Understanding EN 81-71: Vandal-Resistant Elevators

What is EN 81-71?

EN 81-71:2018 is a European Standard that specifies requirements for the design and construction of elevators intended to resist vandalism. The standard categorizes elevators into different resistance classes based on the level of protection required, and it provides guidelines for the selection of materials, components, and design features that can withstand physical abuse. The goal of EN 81-71 is to ensure that elevators remain functional and safe, even in environments where they are subject to frequent or severe vandalism.

Key Provisions of EN 81-71

1. Vandal Resistance Classification
   
   • Resistance Classes:EN 81-71 defines three classes of vandal resistance for elevators—Class 0, Class 1, and Class 2. Class 0 provides the basic level of vandal resistance, suitable for environments with low risk, while Class 2 offers the highest level of protection for areas with significant vandalism risks. The classification helps building designers and owners choose the appropriate level of protection based on the specific environment.
   
   
   • Testing and Certification:Elevators must be tested and certified according to the requirements of the resistance class they are intended to meet. This includes testing for impact resistance, resistance to cutting or burning, and the ability to withstand repeated abuse.
   
   
2. Material Selection and Construction
   
   • Robust Materials:EN 81-71 requires the use of durable materials that can resist physical damage. This includes the use of hardened steel, shatterproof glass, and vandal-resistant coatings on surfaces that are likely to be targeted. The standard also mandates the use of tamper-proof fasteners and fittings to prevent unauthorized access to elevator components.
   
   
   • Reinforced Doors and Cabins:The standard specifies that elevator doors and cabins should be reinforced to withstand impact and prevent forced entry. This includes the use of thicker materials and additional structural supports to maintain the integrity of the elevator in the event of an attack.
   
   
3. Control Systems and Interfaces
   
   • Vandal-Resistant Control Panels:EN 81-71 requires that control panels be designed to resist vandalism. This includes using robust materials for buttons and panels, protecting the electronic components behind the panel, and designing the interface to minimize the potential for damage. For example, buttons may be recessed or covered with protective shields to prevent tampering.
   
   
   • Tamper-Proof Safety Systems:The standard mandates that safety systems, such as emergency stop buttons and alarm systems, be protected against tampering. This ensures that the elevator’s critical safety functions remain operational even if the elevator is subjected to vandalism.
   
   
4. Lighting and Surveillance
   
   • Vandal-Resistant Lighting:EN 81-71 specifies the use of shatterproof or protected lighting fixtures within the elevator cabin and the shaft. This is to ensure that the lighting remains functional, providing visibility and safety, even if an attempt is made to damage the fixtures.
   
   
   • Surveillance Integration:The standard encourages the integration of surveillance systems, such as cameras, to deter vandalism and assist in identifying perpetrators. While not mandatory, the presence of surveillance can significantly reduce the likelihood of vandalism and provide evidence in the event of an incident.
   
   
5. Maintenance and Inspection Requirements
   
   • Regular Inspections:EN 81-71 emphasizes the importance of regular inspections to ensure that vandal-resistant features remain effective. This includes checking for signs of wear or damage and promptly repairing any compromised components to maintain the elevator’s resistance to vandalism.
   
   
   • Maintenance of Vandal-Resistant Features:The standard requires that maintenance teams be trained to recognize and address issues related to vandal resistance. This includes ensuring that any replacement parts meet the same vandal-resistant specifications as the original components.
   
   

Why EN 81-71 Was Developed

EN 81-71 was developed in response to the growing need for elevators that can withstand the challenges posed by vandalism, particularly in public and semi-public spaces. Vandalism not only compromises the safety and functionality of elevators but also leads to significant maintenance costs and service disruptions. Before the introduction of EN 81-71, there were no standardized guidelines for designing vandal-resistant elevators, leading to inconsistencies in protection levels and maintenance challenges. This standard provides a comprehensive framework for ensuring that elevators are robust enough to handle the rigors of high-risk environments, thereby reducing downtime and enhancing safety.

The Importance of Compliance

1. Enhancing Safety and Durability
   
   • Preventing Service Interruptions:Compliance with EN 81-71 ensures that elevators remain operational even in the face of vandalism. By using materials and designs that resist damage, the standard reduces the likelihood of service interruptions, which can be particularly critical in high-traffic areas.
   
   
   • Protecting Users:Vandal-resistant features help protect users by ensuring that safety systems, such as emergency alarms and stop buttons, remain functional even if the elevator is targeted by vandals. This reduces the risk of injury or entrapment.
   
   
2. Reducing Maintenance Costs
   
   • Minimizing Repair Frequency:Elevators that comply with EN 81-71 are less likely to require frequent repairs due to vandalism. This reduces maintenance costs and minimizes the need for costly emergency repairs, contributing to lower overall operating expenses.
   
   
   • Extending Elevator Lifespan:By preventing significant damage, vandal-resistant elevators tend to have a longer operational lifespan. This means fewer replacements and lower long-term costs for building owners and managers.
   
   
3. Legal and Regulatory Compliance
   
   • Meeting Safety Standards:In many European countries, compliance with EN 81-71 is required for elevators installed in public or high-risk environments. Failure to comply can result in legal penalties, including fines and potential liability for accidents caused by vandalism.
   
   
   • Certification and Building Approvals:Elevators must be certified as meeting the appropriate resistance class of EN 81-71 to obtain necessary building approvals. This certification process ensures that the elevator meets all required safety and durability standards.
   
   

How BRONZE LIFT Ensures Compliance with EN 81-71

At BRONZE LIFT, we specialize in designing and installing elevators that meet the stringent requirements of EN 81-71. Our vandal-resistant elevators are constructed using the highest quality materials and are designed to withstand the most challenging environments. We work closely with our clients to assess the specific risks associated with their building and to implement the appropriate level of vandal resistance. Additionally, we offer ongoing maintenance services to ensure that all vandal-resistant features remain effective throughout the elevator’s lifespan.

Conclusion

EN 81-71 is a crucial standard for ensuring the durability and safety of elevators in environments where vandalism is a concern. By understanding and complying with its provisions, building owners and managers can protect their investments, enhance user safety, and reduce maintenance costs. Contact BRONZE LIFT today to learn more about how we can help you meet and maintain compliance with EN 81-71 in your building’s elevator systems.