Home elevators are rapidly emerging as some of the most in-demand modifications in both new builds and home renovations. These home mobility solutions can do it all, allowing homeowners to age in place, provide effortless convenience, and bolster return on investment for your home. In fact, home accessibility features have been shown to increase a home’s value by up to $30,000 or more in some cases!
Below we’ll explore a few common, but often overlooked facts about elevator safety. Read along with us here at RAM Elevators + Lifts, as we ‘elevate’ our knowledge, together!
#1: Compliance with Safety Standard Codes
The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and Canadian Standards Association (CSA) oversee the development of both home and commercial elevators in North America. ASME 17.1 and CSA B44 standards are harmonized for international use and reviewed by committees every three years. This ensures these regulations evolve with the use of new technologies and ever-evolving best practices.
Comprehensive safety aspects cover everything from:
- Design (materials, geometry, strength, etc.)
- Electrical systems and wiring
- Maintenance standards
- Accessibility
Our RAM home elevator solutions are manufactured to the highest commercial standards. You can rest assured that you’ll get the same durability and high-performance you’d expect from a commercial elevator—that’s our promise.
#2: Weight Capacity Is Carefully Calculated For Safety
Riders should feel completely confidence, whether at an office building or at home. That’s why just like their commercial counterparts, every home elevator undergoes several rigorous tests before installation. Fully-compliant home elevator manufacturers must comply with ASME and CSA standards, both of which include strict load testing requirements.
At RAM, every elevator is tested to 225% of its rated capacity to ensure brakes and other key components perform reliably and consistently under stress.
#3: Non-Slip Flooring is a Standard Feature
Falls remain one of the most prevalent risks for those with mobility issues. Studies have found that among wheelchair and motorized scooter users, 96% of people have fallen within the last year. Our residential lifts are built with safety at the forefront, but also under your feet. The Flex-Lift is built with heavy-duty, non-slip metal flooring, so loved ones can ride with confidence indoors or out.
#4: Smart Safety Sensors with Every Ride
Safety sensors may not be the most flashy home elevator feature, but they’re essential for safeguarding riders. These sensors are built in and designed to detect movement or obstacles from around the cab. Home elevators include several essential safety sensors, like door interlocks and obstruction detection sensors. Similar to capacity testing, home elevators must have several sensors in place according to industry-standard guidelines. This includes our luxury Stratus and Crystal home elevators, along with the Flex-Lift.
#5: Comprehensive Backup Emergency Power Systems
At RAM, we believe one backup plan isn’t enough. Power outages can happen unpredictably. That’s why when power goes out, you’ll be protected with our standard emergency safeguard in place. Our three-tiered approach ensures you and your loved ones can always exit your home elevator safely, quickly, and confidently.
Our home elevators offer three tiers of backup protection, including:
- Standard emergency manual hand-crank and standby backup battery
- An optional battery capable of powering the motor downwards
- Optional battery backup capable of powering 40 full-length cycles during a power failure
Upgrade Your Peace of Mind with RAM Elevators + Lifts
At RAM Elevators + Lifts, safety isn’t a feature—it’s standard. Reach out to our friendly support team for help exploring your options, and to learn more about our top-of-the-line home elevators. We’re here to support and show you the RAM difference firsthand.