Owners of small commercial and community buildings often need to provide access between floors but do not have the space or the budget for a full passenger elevator. The LULA elevator was created for them.
What LULA stands for
LULA means Limited Use, Limited Application. It is a category of elevator defined in the elevator safety code, sitting between a wheelchair platform lift and a standard commercial elevator. It looks and operates like a normal elevator, with automatic doors and push-button controls, but it is smaller and slower and is restricted in how far it can travel.
How it differs from a full passenger elevator
- Size. The cab is compact, sized for a wheelchair user and a companion.
- Travel. It serves low-rise buildings, typically two or three levels and up to about 25 feet.
- Speed. It moves more slowly than a commercial elevator.
- Building work. It needs a shallower pit and less overhead space, so it fits into existing buildings more easily.
- Cost. It is usually far less expensive to buy and install.
Buildings that use them
- Churches and other places of worship
- Small offices and professional practices
- Schools, libraries and town buildings
- Clubs, lodges and community centres
- Small inns and bed and breakfasts
LULA or platform lift?
A platform lift is the simplest way to cover a short rise, such as a stage or a half flight. A LULA is the better choice when people need to travel a full story or more in an enclosed cab, and when the building wants something that feels like a true elevator.
What to check first
Whether a LULA is permitted depends on the building, how it is used and local code. Talk to your architect or code official early, and involve an elevator company before plans are fixed.
Talk to us
Nationwide Lifts of New York works with building owners around Albany, Glens Falls and Poughkeepsie on accessibility projects. Call 888-323-8755 to discuss yours.