Modernising a Paternoster

This paper describes the processes involved in modernising a fifty year old paternoster in a grade 2 listed, University building with 22 occupied floors. The contribution of the paternoster to the vertical transportation of the building is assessed. Key components of a paternoster lift are described and the operation of the device is explained. The accident history of the device is detailed and the design features to reduce risk are explained and reference is made to a recent fatality on a paternoster in the Netherlands. Unforeseen difficulties during the construction phase are discussed and the solutions adopted are demonstrated. The project is reviewed and its success is considered. The paper concludes that without a working paternoster the Arts Tower Building could not accommodate its current population.