prEN 81-7

Safety rules for the construction and installation of lifts and service lifts - Part 7: Rack and pinion lifts

1.1 This standard specifies the safety rules for the construction and installation of permanently installed new rack and pinon lifts serving defined landing levels, having a car designed for the transportation of persons or persons and goods supported by rack and pinion and moving between guide rails inclined not more than 15° to the vertical.

Sicherheitsregeln für die Konstruktion und den Einbau von Aufzügen und Kleingüteraufzügen - Teil 7: Zahnstangenaufzüge

1.1 Diese Norm legt die Sicherheitsregeln für die Konstruktion und den Einbau von dauerhaft errichteten, neuen Zahnstangenaufzüge fest, die festgelegte Ebenen bedienen und einen Fahrkorb besitzen, der für den Transport von Personen oder Personen und Lasten bestimmt ist, der von Zahnstangen getragen wird, und der sich zwischen Führungen, die nicht mehr als 15° gegen die Senkrechte geneigt sind, bewegt.

Règles de sécurité pour la construction et l'installation des ascenseurs et monte-charge - Partie 7: Ascenseurs à pignon et crémaillière

1.1 La présente norme précise les règles de sécurité pour la construction et l'installation à demeure des ascenseurs à pignon et crémaillère neufs, desservant des niveaux définis, comportant une cabine aménagée en vue du transport des personnes ou des personnes et des objets, soutenue par pignon et crémaillère et se déplaçant le long de guides inclinés dont l'angle avec la verticale n'excède pas 15°.

Varnostna pravila za konstruiranje in vgradnjo dvigal (liftov) - 7. del: Dvigala z zobnikom in zobato letvijo

General Information

• Status: Not Published
• Publication Date: 24-Jul-2012
• ICS: 91.140.90 - Lifts. Escalators
• Technical Committee: CEN/TC 10 - Passenger, goods and service lifts
• Drafting Committee: CEN/TC 10/WG 1 - Lifts and service lifts
• Current Stage: 4098 - Decision to abandon - Enquiry
• Start Date: 17-Jun-1999
• Completion Date: 14-Apr-2025
• Directive: 95/16/EC - European Parliament and Council Directive 95/16/EC of 29 June 1995 on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to lifts
• Mandate: M/BC/CEN/92/3 - Standardization mandate assigned to CEN/CENELEC concerning Lifts
• Ref Project: oSIST prEN 81-7:2009 - Safety rules for the construction and installation of lifts - Part 7: Rack and pinion lifts

Overview

The prEN 81-7:2009 standard, developed by CEN, provides comprehensive safety rules for the construction and installation of rack and pinion lifts-a specialized category of lifts where the car is moved by a pinion gear meshing into a fixed rack. This European Standard targets permanently installed, new rack and pinion lifts designed for transporting persons or persons and goods. It specifically addresses lifts operating between guide rails inclined up to 15° from the vertical, with a maximum rated speed of 2 m/s.

This standard is essential for manufacturers, installers, inspectors, and maintenance personnel involved with rack and pinion lift systems, ensuring reliable safety performance throughout the life cycle of the equipment.

Key Topics

• Scope and Applicability
  Specifies safety requirements for new installations of rack and pinion lifts, excluding retrofits in constrained existing buildings and lifts with alternative drive technologies. It covers lifts for persons and goods under typical climate and operational conditions but excludes fire-specific requirements and very low-speed lifts (≤ 0.15 m/s).

• Safety Requirements and Hazard Management
  Addresses mechanical, electrical, and operational hazards unique to rack and pinion lifts including crushing, shearing, entanglement, unexpected movements, and loss of stability. It outlines protective measures for:

  • Safe access to machinery and pulley spaces
  • Guarding against mechanical and electrical risks
  • Safety components and emergency features
  • Risk assessment and management procedures aligned with EN ISO 14121-1:2007

• Machinery and Installation Guidelines
  Defines criteria for the design and installation of drive units, guide rails, and safety gears, ensuring operational stability and prevention of derailment. Special attention is given to the attachment of guards, working area lighting, communication for multi-person maintenance work, and environmental protections for machinery spaces.

• Verification and Testing
  Provides methods for safety verification, conformity testing of safety components, and procedures for initial and periodical inspections. It emphasizes required documentation and technical dossiers to support compliance and facilitate regulatory review.

• Definitions and Terminology
  Clarifies key terminology such as “machinery space,” “pulley space,” and “rack and pinion safety gear,” harmonizing terms with EN 81-1:1998 for consistent understanding across the industry.

Practical Applications

This standard is pivotal for industries and facilities deploying rack and pinion lifts in environments where conventional elevator ropes are unsuitable or impractical-for example, steep inclines, underground facilities, or outdoor installations with inclined guide rails. The implementation of prEN 81-7 helps ensure:

• Increased User Safety
  By mitigating risks of mechanical failure, falling objects, entrapment, and unintended movement, the standard safeguards users and maintenance personnel alike.

• Regulatory Compliance
  Assists businesses in meeting European safety directives (e.g., EC Directive 95/16/EC, Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC) through standardized requirements and conformity assessment.

• Enhanced Equipment Reliability
  Structured testing and maintenance protocols reduce downtime and prevent hazardous conditions due to equipment degradation.

• Ergonomic and Operational Efficiency
  Guidance on access, lighting, and communication improves working conditions for inspectors and maintenance teams.

Related Standards

• EN 81-1:1998 – Safety rules for electric lifts, provides foundational safety requirements which prEN 81-7 supplements for rack and pinion systems.
• EN ISO 12100-1 & 2:2003 – Defines machinery safety principles and technical design guidelines to minimize hazards.
• ISO 6336 Series (Parts 1-3,5) – Addresses load capacity and strength calculations for gears, integral to the design and evaluation of rack and pinion drive components.
• EC Directive 95/16/EC – Regulatory framework within which this standard supports compliance for lift safety.
• Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC – Applies to machinery including lifts, informing exclusions and safety obligations embedded in prEN 81-7.

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By adhering to prEN 81-7:2009, stakeholders can ensure the safe, reliable, and compliant operation of rack and pinion lifts, tailored for specific vertical transport needs across diverse industries and environments. This standard is a crucial component of modern lift safety strategy focused on minimizing risk while maximizing functional security.

Standards Content (Sample)

SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-junij-2009
Varnostna pravila za konstruiranje in vgradnjo dvigal (liftov) - 7. del: Dvigala z
zobnikom in zobato letvijo
Safety rules for the construction and installation of lifts - Part 7: Rack and pinion lifts
Sicherheitsregeln für die Konstruktion und den Einbau von Aufzügen - Teil 7:
Zahnstangenaufzüge
Règles de sécurité pour la construction et l'installation des ascenseurs - Partie 7:
Ascenseurs à pignon et crémaillère
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: prEN 81-7
ICS:
91.140.90 'YLJDOD7HNRþHVWRSQLFH Lifts. Escalators
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.

EUROPEAN STANDARD
DRAFT
NORME EUROPÉENNE
EUROPÄISCHE NORM
February 2009
ICS
English Version
Safety rules for the construction and installation of lifts - Part 7:
Rack and pinion lifts
Règles de sécurité pour la construction et l'installation des Sicherheitsregeln für die Konstruktion und den Einbau von
ascenseurs - Partie 7: Ascenseurs à pignon et crémaillère Aufzügen - Teil 7: Zahnstangenaufzüge
This draft European Standard is submitted to CEN members for enquiry. It has been drawn up by the Technical Committee CEN/TC 10.
If this draft becomes a European Standard, CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which
stipulate the conditions for giving this European Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration.
This draft European Standard was established by CEN in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language
made by translation under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the CEN Management Centre has the
same status as the official versions.
CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland,
France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal,
Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and United Kingdom.
Recipients of this draft are invited to submit, with their comments, notification of any relevant patent rights of which they are aware and to
provide supporting documentation.
Warning : This document is not a European Standard. It is distributed for review and comments. It is subject to change without notice and
shall not be referred to as a European Standard.
EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION
COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION
EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG
Management Centre: rue de Stassart, 36  B-1050 Brussels
© 2009 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. prEN 81-7:2009: E
worldwide for CEN national Members.

Contents Page
Foreword . 3
Introduction . 4
1 Scope . 5
2 Normative references . 5
3 Terms and definitions . 6
4 List of significant hazards . 6
5 Safety requirements and for protective measures . 9
6 Verification of safety measures and for protective measures . 25
7 Information for use . 29
Annex A (normative) List of the electric safety devices . 30
Annex C (informative) Technical dossier . 31
Annex D (normative) Examinations and test before putting into service . 33
Annex E (informative) Periodical examinations and tests, examinations and tests after an
important modification or after an accident. 34
Annex F (normative)  Safety components – Test procedures for verification of conformity . 36
Annex G (informative)  Proof of guide rails . 38
Annex M (informative)  Traction evaluation . 39
Annex ZA (informative)  Relationship between this European Standard and the Essential
Requirements of EC Directive 95/16/EC . 40

Foreword
This document (prEN 81-7:2009) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 10 “Lifts, escalators and
moving walks”, the secretariat of which is held by AFNOR.
This document is currently submitted to the CEN Enquiry.
This document has been prepared under a mandate given to CEN by the European Commission and the European
Free Trade Association, and supports essential requirements of EC Directive.
For relationship with EC Directive, see informative Annex ZA, which is an integral part of this document.
This standard covers the necessary additional precautions by replacing the relevant existing text of EN 81-1:1998
or adding new clauses as indicated.
Introduction
Clauses 0.1 - 0.3.15 in EN 81-1:1998 apply except that 0.3.10 and 0.3.15 shall read as follows:
0.3.10 With the exception of the items listed below, a mechanical device built according to good practice and the
requirements of the standard will not deteriorate to a point of creating hazard without the possibility of detection.
The following mechanical failures are considered:
a) breakage and slackening of all linkage by auxiliary ropes,
b) failure of one of the mechanical components for the electromechanical brake which take part in the application
of the braking action on the drum or disk,
c) failure of a component associated with the main drive elements and the pinion gear.
0.3.15 To ensure the correct functioning of the equipment in the machinery space(s), i.e. taking into account the
heat dissipated by the equipment, the ambient temperature in the machinery space(s) is assumed to be
maintained between + 5° C and 40° C.

0.3.16 The following clause is added:

The fixing system of guards, which have to be removed during maintenance and inspection, remains attached to
the guard or to the equipment, when the guard is removed.

0.3.17 The following clause is added:
Access ways to the working areas are adequately lit (see 0.2.5 in EN 81-1:1998).
0.3.18 The following clause is added:
Minimum passageways required by building regulations are not obstructed by the open door/trap of the lift and/or
any protection means for working areas outside of the well, where fitted according to the maintenance instructions
(see 0.2.5).
0.3.19 The following clause is added:
Where more than one person is working at the same time on a lift, an adequate means of communication between
these persons is ensured.
1 Scope
1.1 This standard specifies the safety rules for the construction and installation of permanently installed new rack
and pinion lifts with the drive unit attached to the car serving defined landing levels, having a car designed for the
transportation of persons or persons and goods supported by rack and pinion and moving between guide rails
inclined not more than 15° to the vertical. The maximum rated speed is 2 m/s.
1.2 In addition to the requirements of this standard supplementary requirements shall be considered in special
cases (potentially explosive atmosphere, extreme climate conditions, seismic conditions, transporting dangerous
goods, etc.)
1.3 This standard does not cover:
a) lifts with drives other than those stated in 1.1;
b) installation of rack and pinion lifts in existing buildings to the extent that space does not permit;
c) important modifications (see annex E) to a lift installed before this standard is brought into application, and
d) lifting appliances, such as paternosters, mine lifts, theatrical lifts, appliances with automatic caging, skips, lifts
and hoists for building and public works sites, ships hoists, platforms for exploration or drilling at sea,
construction and maintenance appliances;
°
e) installations where the inclination of the guide rails to the vertical exceeds 15 ;
f) safety during transport, installation, repairs, and dismantling of lifts;
g) lifts with rated speed ≤ 0,15 m/s.
NOTE Exclusion mentioned under g) bases on the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC
Noise and vibrations are not dealt within this standard because these are not relevant to the safe use of the lift.
However, this standard may usefully be taken as a basis.
1.4 This standard does not specify the additional requirements necessary for the use of lifts in case of fire.
2 Normative references
This European Standard incorporates by dated or undated reference, provisions from other publications. These
normative references are cited at the appropriate places in the text and the publications are listed hereafter. For
dated references, subsequent amendments to or revisions of any of these publications apply to this European
Standard only when incorporated in it by amendment or revision. For undated references the latest edition of the
publication referred to applies (including amendments).
The normative references of EN 81-1:1998 apply with the following additions:
EN 81-1:1998, Safety rules for the construction and installation of lifts - Part 1: Electric lifts.
EN ISO 12100-1:2003 Safety of machinery – Basic concepts, general principles for design – Part 1: Basic
terminology, methodology (ISO 12100-1:2003)
EN ISO 12100-2:2003 Safety of machinery – Basic concepts, general principles for design – Part 2: Technical
principles (ISO 12100-2:2003)
Existing building is a building which is used or was already used before the order for the lift was placed. A
building whose internal structure is completely renewed is considered as a new building.
ISO 6336-1:2006, Calculation of load capacity of spur and helical gears - Part 1: Basic principles, introduction and
general influence factors.
ISO 6336-2:2006, Calculation of load capacity of spur and helical gears - Part 2: Calculation of surface durability
(pitting).
ISO 6336-3:2006, Calculation of load capacity of spur and helical gears - Part 3: Calculation of tooth bending
strength.
ISO 6336-5:2003, Calculation of load capacity of spur and helical gears - Part 5: Strength and quality of materials.
3 Terms and definitions
3.1 Definitions
For the purposes of this European Standard, the applicable definitions in EN 81-1:1998 section 3 apply with the
following deviations and additions.
3.1.1
machinery (machinerie) (Triebwerk und Steuerung)
cabinet (s) for control and drive system, drive unit, main switch(es) and means for emergency operations
3.1.2
machinery space (emplacement des machines) (Antriebsbereich)
space(s) inside or outside the well where the machinery as a whole or in parts is placed
3.1.3
pulley space (emplacement de poulies) (Aufstellungsort von Seilrollen)
space(s) inside or outside of the well where pulleys are placed
3.1.4
rack and pinion lift (ascenseurs à pignon et cremaillere) (Zahnstangenaufzüge)
lift in which the movement of the car is achieved by meshing of the pinion, moving by rotation on a fixed rack
3.1.5
rack and pinion safety gear (parachute à pignon et cremaillere) (Zahnstangenfangvorrichtung)
a safety gear developing a force on the rack to provide a gradual stop of the car
3.2 Units and symbols
The requirements of EN 81-1:1998 section 4 apply.
4 List of significant hazards
This clause contains all the significant hazards, hazardous situations and events, as far as they are dealt with in
this standard, identified by risk assessment as significant for this type of machinery and which require action to
eliminate or reduce the risk. The significant hazards are based upon EN ISO 14121-1:2007. Also shown are the
subclause references to the safety requirements and/or protective measures in this standard. Before using this
standard it is important to carry out a risk assessment of lifts to check that it has the hazards identified in this
clause.
Table 1.1 – Additional hazards relating to this standard regarding the general design and
construction of lifts for persons and materials
Hazards Relevant clauses in this
standard
1 Mechanical hazards
1.1 Crushing
1.2 Shearing
1.3 Cutting or severing 5.8.4, 5.8.10, 5.10.2
1.4 Entanglement 5.8.10
1.5 Drawing-in or trapping 5.8.5, 5.10.4
1.6 Impact 5.6.3, F.8
1.7 Stabbing or puncture See 1.1 – 1.3
1.8 Friction or abrasion See 1.1 – 1.3
1.9 High pressure fluid ejection N/A
1.10 Ejection of parts N/A
1.11 Loss of stability 5.6.1
1.12 Slip, trip and fall
2 Electrical hazards
2.1 Electrical contact 5.9, 5.10
2.2 Electrostatic phenomena N/A
2.3 Thermal radiation N/A
2.4 External influences 5.9.1
3 Thermal hazards
3.1 Burns and scalds
3.2 Health-damaging effects N/A
4 Hazards generated by noise
4.1 Hearing losses
4.2 Interference with speech
5 Hazards generated by vibration
6 Hazards generated by radiation
6.1 Electrical arcs N/A
6.2 Lasers N/A
6.3 Ionising radiation sources N/A
6.4 Use of H F electromagnetic fields N/A
7 Hazards generated by materials and substances processed,
used or exhausted by machinery
7.1 Contact with or inhalation of harmful fluids, gases, mists, fumes
and dusts
7.2 Fire or explosion
7.3 Biological and microbiological N/A
8 Hazards generated by neglecting ergonomic principles in
machine design
8.1 Unhealthy postures or excessive effort 5.2.3
8.2 Inadequate consideration of human hand/arm or foot/leg anatomy
8.3 Neglected use of personal protection equipment
8.4 Inadequate area lighting 5.2.3.7, 5.9.6
8.5 Mental overload or underload, stress 5.2.4, 5.10.4
8.6 Human error
9 Hazard combinations 5.6.3, 5.10.3
10 Hazards caused by failure of energy supply, breaking down
of machinery parts and other functional disorders
10.1 Failure of energy supply 5.8.4, 5.10.4
10.2 Unexpected ejection of machine parts or fluids 5.8.10
10.3 Failure or malfunction of control system
10.4 Errors of fitting Annex D
Annex E
10.5 Overturn, unexpected loss of machine stability See 1.11
Hazards Relevant clauses in this
standard
11 Hazards caused by missing and / or incorrectly positioned
safety related measures / means
11.1 Guards See 1.1 – 1.5
11.2 Safety related (protection) devices Annex E.1
11.3 Starting and stopping devices 5.10
11.4 Safety signs and signals 7.1
11.5 Information or warning devices
11.6 Energy supply disconnecting devices
11.7 Emergency devices
11.8 Feeding/removal means of work pieces
11.9 Essential equipment and accessories for safe adjusting and/or
maintaining
11.10 Equipment evacuating gases

Table 1.2 – Additional hazards relating to this standard regarding the particular hazards involving the
mobility and/or load lifting ability of lifts for persons and materials
Hazards Relevant clauses in this
standard
Hazards due to mobility
12 Inadequate lighting of moving / working area
See 8.4
13 Hazards due to sudden movement instability etc. during
handling
14 Inadequate/non-ergonomic design of operating position See 8.2
15 Mechanical hazards See 1
16 Hazards due to lifting operations
16.1 Lack of stability See 1.11
16.2 Derailment of the cage
16.3 Loss of mechanical strength of machinery and lifting
accessories
16.4 Hazards caused by uncontrolled movement 5.5.6, 5.5.7
17 Inadequate view of trajectories of the moving parts
18 Hazards caused by lightning
19 Hazards due to loading / overloading
Table 1.3 – Additional hazards relating to this standard regarding the particular hazards involving the
lifting of persons by lifts for persons and materials
Hazards to persons lifted by the lift Relevant clauses in this
standard
20 Overloading or overcrowding of the cage
21 Unexpected movement of the cage in response to 5.2.3.3
external controls or other movements of the machine
22 Excess speed 5.5.6, 5.5.7
23 Persons falling from the cage
24 The cage falling or overturning See 1.11 and 16.2
25 Excess acceleration or braking of the cage 5.5.6, 5.5.10
26 Due to imprecise markings 7

5 Safety requirements and for protective measures
5.1 Lift well
The requirements of EN 81-1:1998 section 5 apply.
5.2 Machinery and pulley spaces
5.2.1 General provisions
Machinery and pulleys shall be located in machinery and pulley spaces. These spaces and the associated working
areas shall be accessible. Provisions shall be made to allow access to the spaces only to authorised persons
(maintenance, inspection and rescue). The spaces and the associated areas shall be suitably protected against
environmental influences to be taken into consideration and provisions made for suitable areas for
maintenance/inspection work and emergency operation. See EN 81-1:1998, clauses 0.2.2, 0.2.5 and 0.3.3.
5.2.2 Access
5.2.2.1 The access way adjacent to any door/trap giving access to machinery and pulley spaces shall be:
a) capable of being properly lit by a permanent electric light fixture(s) ;
b) easy to use in complete safety in all circumstances without necessitating entry into private premises.
5.2.2.2 A safe access for persons to machinery and pulley spaces shall be provided. For preference this
should be effected entirely by way of stairs. If it is not possible to install stairs, ladders satisfying the following
requirements shall be used:
a) the access to the machinery and pulley spaces shall not be situated more than 4 m above the level accessible
by stairs;
b) ladders shall be fastened to the access in such a way that they cannot be removed;
c) ladders exceeding 1,50 m in height shall, when in position for access, form an angle between 65° and 75° to
the horizontal and shall not be liable to slip or turn over;
d) the clear width of the ladder shall be at least 0,35 m, the depth of the steps shall not be less than 25 mm and
in the case of vertical ladders the distance between the steps and the wall behind the ladder shall not be less
than 0,15 m. The steps shall be designed for a load of 1500 N;
e) adjacent to the top end of the ladder there shall be at least one hand hold within easy reach;
f) around a ladder, within a horizontal distance of 1,50 m, the risk of falling by more than the height of the ladder
shall be prevented.
5.2.2.3 Access to machinery on the car roof or in the car.
a) A safe access for persons to machinery spaces shall be provided. For preference this should be effected by
bringing the car roof or floor in level with a landing using the device for test and emergency operation.
5.2.3 Machinery inside the well
5.2.3.1 General provisions
5.2.3.1.1 Machinery supports and working areas in inside the well shall be so constructed to withstand the loads
and forces to which they are intended to be subjected.
5.2.3.1.2 In the case of wells partially enclosed at the exterior of buildings the machinery shall be suitably
protected against the environmental influences to be taken into consideration.
5.2.3.1.3 The clear height for moving inside the well from one working area to another one shall not be less than
1,80 m.
5.2.3.2 Dimensions of working areas inside the well
5.2.3.2.1 The dimensions of working areas inside the well shall be sufficient to permit easy and safe working on
equipment.
In particular there shall be provided at least a clear height of 2 m at working areas, and:
a) a clear horizontal working area of at least 0,50 m x 0,60 m for maintenance and inspection of parts at points
where this is necessary;
b) a clear horizontal space in front of control panels and cabinets. This area is defined as follows:
1) depth, measured from the external surface of the enclosures, at least 0,70 m ;
2) width, the greater of the following values : 0,50 m or the full width of the cabinet or panel ;
5.2.3.2.2 There shall be a clear vertical distance of at least 0,30 m above unprotected rotating parts of the
machine. If the distance is less than 0,30 m guarding shall be provided according to 5.5.8.1 a).
See also 5.7.1.1 or 5.7.2.2 in EN 81-1:1998
5.2.3.3 Working areas in the car or on the car roof
5.2.3.3.1 Where maintenance/inspection work on the machinery is to be carried out from inside the car or from
the car roof and if any kind of uncontrolled or unexpected car movement resulting from maintenance/inspection can
be dangerous to persons, the following applies:
a) any dangerous movement of the car shall be prevented by a mechanical device;
b) all movement of the car shall be prevented by means of an electric safety device in conformity with 14.1.2 in
EN 81-1:1998 unless the mechanical device is in its inactive position;
c) when this device is in its active position, it shall be possible to carry out maintenance work and to leave the
working area safely.
5.2.3.3.2 The necessary devices for emergency operation and for dynamic tests (such as brake tests, safety
gear tests or buffer tests) shall be arranged so that they can be carried out from outside of the well in accordance
with 5.2.4
5.2.3.3.3 If inspection doors and/or traps are located in the walls of the car, they shall:
a) have a sufficent dimensions to carry out the required work through the door/trap;
b) be as small as possible to avoid falling into the well;
c) not open towards the outside of the car;
d) be provided with a key-operated lock, capable of being reclosed and relocked without a key;
e) be provided with an electrical safety device in conformity with 14.1.2, in EN81-1:1998, checking the locked
position;
f) be imperforate and satisfy the same requirements for mechanical strenght as the walls of the car.
5.2.3.4 Working areas outside of the well
When the machinery is in the well and is intended to be maintained/inspected from outside of the well, deviating
from 5.2.1, the working areas in accordance with 6.3.3.1 and 6.3.3.2 in EN 81-1:1998 can be provided outside of
the well. Access to this equipment shall only be possible by a door/trap in conformity with 5.2.3.5.2.
5.2.3.5 Doors and traps
5.2.3.5.1 Working areas inside the well shall be accessible through doors in the well enclosure. Doors shall be
either the landing doors or doors satisfying the following requirements. They shall:
a) have a minimum width of 0,60 m and a minimum height of 1,80 m ;
b) not open towards the inside of the well ;
c) be provided with a key-operated lock, capable of being reclosed and relocked without a key ;
d) be capable of being opened from inside the well without a key, even when locked ;
e) be provided with an electrical safety device in conformity with 14.1.2 in EN 81-1:1998, checking the closed
position ;
f) be imperforate, satisfy the same requirements for mechanical strength as the landing doors, and comply with
the regulations relevant to the fire protection for the building concerned.
5.2.3.5.2 Doors and/or traps providing access to the machinery from outside of the well shall :
a) have sufficient dimensions to carry out the required work through the door/trap ;
b) be as small as possible to avoid falling into the well ;
c) not open towards the inside of the well ;
d) be provided with a key-operated lock, capable of being re-closed and re-locked without a key ;
e) be provided with an electrical safety device in conformity with 14.1.2 in EN 81-1:1998, checking the closed
position ;
f) be imperforate, satisfy the same requirements for mechanical strength as the landing doors, and comply with
the regulations relevant to the fire protection for the building concerned.
5.2.3.6 Ventilation
The machinery spaces shall be suitably ventilated. The electric equipment of the machinery shall be protected as
far as it is reasonably practicable from dust, harmful fumes and humidity.
5.2.3.7 Lighting and socket outlets
The working areas and machinery spaces shall be provided with permanently installed electric lighting with an
intensity of at least 200 lux at floor level. The supply for this lighting shall be in conformity with 5.9.6.1.
NOTE This lighting may be part of the lighting of the well.
A switch accessible only to authorised persons and placed close to the access point(s) to working area(s), at an
appropriate height, shall control the lighting of the areas and spaces.
At least one socket outlet (5.9.6.2) shall be provided at an appropriate place for each working area.
5.2.3.8 Handling of equipment
One or more metal supports or hooks with the indication of the safe working load (7.1.3), as appropriate, are
provided in the machinery spaces, conveniently positioned to permit the hoisting of heavy equipment (see 0.2.5
and 0.3.14 of EN 81-1:1998).
5.2.4 Devices for emergency and tests operations
5.2.4.1 In the case of 5.2.3.3 the necessary devices for emergency and test operations shall be provided on a
panel(s) suitable for carrying out from outside of the well all emergency operations and any necessary dynamic
tests of the lift. The panel(s) shall be accessible to authorised persons only. This applies also to means for
maintenance where maintenance procedure(s) require(s) moving the car and the work can not be carried out safely
from the intended work areas provided inside the well.
If the emergency and test devices are not protected inside a machinery cabinet, they shall be enclosed with a
suitable cover, which:
a) does not open towards the inside of the well;
b) is provided with a key-operated lock, capable of being reclosed and relocked without a key.
5.2.4.2 The panel(s) shall provide the following:
a) emergency operation devices according to 5.8.5, together with an intercom system in conformity with 5.10.4;
b) control equipment which enables dynamic tests to be carried out (5.2.3.3.2);
c) direct observation of the lift machine or display device(s), which give indication of :
 the direction of movements of the car;
 the reaching of an unlocking zone, and
 the speed of the lift car.
5.2.4.3 The devices on the panel(s) shall be lit by a permanently installed electric lighting with an intensity of at
least 50 lux measured at the device.
A switch placed on or close to the panel shall control lighting of the panel(s).
The electrical supply for this lighting shall be in conformity with 5.9.6.1.
5.2.4.4 The panel(s) for emergency and test operations shall be installed only where a working area in
accordance with 6.3.2.1 of EN 81-1:1998 is available.
5.2.5 Construction and equipment of pulley spaces in the well
5.2.5.1 Pulleys in the well
Diverter pulleys may be installed in the headroom of the well provided that they are located outside the projection
of the car roof and that examinations and tests and maintenance operations can be carried out in complete safety
from the car roof or from outside of the well.
5.3 Landing doors
The requirements of EN 81-1:1998 section 7 apply.
5.4 Car and balancing weight
The relevant requirements of EN 81-1:1998, section 8 apply.

5.5 Suspension, compensation and uncontrolled speed protection
5.5.1 Suspension
Suspension means for the connection between the car and any balancing weight shall comply with the
requirements in 9.1.1 to 9.1.4 of EN 81-1:1998.
5.5.2 Rack and pinion system
5.5.2.1 General
Moment of inertia from the driving system shall be considered by calculation of driving system, guides, safety gear
and buffers.
The car shall be supported, raised and lowered, by means of one or more pinions, meshing with the rack. The drive
shall be by means of one or more motors.
Steps shall be taken to prevent the penetration of foreign bodies between each drive or safety gear pinion and
geared rack according to 5.5.5.
5.5.2.2 Drive pinion (s) and safety gear pinion(s)
5.5.2.2.1 All pinion (s) shall be securely fixed to their output shaft by one of the following methods:
a) key and keyway ;
b) splines or serration ;
c) machined fitted bolts to a flange forming an integral part of the shaft or pinion;
d) forging the pinion integral with the shaft.
5.5.2.2.2 The safety gear pinion(s) shall be situated lower than the drive pinion(s).
5.5.2.3 Load distribution
When there is more than one drive pinion in mesh with the rack, then either a self-adjusting means shall be
provided to effectively share the loading on each drive pinion or the drive system shall be so designed as to
accommodate all normal conditions of load distribution between the pinions.
5.5.2.4 Pinion
Each pinion shall be designed according to ISO 6336 with regard to tooth strength and pitting and shall take into
account the following requirements:
Each pinion shall possess a minimum safety factor of 2,0 against the endurance limit for tooth strength, taking into
account the maximum wear as stated in the manufacturer's instruction handbook.
Each pinion shall possess a minimum safety factor of 1.4 against the endurance limit for pitting.
The analysis shall be made with a minimum load-spectrum factor of 0,5 on rated load.
The minimum number of load cycles for a rack and pinion lift shall be based on 1,5 x 10 - intermittent duty (e.g. 10
years, 52 weeks per year, 100 hours per week, and 30 cycles per hour).
5.5.2.5 Rack(s)
5.5.2.5.1 The racks shall be securely attached and with dowels at each rack joint. Joints in the rack shall be
accurately aligned to avoid faulty meshing or damage to teeth.
5.5.2.5.2 The rack shall be made of material having properties matching those of the pinion in terms of wear and
shall be designed according to ISO 6336, with regard to tooth strength and pitting, and shall take into account the
requirements of clause 5.5.2.4.
The rack shall possess a minimum safety factor of 2,0 against the static limit for tooth strength, taking into account
the maximum wear as stated in the manufacturer´s instruction handbook.
The rack shall be calculated for buckling in accordance with applicable parts of Annex G.
Permissible stresses according to 5.6.1.
5.5.2.6 Rack/pinion(s) engagement
5.5.2.6.1 Means shall be provided to maintain the rack and all the drive and safety gear pinions in correct mesh
under every load condition. Such means shall not rely solely upon the car guide rollers or shoes.
The correct mesh shall be when the pitch circle diameter of the pinion is coincident with, or not more than 1/3 of the
module out beyond the pitch line of the rack (see figure 1a).
5.5.2.6.2 Further means shall be provided to ensure that in the event of failure of the means provided in
5.5.2.6.1, the pitch circle diameter of the pinion shall never be more than 2/3 of the module out beyond the pitch
line of the rack (see figure 1b).
5.5.2.6.3 Means shall be provided to ensure that the width of the rack is always in full lateral engagement with
pinion teeth of full form (see figure 1c).
5.5.2.6.4 Further means shall be provided to ensure that in the event of failure of the means specified in
5.5.2.6.3, not less than 90 % of the width of the rack shall be in lateral engagement with pinion teeth of full form
(see figure 1d).
Figure 1a Figure 1c
Figure 1b
Figure 1d
A Pinion
B Rack
a Outside diameter of pinion
b Pitch diameter of pinion
c Base diameter of pinion
d Pitch line of rack
e ≤ 1/3 module
f ≤ 2/3 module
g Rack width
h 90% of rack width
i Pinion teeth of full form at b
k Chamfer
Figure 1 Rack and pinion engagement

Figure 1 — Rack and pinion engagement
5.5.3 Pulley and rope diameter ratios in connection with ropes for balancing weights - Rope terminations
Where ropes are used for suspension of balancing weights, the requirements of 9.2 of EN 81-1:1998 apply except
for clause 9.2.3.2. Furthermore the requirements of 9.2.1 and 9.2.2. in EN 81-1:1998 shall read as follows:
5.5.3.1 The ratio between the pitch diameter of pulleys and the nominal diameter of the suspension ropes
shall be at least 40 regardless of the number of strands.
5.5.3.2 The safety factor of the balancing weight ropes shall be at least 8 for the rated speed ≤1.0 m/s and a
safety factor of 12 for rated speed > 1.0 m/s.
The safety factor is the ratio between the minimum breaking load, in Newton, of one rope and the maximum force,
in Newton in this rope, when the car is stationary at the lowest landing, with its rated load.
5.5.3.3 The junction between the rope and the rope termination, according to 5.5.3.4, shall be able to resist at
least 80 % of the minimum breaking load of the rope.
5.5.3.4 The ends of the ropes shall be fixed to the car, balancing weight, or suspension points of the dead
parts of reeved ropes by means of metal or resin filled sockets, self tightening wedge type sockets, heart shaped
thimbles with at least three suitable rope grips, hand spliced eyes, ferrule secured eyes, or any other system with
equivalent safety.
5.5.3.5 Pulley requirement. The grooves shall be circular with a radius not more than 7,5 % and not less than
5 % in excess of half the nominal diameter of the wire rope. The depth shall not be less than 1,5 times the nominal
diameter of the wire rope.
5.5.4 Distribution of load between the ropes and chains
The requirements of EN 81-1:1998 clause 9.5 apply.
5.5.5 Protection for pulleys and pinions
5.5.5.1 For pulleys and for drive and safety gear pinions, provisions shall be made according to table 2a
respectively 2b to avoid:
a) bodily injury
b) the ropes leaving the pulleys if slack
c) the introduction of objects between pinions and rack
Table 2
Risk according to 5.5.5.1
Location of pulleys
a b c
On the roof X X X
At the car
Under the roof X X
On the balancing weight X X
2) 1)
In the machinery space X X X
Above car X X
Headroom
Beside car
In the
well
1)
Between pit and headroom X X
pit X X X
At the overspeed governor and its 1)
X X
tensioning pulley
X risk must be taken into account
1)
required only if the ropes are entering the pulley horizontally or at any above the horizontal up to a maximum of 90°
2)
protection shall be nip guards as a minimum

Table 2b
Risk according to 5.5.5.1
Location of drive and safety gear
pinions
a b c
On the roof X X
At the car
Under the roof X X
X risk must be taken into account

5.5.5.2 The devices used shall be constructed so that the rotating parts are visible, and do not hinder
examination and maintenance operation. If they are perforated the gaps shall comply with EN 294, table 4.
5.5.6 Safety gear
5.5.6.1 General provisions
For safety gears acting on the guides the requirements of EN 81-1:1998 clause 9.8 apply. For safety gears acting
on the rack the requirements of clause 9.8 of EN 81-1:1998 apply except for 9.8.1, 9.8.2, 9.8.4, 9.8.5 and 9.8.6,
which shall read as follows.
5.5.6.1.1 The car shall be provided with a rack and pinion safety gear capable of operating in the downward
direction and capable of stopping a car carrying the rated load, at the tripping speed of the overspeed governor,
even in the event of the failure of the lift machine and the suspension means for the balancing weight. The safety
gear shall operate on the rack(s) or on the guide rails. The safety gear shall be independent of the drive machinery
except for the rack.
5.5.6.1.2 In the case envisaged in clause 5.5 of EN 81-1:1998 the balancing weight, if any, shall also be
equipped with safety gear, operating only on a downward moving balancing weight, capable of stopping it, at the
tripping speed of the overspeed governor. The balancing weight safety gear shall operate on the guide(s) or
rack(s).
5.5.6.1.3 The rack and pinion safety gear is regarded as a safety component and shall be verified in conjunction
with its overspeed governor according to the requirements in F.8.
5.5.6.2 Conditions of use for different types of safety gear
5.5.6.2.1 Car safety gear can be of the instantanious or progressive type.
5.5.6.2.2 The requirements of EN 81-1:1998 clause 9.8.2.2 apply.
5.5.6.2.3 The safety gear of the balancing weight shall be of the progressive type if the rated speed exceeds 1
m/s, otherwise the safety gear may be of the instantaneous type.
5.5.6.3 Methods of tripping
5.5.6.3.1 The safety gear of the car or balancing weight shall each be tripped by its own overspeed governor.
When the rated speed does not exceed 1 m/s, the safety gear of a balancing weight may be tripped by the failure
of the suspension gear or by a safety rope.
5.5.6.3.2 The requirements of EN 81-1:1998 clause 9.8.3.2 apply.
5.5.6.4 Retardation
For safety gear acting on the rack the average retardation in the case of free fall with rated load in the car, shall not
exceed 1,0 g .
n
For progressive safety gear acting on the guide rail(s) the average retardation in the case of free fall with rated load
in the car, shall lie between 0,2 g and 1,0 g .
n n
5.5.6.5 Release
The requirements of EN 81-1:1998 clause 9.8.5.1 apply.
5.5.6.6 Safety gear tripped by rack and pinion operated governor
The release of the safety gear acting on the rack shall only be possible by raising the car or balancing weight.
If manual reset is required, the reset shall require the intervention of a competent person.
The release and automatic reset of a safety gear acting on guide rail(s) shall only be possible by raising the car or
balancing weight.
5.5.6.7 Constructional conditions
5.5.6.7.1 Jaws or safety blocks of safety gear shall not be used as guide shoes. The safety gear pinion and
racks shall conform to 5.5.2.
NOTE The safety gear pinion can also serve as the overspeed governor pinion.
5.5.6.7.2 The requirements of EN 81-1:1998 clause 9.8.6.2 apply.
5.5.6.7.3 The requirements of EN 81-1:1998 clause 9.8.6.3 apply.
5.5.7 Overspeed governor
For overspeed governors driven by rope the requirements of EN 81-1:1998 clause 9.9 apply. For overspeed
governors driven by the rack the requirements of clause 9.9 apply except for clause 9.9.4 and 9.9.6. Furthermore
the clauses 9.9.5, 9.9.9 and 9.9.12 shall read as follows.
The requirements of EN 81-1:1998 clause 9.9.5 apply except for overspeed governors contained within a safety
gear as a single unit.
5.5.7.1 Possibility of tripping the overspeed governor
During checks or tests it shall be possible to operate the safety gear acting on the guide rail(s) at a lower speed
than that indicated in 9.9.1 of EN 81-1:1998 by tripping the overspeed governor in a safe way.
5.5.7.2 Verification of the overspeed governor
The overspeed governor is regarded as a safety component and shall be verified in conjunction with its safety gear
according to the requirements of F.8 in this standard.
5.6 Guide rails, buffers and final limit switches
5.6.1 General provisions concerning guide rails
The requirements of EN 81-1:1998 clause 10.1 applies.
5.6.2 Guiding of the car and balancing weight
The requirements of EN 81-1:1998 clause 10.2.1 applies. Moment of inertia from the driving system shall be
considered by calculation of guide rail.
The guides rails shall be made of drawn steel, or the rubbing surfaces shall be machined, if a progressive safety
gears are used regardless of speed. The guide rails where the safety gear is acting on the rack can be made of
formed metal sheet. Guide rails shall be protected against corrosion.
5.6.3 Car buffers
The requirements of EN 81-1:1998 clause 10.3 applies. Furthermore the clause 10.3.2 shall read as follows.
In addition to the requirements of clause 10.3.1 of EN 81-1:1998 rack and pinion lifts shall be provided with buffers
on car top or at the upper end of the car travel to function at the upper limit of travel.
Moment of inertia from the driving system shall be considered by calculation of car buffers.
5.6.4 Stroke of car buffers
The requirements of EN 81-1:1998 clause 10.4 apply, in both travel directions.
For top buffers on rack and pinion lifts without balancing weight, calculation with 100% of the rated speed is
permitted.
5.6.5 Final limit switches
5.6.5.1 General
The requirements of EN 81-1:1998 clause 10.5.1 applies.
5.6.5.2 Actuation of the final limit switches
5.6.5.2.1 The requirements of EN 81-1:1998 clause 10.5.2.1 apply.
5.6.5.2.2 The requirements of EN 81-1:1998 clause 10.5.2.2 apply.
5.6.5.3 Method of operation of final limit switches
5.6.5.3.1 The final limit switches shall open by an electric safety device in conformity with (14.1.2) the circuit
directly supplying the coils of the two contactors the contacts of which are in series in the circuits supplying the
motor and brake. Each of these contactors shall be capable of breaking the circuit under load. Provisions shall be
made to fulfil the requirements in 12.4.2.3.1 and 12.4.2.3.2 in EN 81-1:1998.
 In the case of variable voltage or continuously variable speed lifts, cause the rapid stopping of the machine i.e.
in the shortest time compatible with the system.
5.6.5.3.2 The requirements of EN 81-1:1998 clause 10.5.3.2 apply.
5.7 Clearances between car and wall facing the car entrance, and between car and balancing
weight
The requirements of EN 81-1:1998 section 11 apply.
5.8 Lift machine
5.8.1 General provision
The requirements of EN 81-1:1998 clause 12.1 apply.
Under intended use:
 the stopping accuracy of the car shall be ± 10 mm;
 a levelling accuracy of ± 20 mm shall be maintained.
5.8.2 Drive of the car and balancing weight
5.8.2.1 The car shall be driven by means of one or more pinions, driven by one or more motors mounted on
the car and meshing with one or more rack(s) conforming to 5.5.2.
The drive motor(s) shall be coupled to the drive pinion(s) by a positive drive system that cannot be disengaged.
The car shall during normal operation be raised and lowered under power at all times.
5.8.2.2 The requ
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