An elevator designed and constructed specifically for the transport of persons, complying with EN 81-20 and carrying a rated load of 320–2,500 kg at speeds from 0.15 to 20 m/s.
Full Definition
The passenger elevator is the most common elevator type and the primary subject of EN 81-20 (Safety rules for the construction and installation of lifts). Design parameters are determined by building type, occupancy, and traffic analysis. Rated load ranges from 320 kg (small residential) to 2,500 kg (hospital) with corresponding car areas defined in EN 81-20 Table 1 to limit passenger density. Rated speed: residential 0.63–1.0 m/s, commercial office 1.0–2.5 m/s, high-rise 3–20 m/s. Car interior dimensions must meet EN 81-70 accessibility requirements (minimum car floor area 1.1 m × 1.4 m, clear height 2.0 m, handrail on three sides) for accessible elevators. The car structure must withstand a concentrated load of 2,500 N on 0.01 m² applied anywhere on the floor without permanent deformation. A two-way communication device (intercommunication) connected to a permanently attended post is mandatory per EN 81-20. Lighting, ventilation (minimum 100 cm² of ventilation area or mechanical ventilation to 0.1 m³/s), emergency lighting, and overload indication are standard requirements.
