Code Of Practice On The Design And Construction Of Lifts And Escalators -2021 Edition- Pdf

The official Code of Practice on the Design and Construction of Lifts and Escalators (2021 Edition) was issued by the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. This edition was gazetted on December 31, 2021, and officially came into effect on October 1, 2022. Key Updates in the 2021 Edition

International Alignment: The majority of updates are in Section E Part 4, which now adopts the international standard EN115-1:2017 for escalators, with specific adjustments for the local Hong Kong environment.

Safety Requirements: It sets out the technical standards, methods, and safety rules for the design, construction, and installation of lifts and escalators to ensure compliance with the Lifts and Escalators Ordinance (Cap. 618).

Effective Dates: This 2021 edition replaced the previous 2019 edition, which ceased to be effective as of October 1, 2022. Accessing the Document

While the full PDF is primarily available for purchase through the Publications Sales Unit of the Information Services Department, relevant summaries and related circulars can be found on the EMSD Code of Practice page. For other specific codes issued in 2021:

Code of Practice for Lift Works and Escalator Works (2021 Edition): Provides guidance on maintenance, repair, and examination procedures.

Code of Practice on the Design and Construction of Builders' Lifts (2021 Edition): Focuses on lifts used for carrying builders and materials at construction sites. EMSD : Code of Practice (805)

The Code of Practice on the Design and Construction of Lifts and Escalators (2021 Edition), published by the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD), officially took effect on October 1, 2022, replacing the 2019 edition. It provides comprehensive safety standards, technical specifications for installation, and procedures under the Lifts and Escalators Ordinance (Cap. 618). The full text is available through the EMSD website. EMSD : Code of Practice (805)

Code of Practice on the Design and Construction of Lifts and Escalators (2021 Edition)

is the primary technical standard in Hong Kong for the safety, installation, and engineering of vertical transportation systems. Issued by the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD)

, it replaced the 2019 edition and became fully effective on October 1, 2022 機電工程署 Key Technical Updates in the 2021 Edition

The 2021 update harmonizes local requirements with modern international standards, specifically focusing on enhanced passenger and worker safety. CIBSE Hong Kong Region Escalator Safety Standards : The most significant amendments are in Section E Part 4 , which now adopts the latest international standard EN115-1:2017 Drive Chain Requirements

: For long escalators (vertical rise >15m), all drive chains must be replaced at intervals not exceeding unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer. Brake Testing

: Regular brake testing is now mandated at intervals not exceeding five years Modernization Focus

: The code supports the use of advanced safety components like unintended car movement protection, ascending car overspeed protection, and double braking systems. Standard Design Specifications The official Code of Practice on the Design

The code sets out rigorous physical and mechanical requirements for all new installations: Standard Requirement Lift Passenger Weight Each passenger is calculated at a standard weight of Lift Interior Height Clear height inside the lift cage must be at least Escalator Speed 0.5 to 0.65 m/s (up to 1.0 m/s for deep systems like subways). Escalator Inclination Standard angle of (35° allowed for rises <6m at lower speeds). Threshold Clearance Max horizontal distance between lift cage and landing is Regulatory Context Compliance with this code is mandatory under the Lifts and Escalators Ordinance (Cap. 618) Target Audience

: It is designed for Registered Lift/Escalator Contractors, Engineers, and Authorized Persons. Enforcement

: The EMSD conducts surveillance checks to ensure maintenance work aligns with these design standards. Related Documents

: For day-to-day operations and maintenance tasks, trade practitioners should refer to the

Code of Practice for Lift Works and Escalator Works (2021 Edition)

The full official document is available for purchase from the Publications Sales Unit of the Information Services Department. 機電工程署 for older lifts or the technical specifications for a particular type of installation? Code of Practice (805) - EMSD

Code of Practice on the Design and Construction of Lifts and Escalators (2021 Edition) , issued by the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) in Hong Kong, became effective on October 1, 2022 . This edition

modernizes technical requirements to align with the latest international safety standards, specifically integrating EN 115-1:2017 for escalators Overview of Key Updates

The 2021 edition focuses on enhancing accessibility, passenger safety, and operational efficiency through several major modifications: Adoption of EN 115-1:2017 : A majority of the updates are located in Section E Part 4

, which now reflects the latest European standards for escalators, adjusted for local Hong Kong requirements. Enhanced Safety Measures Anti-climb Measures

: Requirements to discourage climbing over the outer edge of balustrades to prevent falls from heights greater than 15 meters. Guard Rails

: Maximum clearances of 75 mm between balustrades and adjacent walls to prevent children from falling into voids. Comb Depth

: Specific requirements for the mesh depth of combs into the grooves of escalator treads (at least 4 mm) to reduce trapping hazards. Accessibility and Comfort

: New design considerations aim to facilitate greater independence for the elderly, persons with disabilities, and families with young children. Buildings Department Structure of the Code Mandatory proof load and dynamic tests; emergency-stop and

The document is organized into six primary sections to provide comprehensive guidance for trade practitioners: : General Introduction and scope of application.

: References to related publications and international standards. : Definitions and interpretations of technical terms. : Symbols and abbreviations. : Detailed specifications for different equipment types: : Electric lifts suspended by ropes or chains. : Hydraulic lifts.

: Service lifts (where the car is not accessible to persons). : Escalators and public service escalators. : Specific requirements for Fireman's Lifts

, including dedicated power supplies and specialized operation modes. Implementation Details Effective Date : Mandatory for new installations gazetted after October 1, 2022 Availability : The full text can be purchased through the Publications Sales Unit

of the Information Services Department or viewed at the EMSD General Legislation Division. specific technical amendments for electric lifts or more information on the maintenance and works code requirements? EMSD : Code of Practice (805)

Code of Practice on the Design and Construction of Lifts and Escalators (2021 Edition) , commonly referred to as the Design Code , is a critical regulatory document published by the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) of the Hong Kong Government. Effective from October 1, 2022

, this edition succeeds the 2019 version to incorporate the latest international safety standards and technological advancements in vertical transportation. 機電工程署 Purpose and Legal Framework The Design Code is issued under the authority of the Lifts and Escalators Ordinance (Cap. 618)

. Its primary objective is to define the technical details, methods, and safety rules required to protect persons and objects from accidents associated with the installation and operation of these systems. While it serves as a technical manual for manufacturers and contractors, compliance is also a statutory duty for "Responsible Persons" (RPs), such as building owners and property management companies. CIBSE Hong Kong Region Key Enhancements in the 2021 Edition

The 2021 edition focuses on harmonizing local requirements with EN standards

(European Standards), which are globally recognized benchmarks for engineering excellence. Notable advancements include: CIBSE Hong Kong Region Improved Accessibility:

Enhanced "barrier-free" design requirements ensure that new installations are more usable for persons with disabilities, the elderly, and people with physical limitations like pregnant women. Operational Safety:

The code mandates stricter safeguards for both passengers and maintenance workers. For instance, it specifies precise horizontal distances between lift cage thresholds and landing thresholds (not more than 50mm) to prevent tripping during loading. Escalator Safety:

Following significant public incidents, the 2021 framework further tightens requirements for drive chains and braking systems. All drive chains in escalators with a vertical rise greater than 15 meters must now be replaced at intervals not exceeding six years. Emergency Devices:

Failure of emergency devices—including alarms, lighting, and ventilation—must be attended to by contractors within 4 hours, reflecting the code’s emphasis on rapid response and passenger comfort. Buildings Department Design and Construction Standards withdrawn | Official online

The Code outlines rigorous physical specifications for equipment to ensure structural integrity: Lift Cages:

Walls must extend from floor to roof and be capable of withstanding specific thrusts (e.g., 30kg distributed over 500mm²) without permanent deformation. Vision Panels:

For safety and transparency, solid lift cage gates must include eye-level vision panels made of shatter-resistant material. Security Mechanisms:

It is impossible to start or run a lift cage unless all gates are both closed and mechanically/electrically locked. Impact on the Industry

By aligning with the latest international standards, the 2021 Design Code facilitates the supply of compatible components from global manufacturers, fostering competition and efficiency in the Hong Kong market. It works alongside the Code of Practice for Lift Works and Escalator Works Works Code

), which governs the actual maintenance and repair activities. 機電工程署 for high-speed lifts or details on modernization grants for older buildings? EMSD : Code of Practice (805)

Testing, commissioning and maintenance highlights

Mandatory proof load and dynamic tests; emergency-stop and overspeed governor tests.
Verification of interlocks (doors, pit switches), leveling accuracy, door reopening, and landing release.
Record and archive test certificates, FAT reports, maintenance schedules and spare-parts lists.
Establish preventive maintenance regimes per manufacturer recommendations and Code periodic examination intervals.

5. Implications for the Industry

The transition to the 2021 Code poses both challenges and opportunities for stakeholders.

For Architects and Developers: The revised spatial requirements, particularly regarding pit depth and machine room ventilation, may impact the initial structural design of buildings. Developers must engage lift consultants earlier in the design phase to avoid costly retrofits.

For Maintenance Contractors: The shift towards electronic logbooks and remote diagnostics requires a workforce upskilling. The era of purely mechanical maintenance is ending; the 2021 Code necessitates competencies in electronics and data analytics.

For Regulatory Bodies: The inclusion of software-based safety systems challenges traditional inspection methods. Authorities must now assess code compliance not just through physical inspection, but through verification of software validation documents.

6. Conclusion

The Code of Practice on the Design and Construction of Lifts and Escalators – 2021 Edition is a robust and necessary evolution of industry standards. By bridging the gap between legacy mechanical engineering and modern digital requirements, the code provides a framework that prioritizes user safety without stifling innovation.

The success of this code, however, relies on its implementation. It requires a collaborative effort between regulators, manufacturers, and building owners to interpret the performance-based requirements effectively. As vertical transportation moves towards the era of autonomous robotics and smart cities, the 2021 Code lays the foundational groundwork for a safer, more inclusive, and connected future.

Comparison: 2021 Edition vs. 2012 Edition

Mistake 2: Overlooking the "Existing Building" Concession

Clause 1.3.2 explains that the full 2021 code applies to new installations. However, for major modernization (replacing the controller, machine, or car), the entire affected system must comply. Many building owners try to keep old shaft dimensions; the code requires recalculation of safety distances.