Limited-Use, Limited-Application Elevators in Existing Buildings

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This is a significant change for the 2024 IEBC.

306.7.8 Limited-use/limited-application elevators.​

Limited-use/limited-application elevators installed in accordance with ASME A17.1 shall be permitted as a component of an accessible route.


Here is a breakdown:

Limited-use/limited-application (LULA) elevators are a type of elevator designed to provide accessibility in situations where traditional elevators might not be practical or possible due to space, cost, or other constraints. They bridge the gap between standard elevators and lifts, such as stairlifts and platform lifts. Here’s a breakdown of what LULA elevators are and their key features:

Purpose and Design:​

• Accessibility: LULA elevators are intended to make buildings more accessible to people who have difficulties using stairs, thereby complying with accessibility regulations.
• Limited Use and Application: They are called "limited-use/limited-application" because they are intended for situations with less traffic and fewer operational demands than commercial elevators. For example, they might be installed in small office buildings, churches, schools, or small apartment buildings.

Installation and Compliance:​

• ASME A17.1: This is a safety standard for elevators and escalators in the United States, set by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. LULA elevators must be installed in accordance with this standard to ensure they are safe and reliable.
• Component of an Accessible Route: LULA elevators can serve as part of an accessible route within a building, allowing individuals with disabilities to move freely between floors. This makes them an important feature in ensuring buildings are compliant with accessibility laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Features and Limitations:​

• Size: They are typically smaller than commercial elevators, with restrictions on both the size of the cab and the maximum travel distance.
• Capacity: LULA elevators have a limited carrying capacity, usually enough for a wheelchair and possibly one or two standing passengers.
• Speed: They operate at a slower speed compared to standard elevators, which is suitable for their intended use in buildings with a limited number of floors.

Benefits:​

• Cost-Effective: Installing a LULA elevator can be more cost-effective than installing a full-sized commercial elevator, especially in existing buildings where space and structural limitations make traditional elevators impractical.
• Versatility: They offer a versatile solution for providing elevator access in smaller or older buildings where space and cost constraints would not allow for a standard elevator.

LULA elevators provide a practical and regulatory-compliant solution for enhancing accessibility in buildings where traditional elevators might not be feasible, making them an essential option in the design and renovation of accessible spaces.