Pros and Cons of Commercial Wheelchair Lifts

by | Oct 26, 2023 | Lifts

Unfortunately, while ramps are one of the most cost-effective forms of accessibility, they’re also one of the most inefficient. For every vertical inch of rise, a ramp needs about a foot of runway to get the user there. This can mean that to raise yourself 10 inches in height, you will need a 10 foot ramp. That can be incredibly inconvenient for people with limited space. RAM Elevators + Lifts provides commercial lifts to assist you in creating an inclusive atmosphere that is better for business. Keep reading to learn more.

Why Choose Accessibility?

In short, every business should be looking for ways to make their space accessible. We have safe and reliable technology to prevent mobility issues from barring anyone access to buildings. Installing something for wheelchair accessibility is key for including people with disabilities in your market. On top of being good for business, mobility tools make the upper levels of your business accessible for everyone. well integrated accessibility solutions, including VPLs and lifts increase your property’s value: reselling or renting out will be more competitive.

Lifts

Also called Vertical Platform Lifts (VPLs), RAM lifts differ from elevators in a few ways: in a lift you keep constant pressure on the button rather than a single press of the button, as is done in an elevator. Your lift can be open or closed in, depending on your preference. There are some key differences between lifts and elevators, though. Here are some pros and cons of choosing a lift for your business.

Cons:

If you need to raise yourself more than 4 feet vertically, it makes more sense to get an elevator. They are built for shorter distances, not storeys. If you are looking for something with more height, consider looking at RAM’s line of commercial accessibility solutions.

Another con is that commercial lifts do not move nearly as fast as elevators, so an elevator may be right if pace is important to you.

VPLs are limited in space. If your business works with many people in wheelchairs, a commercial lift may not be right for you. These lifts generally can only be used by a wheelchair user and companion at one time. For areas with high traffic of people with mobility needs, RAM Commercial Crystal elevators are a better option.

Pros:

Lifts are relatively easy to install. From consultation to completed installation, RAM clients can see a turnaround time of less than a week. This is especially important for those coming out of the hospital with a new disability so that they can get back to the comforts of their own home and out of the hospital.

Commercial lifts are an amazing lower-cost option. We can install them outside without worrying about the changing weather conditions affecting its usability. Lifts can remove any potential for slip-and-falls in any area on your property, even in the winter. Their non-slip metal platform and high sides prevent weather from becoming a safety concern.

Grow Your Business with RAM Elevators + Lifts

For over 30 years, RAM has been taking the vertical advantage to assist people with mobility issues regain their independence. We believe that choosing how to live your life shouldn’t mean compromise. Contact us today to schedule a consultation for a commercial lift.

The RAM Team

RAM is a proud North American manufacturer of superior elevating devices for both residential and low-rise commercial use across Canada and the United States. Founded in 1987, our vision has been to engineer impactful accessibility solutions without aesthetic compromise.

GROUNDED SIMPLICITY,
ELEVATED DESIGN

Get started with RAM today.