An overhead lift, also known as a suspension lift, is a special form of stairlift. It is used to transport a single person, usually with a wheelchair, along the staircase and consists of a guide rail that is mounted centrally above the staircase on the ceiling or on the soffit, and a suspension device to which a chair or wheelchair can be hung. There are also variants with suspended platforms that can be accessed by wheelchair. A suspension lift takes up hardly any space and can also be used on very narrow and steep stairs indoors and outdoors. It can also be guided through door openings, which means that a wheelchair user can be transported with a continuous lift system, e.g. via the entrance platform outside and via the internal staircase to the upper floors.
DIN EN 81-40 contains the safety requirements for the construction, manufacture, installation, maintenance and dismantling of electrically operated inclined stair lifts intended for use by persons with disabilities.
Source: bauwion
