In his latest article, Colin Craney examines the state of the vertical-transportation (VT) industry and argues that it’s high time for a substantial upgrade in both mindset and execution. His piece, published in Elevator World, titled “Time To Raise Our Game”, contends that the industry must go well beyond mere regulatory compliance to truly support accessibility and safety in modern society.
Craney traces the regulatory journey from the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 to the Equality Act 2010, noting that conflicting standards and inconsistent implementation have often undermined the intention behind such legislation.
As Colin says:
“A question arises in relation to the use of accessibility lifts … my experience is of some manufacturers prohibiting this form of use, whilst others happily sanction such use, with others not discriminating one way or the other or omitting to include such information in the lift instructions.”
Colin recognises the disparity in standards across the EU and the world that affects the quality of processes and the safety of users:
“Whilst much of equipment design and supply is European Union and European Economic Area-centred, … the sector is also beset by a lesser number of less diligent manufacturers and contractors, whose activities and products detract from the reputation of the sector and which place lift users at risk.”
He further asserts that the build-up of complex, interdependent lift systems demands not just technical compliance but a cultural shift within the industry from reactive to proactive
In summary, Colin assesses the industry’s track record and what’s needed for its future. He isn’t simply calling for tweaks, he is calling for a fundamental “raising of the game”. The article is a must-read for consultants, manufacturers, and facility owners who need to stay ahead in a sector where compliance isn’t enough and trust is earned.
Read more here – Click the image to read the full article
Colin Craney has 42 years of industry experience, initially in a number of field and management roles with Otis, followed by 17 years in consulting, currently for SVM Associates. Colin is a U.K. chartered engineer and a fellow of CIBSE, European engineer, chartered safety and health practitioner, accredited consultant on the HSE Occupational Safety and Health Consultants Register and a member of the Chartered Institution of Occupational Safety and Health. Colin is a barrister, having been called to the bar by the Honourable Society of the Middle Temple.
Established in 2004, SVM Associates pride ourselves on our industry expertise, persistent attention to detail, personable working style and unique approach to all aspects of building services, including; Lifts, Escalators and Facade Access, Mechanical Electrical, and Public Health and Facilities Management.
