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Assessment of Elevator Accessibility in Multi-Storey Public Buildings

Abstract

Elevators are essential components of vertical circulation in multi-storey public buildings, particularly for people who may experience difficulty using stairs. Their accessibility influences how effectively users can move between different floors and access public services, facilities, and spaces. Inadequate elevator provision, poor positioning, limited capacity, unsuitable dimensions, or ineffective controls can create barriers for users and reduce the overall accessibility of a building. Assessing elevator accessibility is therefore important for creating inclusive and functional public buildings. This study assesses the accessibility of elevators in multi-storey public buildings and examines their suitability for diverse categories of users. It focuses on factors such as elevator location, entrance accessibility, cabin dimensions, door width, control-panel positioning, waiting areas, signage, lighting, and ease of operation. Particular attention is given to the needs of persons with mobility, visual, and other physical limitations. The study also considers the relationship between elevator accessibility and the overall circulation system of public buildings. The location of elevators within a building can significantly influence their accessibility and usability. Elevators positioned close to main entrances, reception areas, and major circulation routes can provide convenient access to upper floors. Conversely, elevators located in remote areas or behind barriers may create unnecessary travel distances and make wayfinding more difficult. Clear connections between elevators, corridors, ramps, staircases, and other circulation elements are therefore necessary to support efficient movement. The physical design of elevator systems also affects user experience and accessibility. Adequate cabin dimensions can accommodate wheelchair users and people requiring assistance, while appropriately positioned controls and accessible door mechanisms can support independent operation. Audible announcements, visual floor indicators, tactile controls, adequate lighting, and clear signage can further improve usability for people with different abilities. Sufficient waiting space around elevator entrances is also important for managing pedestrian movement and preventing congestion. The study further considers operational and maintenance factors that may affect elevator accessibility. Frequent breakdowns, prolonged waiting times, inadequate maintenance, overcrowding, and unreliable power supply can reduce the practical accessibility of elevators even when their physical design is appropriate. Public buildings with high levels of occupancy may require sufficient elevator capacity and effective management to accommodate peak demand. Accessibility should therefore be considered as a combination of physical design, operational reliability, maintenance, and user requirements. The study aims to evaluate the accessibility of elevator systems in multi-storey public buildings and identify design and management factors that influence their effectiveness. It is expected to contribute to improved understanding of how elevator location, physical characteristics, signage, circulation connections, operational reliability, and maintenance can support inclusive vertical movement. The findings can provide useful guidance for architects, building managers, facility professionals, and public authorities in developing multi-storey buildings that provide safe, convenient, and equitable access for diverse users.

Keywords: Elevator accessibility, Multi-storey buildings, Public buildings, Universal design, Vertical circulation, Accessibility design, Persons with disabilities, Mobility access, Elevator design, Wayfinding, Inclusive architecture, Building circulation, Accessible facilities, User experience.