Elevators or lifts minimise human effort and connect multiple floors together. However, there are certain rules and regulations that you must follow while installing elevators. This is to ensure the safety and security of the people living in that area or residence. Lifts are quite common these days and not that of a luxury as it was a few years ago. Thus, you can find them in most of the buildings. As everyone is opting for elevators, make sure to abide by the rules and regulations.
See also: Importance of fire evacuation lifts in Mumbai’s high-rises
Overview of lift and elevator regulations in India
The design, installation, operation, and maintenance of lifts and elevators in India are primarily governed by the Indian Standards (IS), the National Building Code (NBC), and the Factories Act of 1948. These regulations aim to ensure that lifts operate safely and efficiently while also protecting the users and service personnel from any potential hazards.
Indian standards for lifts and elevators
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is responsible for formulating the standard codes that apply to lifts and elevators. The key Indian Standards (IS) related to lifts are as follows:
IS 14665: Lifts and Elevators – General Requirements
This standard outlines the general safety and operational requirements for lifts and elevators. It includes the basic specifications for the construction, materials, and performance of lifts.
IS 15785: Elevators – Electric Traction Lifts
This standard provides detailed guidelines for the design and construction of electric traction lifts, commonly used in multi-story buildings. It focuses on aspects like motor-driven elevators, control systems, and electrical connections.
IS 7175: Lifts and Escalators – Part 1: Passenger Lifts
IS 7175 lays down the specifications for passenger lifts, covering everything from load capacity to safety features, and even detailing aspects like door and cabin dimensions.
IS 1873: Elevators – Hydraulic Lifts
For hydraulic elevators, which are commonly used in low-rise buildings, IS 1873 specifies the design and performance standards, including those for fluid pressure, safety valves, and the operational efficiency of hydraulic systems.
The national building code of India (NBC)
The National Building Code (NBC) of India provides comprehensive guidelines for the construction of buildings, including the design, installation, and maintenance of lifts. The NBC is an essential reference document for architects, builders, and engineers involved in the construction of new buildings. The relevant parts of the NBC that govern lifts and elevators include:
Part 8 – Building Services: Lifts and Escalators
This section deals specifically with the installation and operation of lifts and escalators in buildings. It outlines the safety features, installation practices, and maintenance guidelines that must be adhered to in the construction and operation of these vertical transportation systems.
Some of the key provisions under NBC Part 8 include:
- Minimum dimensions: The NBC prescribes the minimum dimensions for the elevator shafts, lift cars, and doors, ensuring ease of use and accessibility.
- Structural stability: It mandates that the lift shaft and the surrounding structure be strong enough to support the weight of the lift, its components, and the passengers.
- Safety provisions: NBC outlines various safety protocols, such as emergency power backups, alarm systems, interlocks, and automatic door closing mechanisms.
Accessibility standards
In India, ensuring that lifts (elevators) are accessible to elderly individuals and persons with disabilities is governed by specific standards and guidelines aimed at promoting inclusivity and safety. Key provisions include:
1. Bureau of Indian standards (BIS) specifications
IS 15330:2003: This standard specifies additional requirements for lifts to be accessible for persons with disabilities. It emphasises features such as appropriate car dimensions, control panel accessibility, and safety mechanisms to accommodate users with varying needs.
2. Guidelines and space standards for barrier-free built environment
Developed by the Central Public Works Department (CPWD), these guidelines provide comprehensive recommendations for creating accessible environments. For lifts, they suggest:
- Car dimensions: A minimum internal floor space of 1500mm x 1500mm to accommodate wheelchairs.
- Door specifications: Doors should be 900mm wide with adjustable closing mechanisms or sensors to allow adequate entry time.
- Control panels: Positioned at 800mm to 1000mm, with buttons featuring Braille and raised letters, and in bright contrast to the background.
- Audio announcements: Lifts should have audio announcements for door operations and floor levels to assist visually impaired users.
- Visual indicators: Vision panels on lift doors at two levels—800mm and 1500mm—are provided to aid users in identifying lift status.
- Level difference: The gap between the lift car and the outside floor surface should not exceed 10mm to prevent tripping hazards.
- Signage: Clear directional signs with international symbols of accessibility should be provided to guide users to the lift.
3. National building code (NBC) of India
The NBC includes provisions to ensure accessibility in buildings. It mandates that lifts in public buildings be designed to accommodate persons with disabilities, incorporating features like auditory signals, Braille symbols, and adequate car dimensions.
4. Safety norms for existing lifts (IS 17491:2020)
This standard addresses the modernisation of older lifts to meet current safety and accessibility requirements. It highlights the need for:
- Adequate Door Width: Ensuring doors are wide enough for wheelchair access.
- Accessible Control Panels: Positioning control panels within reach of wheelchair users and including tactile indicators.
- Auditory and Visual Indicators: Providing floor and door status announcements, tactile or readable button indicators, and good lighting conditions.
5. Accessible India campaign (Sugamya bharat abhiyan):
Launched by the Government of India, this initiative aims to make public spaces, including transportation systems like lifts, accessible to persons with disabilities. It emphasises retrofitting existing infrastructure and adhering to accessibility standards in new constructions.
The Factories Act, 1948
Under the Factories Act of 1948, there are specific provisions for lifts in industrial buildings. The act ensures the safety of workers and users in factory premises, including when using lifts and elevators. Some of the important regulations under this Act include:
- Lift operation and supervision: The Act mandates that lifts in factories be operated under the supervision of a certified operator. The operator should have adequate training in emergency procedures.
- Lift maintenance: Factories must ensure that lifts are properly maintained and are in a safe working condition. A regular inspection schedule must be adhered to, and defective lifts should not be used until repaired.
- Safety guards: Factories must install safety guards and warning systems, such as emergency stop buttons, over-speed governors, and safety locks
. - Height of guard rails: Factories are required to install guardrails of specified heights to prevent workers from falling off the lift platform.
Lift and elevator safety regulations
The safety of lifts and elevators is paramount. In addition to the general design and installation codes, there are several safety standards that apply specifically to lifts and elevators. These are aimed at ensuring the safety of passengers, operators, and maintenance personnel.
Safety Features for Lifts:
- Overload Protection: Lifts must be equipped with overload protection devices to prevent them from operating when the load exceeds the rated capacity.
- Emergency Communication System: All lifts must have an emergency communication system, such as an emergency phone or intercom, to allow passengers to contact help in case of a malfunction or accident.
- Emergency Lighting: Lifts should have battery-powered emergency lighting in the cabin and shaft to ensure visibility during power failure.
- Fire Safety: Lifts in buildings with a height exceeding 15 meters or those used for public purposes must be equipped with fire safety systems, including smoke detectors and fire-resistant cables.
Regular maintenance and inspection:
Lifts and elevators should be subject to regular inspections and maintenance as per the regulations. The maintenance checklist includes:
- Checking the lift’s mechanical components (e.g., cables, motors, and safety gears).
- Inspecting the electrical system for faults.
- Ensuring that emergency communication systems and alarms are functional.
- Testing safety devices such as door locks and over-speed governors.
- Ensuring that the cabin and shaft are clean and free of debris.
Load Testing:
Before a lift is approved for use, it undergoes load testing. This involves testing the lift with a weight greater than its rated capacity to ensure that it can handle overload situations safely. After installation, regular load tests should be conducted to ensure continued safety.
Fire safety in elevators: Indian regulations and precautionary measures
Elevator fire safety in India is governed by a combination of national standards and state-specific rules designed to ensure the safety of occupants during emergencies.
National standards
- National Building Code (NBC) of India 2016, Part 4 – Fire and life safety: This section outlines fire prevention and life safety requirements concerning elevators. It mandates that elevators intended for use during fires, known as “fireman’s lifts” or “fire lifts,” must have specific features such as:
- Fire-resistant shafts and lobbies.
- Emergency power backup systems.
- Controls that enable exclusive use by firefighters during emergencies.
- Clear signage indicating elevators’ status during a fire.
- These provisions ensure that elevators can be safely used by emergency personnel during firefighting operations.
Precautionary measures
Building owners and managers should implement the following measures to enhance elevator fire safety:
- Regular maintenance: Conduct periodic inspections and maintenance of elevators to ensure all safety features are operational.
- Emergency communication systems: Equip elevators with two-way communication devices to assist trapped occupants during emergencies.
- Clear signage: Provide instructions prohibiting elevator use during fires, except for designated fire lifts.
- Training and drills: Regularly train building occupants and staff on emergency evacuation procedures, emphasising the avoidance of elevator use during fires.
Lift operator and maintenance worker safety
Lifts and elevators are also subject to rules aimed at the safety of the operators and maintenance workers. The Indian Boiler Regulations (IBR) and Factories Act lay down guidelines for the training, qualifications, and working conditions of personnel involved in the operation and maintenance of lifts.
Qualifications of Operators:
Lift operators must undergo proper training and certification to ensure they can operate the lift safely. They should be knowledgeable about:
- The basic operation of different types of lifts.
- Safety protocols in case of emergencies, such as power failures or malfunctions.
- The use of emergency communication systems.
Maintenance Staff:
Maintenance workers must also be trained in safety protocols, including the handling of electrical and mechanical components of lifts. They should follow lockout/tagout procedures when servicing lifts and wear proper safety gear.
State-specific regulations for lifts and elevators
Several states have enacted their own lift acts to address local requirements:
- Maharashtra: The Maharashtra Lifts Act, 1939, mandates licensing for lift operators, annual safety certifications, and registration of all lifts with the Public Works Department.
- Delhi: The Delhi Lift Rules, 1942, require mandatory registration with the Labor Department, quarterly maintenance checks, and certification of lift operators.
- Gujarat: The Gujarat Lifts and Escalators Act, 2000, mandates permits before installation, monthly maintenance checks, and detailed operation logs.
It’s important to note that not all states have specific lift regulations. In such cases, adherence to BIS standards is recommended to ensure safety.
Key safety features:
Regardless of regional regulations, certain safety features are universally mandated:
- Emergency communication systems: Two-way communication devices connecting lift passengers with building maintenance or emergency services.
- Automatic rescue devices (ARD): Systems that automatically move the lift to the nearest floor during power failures, preventing passenger entrapment.
- Door safety mechanisms: Sensors and mechanical devices that prevent doors from closing on passengers and ensure proper interlocking during lift operation.
Who is legally responsible for lift safety and maintenance in a residential building?
Who is legally responsible for lift safety and maintenance in a residential building?
In India, the legal responsibility for the safety and maintenance of lifts in residential buildings rests with the building owner, developer, or the Residents’ Welfare Association (RWA), depending on the building’s occupancy status.
1. During construction and pre-handover phase
The builder or developer is legally responsible for:
- Ensuring installation complies with Indian Standards such as IS 14665 (for electric traction lifts) and IS 15259 (for home lifts).
- Securing lift installation licenses from the State Electrical Inspectorate or other designated authority.
- Conducting initial load testing and obtaining a Lift Commissioning Certificate before occupancy.
- Ensuring that all safety devices such as overspeed governors, ARDs, emergency alarms, and fire safety systems are functional.
2. Post-handover to residents
Once the building is handed over, the RWA or Cooperative Housing Society becomes the entity responsible for:
- Signing Annual Maintenance Contracts (AMCs) with authorized service providers for regular lift upkeep.
- Keeping records of all service reports, inspection logs, and compliance documents as mandated under state Lift Acts (e.g., Maharashtra Lifts, Escalators and Moving Walks Act, 2017).
- Scheduling periodic inspections (quarterly, semi-annually, or annually, depending on the state rules).
- Ensuring that fire compliance checks and emergency drills are carried out when required.
3. State-specific enforcement
Various states have implemented their own lift laws:
- In Maharashtra, registration and annual inspection are mandatory, and RWAs are required to maintain a valid license.
- In Delhi, RWAs must submit quarterly maintenance records and undergo periodic inspections by the Labour Department.
- In Karnataka, the Electrical Inspectorate enforces maintenance responsibilities through regular audits and certifications.
4. Legal implications of non-compliance
Failure to adhere to lift safety regulations can result in:
- Monetary penalties, such as fines under the Bombay Lifts Act or other regional laws.
- Suspension of the lift license, rendering the equipment inoperative until compliance is restored.
- Criminal liability in cases where negligence leads to injury or death, including compensation claims under tort law or consumer protection law.
- Denial of Occupancy Certificate (OC) in under-construction or newly completed buildings that fail to meet lift safety criteria.
5. Shared responsibility in gated societies
In large housing complexes or townships, lift safety may involve multiple stakeholders:
- Facility management agencies (hired by RWAs) for day-to-day operations and inspections.
- OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) for providing spare parts and software support.
- Security and emergency teams for managing breakdowns and assisting during power cuts or evacuations.
Are lifts covered under warranty or AMC?
Yes, lifts in India typically come with an initial manufacturer’s warranty covering defects and issues arising from installation. After this period, building owners or Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) often engage in Annual Maintenance Contracts (AMCs) with certified service providers to ensure ongoing maintenance and compliance with safety standards. For instance, companies like Schindler India offer a range of maintenance contracts, from standardized all-in-one packages to customized solutions tailored to specific building requirements.
What happens if a lift accident occurs?
In the unfortunate event of a lift accident, it is critical to follow a formal process for reporting, investigation, and seeking compensation. Here’s what passengers or their families should do:
- File an FIR and inform the local lift authority: Immediately report the incident to the local police by filing a First Information Report (FIR). At the same time, notify the State Electrical Inspectorate or the designated Lift Inspector under the state’s Lift Act. They are responsible for conducting a technical investigation.
- Seek legal remedy: Affected individuals or families may approach the Consumer Court for compensation if the accident was due to poor maintenance or a manufacturing defect. Additionally, civil compensation claims can be filed under tort law for negligence.
- Compensation under Lift Acts: Some state Lift Acts (like Maharashtra or Gujarat) provide specific provisions for penalties and compensation in case of lift malfunction resulting in injury or death.
- Role of AMC and maintenance records: Ensure that the lift had an active Annual Maintenance Contract (AMC). Compliance with AMC terms and possession of inspection records strengthen claims and help establish liability—either of the builder, maintenance agency, or equipment manufacturer.
Is it legal to restrict lift usage for domestic workers or delivery persons?
In India, there is no specific national legislation that explicitly addresses the restriction of lift usage for domestic workers or delivery personnel in residential buildings. Consequently, housing societies often establish their own rules regarding lift usage. Some societies designate certain lifts for residents and others for service personnel to manage traffic flow and maintain security. For example, a housing society in Hyderabad implemented a ₹1,000 fine for housemaids and delivery personnel using passenger lifts, sparking online debate about the fairness of such policies. While these rules are intended to streamline operations, they can raise ethical concerns about discrimination and social equity.
Lift permit costs in various Indian states
Karnataka
- Application Fee: ₹25
- License Fee: ₹2,500 per lift/escalator/passenger conveyor
- Late Submission Fee: Up to ₹2,500
These fees are outlined by the Department of Electrical Inspectorate, Karnataka.
Gujarat
- License Fee: ₹500 for lift installation
- Additional Fees: ₹1,000 for escalators
Chief Electrical Inspector and Collector of Electricity Duty, Government of Gujarat
Delhi
- License Fees:
- Lifts with speed up to 1.00 meters per second (mps): ₹520
- Lifts with speed above 1.00 mps up to 1.50 mps: ₹770
- Lifts with speed above 1.50 mps: ₹1,020
The Labour Department, Government of Delhi, specifies these fees.
Uttar Pradesh
- Registration Fee: ₹5,000 per lift for both public and private installations
- Renewal: Required every five years
Director of Electrical Safety, Uttar Pradesh.
Maharashtra
License Fees:
- Lifts with speed up to 1.00 meters per second (mps): ₹520
- Lifts with speed above 1.00 mps up to 1.50 mps: ₹770
- Lifts with speed above 1.50 mps: ₹1,020
Is AMC compulsory for a lift in India?
In India, no nationwide law mandating an Annual Maintenance Contract (AMC) for lifts is highly recommended and often considered essential for ensuring equipment safety, efficiency, and longevity. The National Building Code (NBC) and various Indian Standards (IS) emphasise the importance of regular maintenance to comply with safety standards and prevent accidents. For instance, IS 14665 Part 2, Section 1 provides guidelines for installing and maintaining electric traction lifts, underscoring the need for periodic inspections and servicing.
Additionally, state-specific regulations may mandate regular inspections and maintenance to ensure compliance with local safety standards. Therefore, while an AMC is not legally compulsory everywhere in India, it is a crucial aspect of lift maintenance that ensures safety, compliance with regulations, and the efficient functioning of lifts in buildings.
How many lifts are required in a building?
There are no restrictions or specific rules for the number of lifts required in a building. However, Indian Standards (IS) 14665 Part two, Section one, and the National Building Code (NBC) of India 2016 provide the guidelines for traffic analysis calculations. It determines the capacity and response time. However, this may vary from building to building.
If a certain building is higher than 15 metre, you need to have an eight-passenger fire lift. It should have automatic doors and speed to reach the highest floor within a minute. The NBC 2016 states that you also need a stretcher lift in buildings that are higher than 30 metre. However, these requirements vary from state to state, making it necessary for you to consult an expert.
Minimum lift requirements based on building height
The National Building Code (NBC) of India and various state-specific lift acts mandate different lift provisions based on the height of a building to ensure safety and accessibility.
Buildings above 15 metres
For all residential or commercial buildings exceeding 15 metres in height, at least one fire lift is mandatory. This lift must:
- Have automatic doors
- Be connected to an emergency power supply
- Reach the top floor within one minute
- Be clearly marked and reserved for use by fire personnel during emergencies
Buildings above 30 metres
In buildings taller than 30 metres, a stretcher lift is required. It should:
- Have minimum internal dimensions of 1100mm × 2100mm
- Be able to accommodate a stretcher along with medical personnel
- Remain operational during power outages with emergency backup
Buildings below 15 metres
Passenger lifts are not mandatory in low-rise buildings (under 15 metres). However, many state building bylaws recommend at least one lift for better accessibility in buildings with more than three floors.
State-specific deviations
Some states enforce stricter norms:
- Maharashtra: Requires fire lifts in all buildings over 24 metres
- Karnataka and Delhi: Have additional provisions for fireman lifts and rescue access depending on building use and occupancy type
These rules are essential for RWAs, builders, and developers to ensure compliance during design and occupancy certification stages. Ignoring these lift norms can result in penalties, denied occupancy certificates, or unsafe living conditions.
Do’s and don’ts for elevator installation in India
Proper installation of elevators in India is crucial for ensuring safety and compliance with national standards. Here are key do’s and don’ts to consider:
Do’s:
- Adhere to standards: Ensure that the installation complies with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) codes, such as IS 14665 for electric traction lifts and IS 15259 for home lifts.
- Obtain necessary approvals: Secure all required permissions from local authorities before commencing installation. This includes adhering to state-specific regulations and the National Building Code (NBC) guidelines.
- Engage qualified professionals: Hire certified and experienced engineers and technicians for the installation process to ensure adherence to safety protocols.
- Conduct regular inspections: Schedule periodic inspections during and after installation to identify and rectify potential issues promptly.
- Implement safety features: Incorporate essential safety components such as emergency alarms, interlocks, and overload protection systems.
Don’ts:
- Neglect maintenance planning: Avoid overlooking the importance of an Annual Maintenance Contract (AMC) to ensure the elevator’s longevity and safe operation.
- Compromise on quality: Do not use substandard materials or components, as they can lead to malfunctions and safety hazards.
- Overlook load specifications: Ensure the elevator’s load capacity aligns with its intended use; overloading can cause significant safety issues.
- Ignore user training: Failing to educate users on proper elevator usage can lead to misuse and accidents.
- Disregard accessibility needs: Ensure the elevator design accommodates individuals with disabilities, adhering to relevant accessibility standards.
Are mirrors prohibited inside the elevator?
According to Indian lift regulations, mirrors are allowed inside elevators as per IS 14665 Part 4 / Section 3 clause #5.8. However, these mirrors must be splinter-proof to prevent injury in case of breakage. This ensures passenger safety while maintaining aesthetics, especially in high-traffic areas. For detailed lift regulations in India, consult the complete guidelines provided by the Bureau of Indian Standards.
How to get a lift permit for an existing building?
You need licenses in 10 states, including Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Assam, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Delhi. Each state has different procedures, timelines, and fee structures as per their acts. The State’s Lift Act entails guidelines for getting a lift permit as well.
How to get approval to install a lift in India?
Before installing a lift in a new or existing building, it is mandatory to follow a structured approval process laid out by the state’s electrical inspectorate or designated lift authority. This ensures safety compliance and legal operation. The typical steps involved are:
- Site plan submission: The builder, developer, or Residents’ Welfare Association (RWA) must submit the building’s layout plan, including the proposed lift location, to the state’s electrical inspectorate for preliminary assessment.
- Approval of lift layout drawing: A certified lift manufacturer or contractor prepares detailed lift layout drawings. These must adhere to Indian Standards (IS 14665, IS 15259) and are submitted for technical approval.
- Procurement of lift license: Once the layout is approved, the applicant must apply for a lift license by submitting forms, manufacturer details, and safety documents. States like Maharashtra, Delhi, Karnataka, and Gujarat require this step before installation begins.
- Load testing and safety certification: After installation, the lift undergoes statutory safety checks and load testing. Inspectors verify components like door locks, overspeed governors, emergency brakes, intercom systems, and fire compliance features.
- Commissioning and final inspection: Upon successful testing, a final inspection is conducted. If all parameters meet the required norms, a lift commissioning certificate is issued, allowing lawful operation.
How much is the penalty for breaching lift regulations?
When it comes to violating lift regulations, the electrical inspectors and assistant electrical inspectors are obliged to take action. The penalty clause of the Bombay Lifts Act 1939 imposes a Rs 500 fine in case of any breach of the rules. It also imposes a fine of Rs 50 for each day till the breachment continues.
In Delhi NCR, the inspector is responsible for ensuring adherence to rules as per Delhi Lift Rules, 1942. The inspector also issues licenses, No Objection Certificates (NOCs) and even notices to defaulters.
If a building has a height of more than 13 metre, it must have a lift. The lift should ensure the capacity of a maximum of 6 people. Using IS-compliant lifts for safety purposes is also recommended if your state’s lift act is not defined. When it comes to home lifts, IS 14665 and IS 15259 are recommended. According to IS 15259:2002 Clause 5, a home elevator should have a capacity of at least 204 kg, which is three people and should not exceed 272 kg.
Housing.com POV
The regulations governing lifts and elevators in India are crucial for ensuring the safety of users, operators, and maintenance personnel. With standards set by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), the National Building Code (NBC), and the Factories Act, along with state-specific laws, these rules ensure lifts are designed, installed, and maintained to meet strict safety requirements. Regular inspections, maintenance, and adherence to safety protocols are essential to keeping lifts in safe working condition and minimizing risks. As urbanization increases, these regulations will continue to evolve, maintaining high standards of safety and efficiency.
FAQs
Is it necessary to have a lift in every building?
There are no guidelines regarding this across India. Therefore, it is better to take a glance at the state’s rules for accurate information.
What is the lifespan of a lift?
With proper maintenance, a lift can have a lifespan of about 20 to 25 years.
What to do if an elevator breaks down?
You should immediately call the helpline number in order to connect with elevator repair services so that they can fix it as soon as possible.
What is the area required for a lift?
You should have at least 20 to 25 sqft of space to install a residential lift.
What is the capacity of an elevator?
The average capacity of an elevator is from 2100 lbs. to 5000 lbs.
What is a cheaper alternative to an elevator?
You can install stairlifts and platform elevators if you have budget constraints.
What are the fire safety regulations for lifts in India?
The fire safety regulations for lifts in India require them to be located in a fire-resistant shaft enclosure, equipped with a smoke detector, fire alarm system, separate power supply and control system, ventilation system, fire-rated landing doors, fireman switch, and fire-rated escape hatch on the roof.
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