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Guide
Stairlift Safety Features
Modern stairlifts are very safe, but features vary between models. Here is what should be included as standard and what is worth paying extra for.
Standard Safety Features
- Obstruction sensors stop the lift automatically if something is on the stairs.
- Seat belt — usually a simple retractable lap belt.
- Swivel seat that rotates at the top so the user steps off away from the stairs, not towards them.
- Battery backup so the lift still works in a power cut.
- Soft start and stop to avoid jolting.
- Key switch or lock to prevent unsupervised use, useful where children visit.
Features Worth Considering
A powered swivel seat helps considerably if the user has limited upper body strength. A powered footrest avoids bending down. A folding rail keeps a hallway or doorway clear at the bottom of the stairs, which matters in narrow halls and for fire escape routes.
A remote control lets the lift be called to the other end of the stairs, useful where two people share it.
Using It Safely
Keep the staircase clear, make sure the user knows how to operate the controls, and always use the belt. If the lift is shared, agree who parks it where.
Have the lift serviced on schedule. Batteries in particular degrade over time and are the most common cause of a lift failing.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Battery backup keeps the lift working. Batteries charge at the rail ends, so park the lift at a charging point when not in use.
It depends on the individual. A key switch prevents unsupervised use, and an occupational therapist can advise on suitability.
Yes, provided both can use it safely. A remote control at each end makes it more practical.
No. The seat, arms and footrest fold up, and a folding rail can keep the bottom of the stairs clear.