Whether you live in a large block of flats, work in a towering office building or just have a general hatred for stairs, there’s just nothing better than the sight of a top-quality lift. Offering a convenient way to move between floors and saving your legs from any strains, a lift is an absolute-must for any large commercial or residential properties.
Despite their importance to our everyday lives, it’s fair to say that many of us pay little attention to lifts on the whole. A lot of us will use a lift daily, but very rarely wonder about the mechanics behind it or even what each button is supposed to do.
So, we thought we’d put together the top 3 things you never knew about lifts, to give you the chance to learn more about something you use every day…
- The first thing you should know about lifts is the fact that there has only ever been one recorded incident of an lift free-falling to the ground. Some people seem to believe that lifts are held up by a single rope or bar, and so inevitably worry that it’s possible this could snap and send the lift careering to the ground.
However, the only time a lift has been sent falling to the ground was back in 1945, when a B-52 bomber crashed into the Empire State Building. So, if you’re always fretting about this happening while you’re in a lift, you need to remember that there’s nothing to worry about!
- Have you ever found yourself in the lift at your office, only to see that really annoying co-worker rushing to get in with you? This may lead to some frantic pushing of the ‘close door’ button, despite the fact that this button doesn’t actually do anything.
The button is there for maintenance purposes, and is kept accessible to the public so as to provide a certain sense of control. But the next time you see that co-worker rushing to join you, we’re afraid you’ll need a bit of luck for the doors to close in time.
- Finally, despite your fears of cables snapping or doors breaking down, you need to know that elevators are much safer than both elevators and cars. Only 26 people die on average every year in an elevator, whereas that same number can be reached in a matter of hours in a car. There are also 3 times as many accidents on escalators! So the next time you feel anxious about that lift ride, just think about how often you’re willing to get into a car!
If you’re looking for the best lift maintenance services around, then look no further than Sheridan Lifts! Contact our team today, and we’ll be happy to discuss your requirements!