The number one priority when looking for a handicap stair lift has to be safety.  The build of the handicap stair lift is paramount; it should be of the highest quality, strength and durability.
The motor has to be reliable and of sufficient power to safely transport the user. Although it is generally not recommended, people do on occasion transport additional items on the stair lift and an allowance for this should be added into the calculation when deciding on the power of the motor required.
The rail, the chair runs on a rail which is usually attached to the wall running along the staircase. The rail needs to be strong enough to take the weight of the chair plus the user and must be attached to the wall securely. The rail needs to be safe, no sharp edges and attached in such a way that the stairs are not obstructed.
The seat has to be the correct size for the user to be able to sit safely and comfortably. The user also needs to be able to get on and off the chair with the minimum of effort. Any arm rests need to meet the needs of the user.
Safety straps, the chair should be fitted with safety straps to prevent the user from slipping or falling from the chair while it is in use. They need to be designed in such a way that depending on the handicap the user is easily able to secure and release them; otherwise the user may be reluctant to use them and be in danger of falling or slipping from the chair when it is in use.
Controls have to be easy for the user. Care needs to be taken to ensure that the controls are of the correct size and or type to accommodate the needs of the user. They also have to be positioned where the user has unrestricted access to them. Ideally there would be emergency or override control facilities.
Siting of the lift, needs to be well thought through, adequate space will be needed for the user to be able get on and off the stair lift, any additional aids such as wheelchairs or walking frames need to be taken into account or assistance from another person if required.
The reliability, particularly, of the motor of a handicap stair lift is extremely important. A handicap stair lift which struggles up or down the stairs by juddering and jerking does not inspire confidence and could cause the user to fall from the seat resulting in serious injury.
If the motor isn’t reliable and breaks down making the handicap stair lift unusable it can cause great distress to a user. They could be stranded and risk serious injury by trying to use the stairs manually or by trying to free themselves from the seat actually on the stairway.
Many handicapped people live alone so the reliability and safety of their handicap stair lift is crucial.
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