Contractors and users responsible for lift maintenance
The Star Online, 1 August 2013
ALTHOUGH proper maintenance is important in ensuring that lifts are fully operational, civic consciousness and general awareness play an equally vital role, experts say.
Malaysian Lift and Escalator Association (Malea) president Franky Ho Kai Fatt said both lift contractors and users must be aware of their roles and responsibilities.
“It is the lift contractors’ responsibility to ensure that the lift meets all safety standards including regular maintenance.”
Lift contractors, he added, were required by the Factory and Machinery Act 1967 to conduct maintenance on lifts at least once a month.
“After 15 months, the Occupational Safety and Health Department (DOSH) will inspect the lifts to renew their Certificate of Fitness (CF),” said Ho, adding that the average lifespan of a lift was 12 to 20 years depending on usage.
“Vandalism is one of the major causes of lift breakdowns. For example, some users have taken to urinating in the lifts.
Sad sight: This faulty lift at PPR Air Panas is not level with the ground while some of its buttons are missing.
“Although this may seem like a harmless, albeit rude act, it can actually cause a lot of damage to its internal parts.
“The damage can be serious enough to warrant replacing the lift,” said Ho.
He added that in other countries, extreme measures have been taken to curb irresponsible acts.
“In Singapore, lifts are installed with urine sensors. If that is triggered, it will activate the lift’s jamming mechanism.
“Only the Town Council will be able to unlock it and they usually bring the police with them,’’ Ho said.
He added that it cost about RM300 to RM400 a month to maintain a lift.
Meanwhile, DOSH Kuala Lumpur director Abdul Kahar Husain said lift breakdowns usually involved moving parts such as the door rollers and wear-and-tear of the suspension wire rope.
“Heavy usage and irregular maintenance are the common causes of lift breakdowns.
“Tenants who do not pay their maintenance fees may affect the scheduled maintenance of lifts,” he said.
DOSH is responsible for enforcing regulations, approving safety as well as inspecting lifts in the country. The department can seal a lift if it is found to be unsafe.
“The building owner is responsible for engaging a competent firm to install, alter, and maintain the lifts.
“The cost of repairs will also be borne by the building owner,” said Abdul Kahar.
He added that everyone must play a role in educating the public on the proper use of lifts.
“We need to inculcate a responsible attitude among the public that lifts are common facilities that should be looked after,’’ he said.
