EN 81-72: Firefighter Lifts

EN 81-72 sets the requirements for firefighter lifts: lifts with additional protection, controls, and signalling that allow firefighters to use them during a fire. It is a key reference for high-rise and public buildings.

What a firefighter lift requires

Requirements include a firefighter switch and dedicated control mode, protected power and electrical supply, water resistance of components in the well, two-way communication, and a protected lobby. The lift must remain operable for firefighting after building systems are affected.

Impact on modernization

Designating or upgrading a lift to EN 81-72 in an existing building can require controller changes, protected wiring, communication systems, and water-resistant components — high-value scope in high-rise modernization.

How Vertisk helps

Vertisk helps capture firefighter-lift requirements from tender specifications and map them to compliant controller, communication, and protection components.

Frequently asked questions

Is a firefighter lift the same as an evacuation lift?

No. A firefighter lift (EN 81-72) is for firefighting operations; evacuation lifts follow separate guidance for moving occupants during an emergency.