Lift Safety in Spain

The EN 81 European regulations have been in force in Spain for new installations since March 26 1992, when some 400,000 lifts were in operation. The author reviews the main safety problems, analyzing each and commenting on some of the main causes of accidents. Although the analysis is centred on Spanish experience, many of the problems expounded probably take place in other countries. Furthermore, some gaps in the present regulations are exposed in the design aspects and in the periodic inspection system.