Residents of high-rise residential towers may soon have a crucial safety feature added to their buildings. Stretcher elevators, which are designed to accommodate patients on stretchers or the deceased, are being advocated for as a necessary provision in residential towers. Currently, there is no official requirement mandating the installation of stretcher elevators in high-rise buildings. However, experts are highlighting the importance of these elevators to ensure the humane and respectful transportation of patients and the deceased.
A recent safety audit of a 33-story residential complex revealed a surprising absence of stretcher elevators. The lack of specific regulations regarding these elevators means that residents and authorities have few means to address this issue. The National Building Code of India (NBC) 2016 recommends larger elevator sizes to accommodate stretchers but does not make it mandatory.
The absence of stretcher elevators raises serious concerns about the difficulties faced when attempting to transport patients who require medical attention or the bodies of the deceased. Currently, in situations where the need arises, these tasks are carried out in regular passenger elevators, often in confined spaces. This can lead to inhumane and disrespectful situations, compromising cultural norms and values.
While some buildings may design one elevator as a goods or service elevator, the dimensions of these designated elevators may not be sufficient to accommodate a stretcher. The standard dimensions of a stretcher elevator cabin are 1000 mm wide by 2400 mm deep, with an elevator duct size requirement of at least 1800 mm wide by 3000 mm deep.
Comparatively, the space required for a stretcher elevator is minimal when considering the overall construction area of a high-rise building. The difference between the area required for a standard 13-passenger elevator and a stretcher elevator is just 0.64 square meters. Furthermore, the cost difference between the two elevator types is also not substantial.
However, some buildings employ shortcuts or clever approaches to save money by using elevators with larger cabins but reduced load carrying capacities. This dangerous practice can result in overcrowding and accidents. An incident in Mumbai serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with such practices. An overcrowded elevator, originally designed to accommodate a stretcher but lacking the necessary load capacity, fell, resulting in injuries.
To prevent such accidents and ensure the safety and comfort of residents, experts emphasize the need for regulatory authorities to introduce compulsory provisions for stretcher elevators through lift rules. This move would help protect residents, eliminate inhumane transportation practices, and maintain the dignity of the deceased. By prioritizing safety and respect, the installation of stretcher elevators in high-rise residential towers becomes a necessity rather than an option.
As discussions regarding this issue continue, it is crucial to consider the perspectives of architects, builders, government authorities responsible for building approvals, elevator inspection authorities, and most importantly, the end-users. By implementing mandatory regulations for stretcher elevators, the authorities can address an important safety concern and ensure that high-rise residential towers are equipped to meet the needs of patients and the deceased with dignity and respect.
