Passenger lifts are built for speed and high footfall, moving large groups between floors at 1–2.5 m/s. Platform lifts are slower (0.1–0.15 m/s) and designed for 1–2 people or a wheelchair user. They don’t need a full lift shaft, which makes them easier to install in homes, shops, schools, and existing buildings. They’re the smarter choice when space, cost, or accessibility is the priority.

Yes. Modern platform lifts follow strict UK and European safety standards and are engineered to be reliable for everyday use. Features like interlocked doors, emergency lowering, obstruction sensors and safety edges are standard elements of a platform lift. Alliance lifts are tested, certified, and built to operate safely in both residential and commercial environments. When maintained correctly, they’re one of the safest forms of vertical access available.

Platform lifts require servicing twice a year, for high usage it could be recommended to increase this to keep everything running smoothly. If the lift is used in a public or commercial building, it also needs a LOLER inspection every six months. These checks ensure safety devices, controls, and structural components stay compliant. Regular servicing protects your investment, reduces downtime, and keeps your lift performing at its best.

Platform lifts include a range of built-in features designed to keep users safe. This typically includes constant-pressure controls, emergency communication device, interlocked doors, emergency stop buttons, overspeed protection and sensors that stop the lift if an obstruction is detected. Alliance lifts also include battery-powered emergency lowering so users can exit safely during a power cut. Everything is designed to meet or exceed UK safety standards.

We offer a variety of different lift types suitable for different applications such as – screw driven, hydraulic, traction, chain driven, scissor and more. For example a screw lift uses a rotating steel screw to raise and lower the platform, while hydraulic lifts use controlled fluid pressure. Both systems are efficient, compact, and ideal for low-rise travel, which is why they’re widely used in homes, healthcare environments, schools, and commercial buildings.

Yes. We offer a variety of different external lifts. Our platform lifts are built to handle the UK’s weather conditions throughout the year. They use corrosion-resistant materials, sealed electrics, and protective coatings to ensure reliable performance. Outdoor lifts are a strong solution for raised entrances, terrace access, or buildings with limited internal space – Visit our External Lifts page!

Yes. External platform lifts are engineered to provide safe, independent access for wheelchair users. They feature non-slip platforms, secure enclosures, simple controls, and accurate stopping levels. Whether installed at a private residence or a public building, they offer a practical, compliant alternative to ramps, especially where space is limited. Visit our External Lifts page!

Yes. Nearly all of Alliance platform lifts products are manufactured to meet the  of UK and European requirements, including DDA Compliance, Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC, Part M of the Building Regulations, BS EN 81-41, and BS 6440. Every lift is fully CE certified after installation. Alliance are also ISO9001/14001/45001 accredited as well as Safe Contractor approved and members of the Lift and Escalator Industry Association, so you can trust our team to operate to the highest health and safety standards at every stage of your project.

Costs depend on the lift type, travel height, and any building work required. Residential models typically start from several thousand pounds, with commercial or bespoke designs costing more. Because platform lifts don’t need a full lift shaft or machine room, they’re significantly more affordable to install than passenger lifts, making them a cost-effective accessibility upgrade.

Most platform lifts take 2–4 days to install, while cabin lifts can take approximately 1-2 weeks, but the full process begins well before fitting. Alliance provides a comprehensive turnkey service, including design, building works, installation, and aftercare. Our team will work closely with you to match your specifications, every lift is built to order so it fits your exact shaft size or existing structure. 

Most lifts require some building work before and after installation. You’re welcome to use your own contractor, or we can provide a full turnkey installation including all associated building and electrical works. Once installed, our engineers test every safety feature, complete a full handover, and ensure compliance for residential or commercial use. To walk through the process in detail, our sales team is always happy to help.