius
• Automatic doors with two-way opening
• Tactile floor indicators
• Braille-labeled buttons and audible alerts
• Emergency voice communication system

How Should Accessible Lift Planning Be Approached?

The planning process should begin by considering the building’s architectural layout, user profiles, and legal obligations. Shaft space, cabin dimensions, and door openings must be planned in accordance with EN 81-70. Lighting, audio systems, and control panel placement should also comply with this standard.

In Which Buildings Are Disabled-Accessible Lifts Mandatory?

• All public buildings
• Hospitals, schools, and municipal facilities
• Private buildings open to the public with more than three floors
• Shopping centres and multi-residential buildings

Sources:
Republic of Türkiye – Ministry of Environment, Urbanisation and Climate Change, Accessibility Guide; European Accessibility Act (2019); CEN EN 81-70 Standard Document