Understanding EN 81-72: Firefighters' Elevators for Emergency Situations

What is EN 81-72?

EN 81-72:2015 is a European Standard that specifies the design, construction, and installation requirements for firefighters' elevators. These elevators are specifically engineered to function under fire conditions, providing safe and reliable access to all floors for firefighting personnel. The standard outlines the necessary features and systems that must be incorporated into the design of these elevators to ensure they meet the stringent demands of emergency situations.

Key Provisions of EN 81-72

1. Elevator Shaft and Cabin Design
   
   • Fire-Resistant Shaft:EN 81-72 mandates that the elevator shaft must be constructed with fire-resistant materials that can withstand exposure to high temperatures for an extended period. The shaft must also be designed to prevent the spread of smoke and flames, ensuring a safe passageway for firefighters.
   
   
   • Protected Cabin:The elevator cabin itself must be constructed with materials that offer fire resistance and protection against heat and smoke. The design should include insulation to keep the cabin interior cool and safe for occupants and firefighters during a fire.
   
   
2. Water and Smoke Protection
   
   • Water-Resistant Components:Since firefighters' elevators may be exposed to water from sprinklers or fire hoses, EN 81-72 requires that all critical components, such as control panels and electrical systems, be water-resistant. This ensures that the elevator remains operational even when exposed to significant amounts of water.
   
   
   • Smoke Control Systems:The standard specifies that firefighters' elevators must be equipped with systems to prevent the ingress of smoke into the elevator shaft and cabin. This is typically achieved through the use of smoke seals and pressurization systems that keep smoke out while allowing the elevator to function normally.
   
   
3. Emergency Power Supply
   
   • Uninterrupted Operation:EN 81-72 requires that firefighters' elevators be connected to an emergency power supply, such as a generator or battery backup, to ensure continuous operation during a fire. This is crucial for maintaining elevator functionality in the event of a power outage caused by the fire.
   
   
   • Automatic Power Transfer:The standard mandates that the transfer from the main power supply to the emergency power source must occur automatically and without interruption. This ensures that the elevator remains operational throughout the emergency.
   
   
4. Control Systems and Communication
   
   • Firefighter Control Panel:EN 81-72 requires the installation of a dedicated firefighter control panel within the elevator. This panel allows firefighters to take control of the elevator, overriding normal operations to prioritize their access and use during an emergency.
   
   
   • Emergency Communication Systems:The elevator must be equipped with a reliable communication system that allows firefighters to communicate with their team and other emergency personnel. This system should function independently of the building's main communication systems, which may be compromised during a fire.
   
   
5. Access and Evacuation Features
   
   • Evacuation Mode:EN 81-72 specifies that firefighters' elevators must have an evacuation mode that can be activated in case of an emergency. This mode allows the elevator to be used for the evacuation of occupants, prioritizing their safe exit from the building.
   
   
   • Access to All Floors:The elevator must provide access to all floors, including those designated for firefighting purposes. EN 81-72 requires that the elevator doors be designed to open easily under emergency conditions, allowing quick and safe entry and exit.
   
   
6. Inspection and Maintenance Requirements
   
   • Regular Testing:To ensure ongoing compliance with EN 81-72, firefighters' elevators must undergo regular testing and maintenance. This includes testing the functionality of the fire-resistant features, water protection, emergency power systems, and communication systems.
   
   
   • Routine Inspections:The standard requires routine inspections by qualified personnel to verify that the elevator continues to meet all safety requirements. Any issues identified during these inspections must be promptly addressed to maintain the elevator's readiness for use in an emergency.
   
   

Why EN 81-72 Was Developed

The standard requires routine inspections by qualified personnel to verify that the elevator continues to meet all safety requirements. Any issues identified during these inspections must be promptly addressed to maintain the elevator's readiness for use in an emergency.

The Importance of Compliance

1. Enhancing Firefighting Capabilities
   
   • Supporting Firefighting Operations:Compliance with EN 81-72 ensures that firefighters have reliable access to all floors of a building during a fire. This is crucial for effective firefighting and rescue operations, particularly in high-rise buildings where stair access may be impractical or dangerous.
   
   
   • Reducing Response Time:Firefighters' elevators designed to meet EN 81-72 requirements can significantly reduce the time it takes for emergency personnel to reach the fire, deploy their equipment, and begin rescue operations. This can make a critical difference in saving lives and minimizing property damage.
   
   
2. Protecting Building Occupants
   
   • Facilitating Evacuation:Firefighters' elevators compliant with EN 81-72 can also be used to evacuate building occupants, particularly those who are disabled or unable to use stairs. This helps ensure that all occupants can be safely evacuated during an emergency.
   
   
   • Minimizing Risk:By providing a safe and reliable means of access for firefighters, EN 81-72-compliant elevators help minimize the risk to both emergency personnel and building occupants during a fire.
   
   
3. Legal and Regulatory Compliance
   
   • Mandatory in High-Risk Buildings:In many European countries, compliance with EN 81-72 is mandatory for high-rise buildings and other structures deemed to be at high risk of fire. Failure to comply can result in legal penalties, including fines and restrictions on building occupancy..
   
   
   • Certification and Building Approvals:To obtain necessary building approvals, firefighters' elevators must be certified as meeting EN 81-72 requirements. This certification process ensures that the elevator meets all necessary safety standards and is fit for use in an emergency.
   
   

How BRONZE LIFT Ensures Compliance with EN 81-72

At BRONZE LIFT, we are committed to designing and installing firefighters' elevators that meet the stringent requirements of EN 81-72. Our elevators are built with fire-resistant materials, reliable emergency power systems, and advanced communication features to ensure they remain operational during a fire. We work closely with building owners and designers to integrate these elevators into their fire safety plans, ensuring that they enhance the overall safety and functionality of the building. Additionally, we offer comprehensive maintenance services to keep these elevators in top condition, ready to support firefighting efforts at any time.

Conclusion

EN 81-72 is a crucial standard for ensuring that firefighters' elevators are safe, reliable, and capable of supporting emergency response efforts in high-rise and complex buildings. By understanding and complying with its provisions, building owners and managers can enhance the safety of their properties and protect the lives of both occupants and emergency personnel. Contact BRONZE LIFT today to learn more about how we can help you meet and maintain compliance with EN 81-72 in your building’s elevator systems.