"It Can Be Risk Assessed Out": Revisiting a Dangerous Misconception in Firefighter Lift Safety
Five years ago, we highlighted a critical issue in fire safety: the tendency to "risk assess out" secondary power supplies for firefighter lifts. Despite advancements in regulations and heightened awareness, this practice persists, posing significant risks.
Understanding the Regulatory Landscape
The phrase "it can be risk assessed out" often stems from a misinterpretation of BS 9999:2017, particularly clause 45.9, which discusses evacuation using lifts. Some believe that if a lift isn't specifically designed for evacuation, a risk assessment can negate the need for a secondary power supply. However, clause 37.2.3.3 – h (note 5) clarifies that if the power supply arrangement is used for applications beyond an evacuation lift, such as a firefighter's lift, a secondary power supply is mandatory and cannot be omitted through risk assessment1.
This requirement is further reinforced by the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, effective from January 23, 2023. Regulation 7 mandates monthly checks of lifts intended for firefighter use and other essential firefighting equipment. Any faults identified that cannot be rectified within 24 hours must be reported to the local fire and rescue authority. These regulations underscore the importance of maintaining reliable secondary power supplies to ensure the functionality of critical safety systems during emergencies.2
The Practical Solution: Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS)
While traditional methods like separate substations or standby generators have been used to provide secondary power, they can be costly and complex to implement. An often overlooked alternative is the use of a special form of Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS), the Central Safety Power Supply System (CSPSS) or often known as the Central Battery System (CBS). These systems are easier to install and maintain and are often more cost-effective.
For instance, the Borri Ingenio ECS and the Legrand Trimod MCS are CSPSS / CBS solutions that meet the necessary standards (EN 50171) and offer features such as a 120% permanent power overload capacity, isolation transformers, and protection against battery inversion—critical for regenerative loads like lift motors. Their compact design allows for easy integration into existing plant rooms, making them a practical choice for ensuring compliance and safety.
Looking Ahead: Liftex 2025
As we prepare to exhibit at Liftex 2025, we aim to continue the conversation about the importance of secondary power supplies for firefighter lifts. We invite you to visit our stand to learn more about how our UPS solutions can help you meet regulatory requirements and enhance the safety of your buildings.
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For more information on our UPS solutions and how they can be integrated into your fire safety systems, please visit our website or contact our team directly on pwc-sales.support@legrand.com, 01246 431431
References
1 https://www.powercontrol.co.uk/news-blog/blog/it-can-be-risk-assessed-out-6-unsettling-words-relating-to-secondary-power-supplies-and-firefighters-lifts/ |”It can be risk assessed out" - 6 unsettling words relating to secondary power supplies and firefighters lifts"
2 https://fireengland.uk/quarterly-thematic-update-grenfell-tower-inquiry-phase-1/lifts "Lifts | Fire England"