Volkslift East Africa https://volksliftea.co.ke Elevators Escalators & Moving Walkways Sat, 16 May 2020 05:46:00 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.9.3 https://volksliftea.co.ke/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/v-l-ea-logo-100x100.png Volkslift East Africa https://volksliftea.co.ke 32 32 Why Elevators are most important for Residential buildings ? https://volksliftea.co.ke/why-elevators-are-most-important-for-residential-buildings/ https://volksliftea.co.ke/why-elevators-are-most-important-for-residential-buildings/#respond Sat, 16 May 2020 05:44:26 +0000 http://volksliftea.co.ke/?p=1081 Residential Elevators can be of enormous importance in simplifying life, serving to lessen daily re-occurring movements of climbing stairs. Residential Elevators reduce cases of typical accidents such as crumbling down the stairs or in worse cases, kids slip over stair rails.  Daily life has also changed and many homeowners have approved to get a Residential […]

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Residential Elevators can be of enormous importance in simplifying life, serving to lessen daily re-occurring movements of climbing stairs. Residential Elevators reduce cases of typical accidents such as crumbling down the stairs or in worse cases, kids slip over stair rails.  Daily life has also changed and many homeowners have approved to get a Residential elevator for a number of reasons.

You should now begin buy an elevator for your home or apartment . Follow the factors:

Increases your property value

A Residential elevator acts as a fruitful investment for many, helping to growth the resale value of the home or Apartment. You’ll find that most future home or Apartment buyers today get easily attracted to homes or apartments which are accessible by elevators as many house buyers already look to upcoming accessibility of the home, as no one wants to have to move home when mobility get worse. This, therefore, is the reason why installing a Home elevator will increase the attraction and worth of your home or Apartment.

Elevators are Improves home security and safety

Safety is a first priority concern at home, especially for the elderly and the physically disabled. Residential elevators are becoming more and more of a useful addition to one’s home. The more possible risk nowadays is getting stuck in a home elevator. The impact of this problem can be minimized by associating with the right elevator and lift contractor. The right contractor is one that provides emergency home elevator service round the clock, and whose place of business is within easy driving distance from your home. You need to ensure that your elevator contractor has professionals who know their job and can provide immediate service. Make sure that your home elevator has a working phone, and a qualified installer that truly understands what emergency service is.

 Expectation from Residential Elevators

Although elevators are one of the not dangerous forms of transportation available, simple procedures can help ensure people safety.

  • Space-saving designs
  • Reduce cases of Typical Accidents
  • Resale Value of the Home
  • People Safety and Security
  • Low power consumption
  • Convenience
  • Comfortably

Elevators are Improves home security and safety

Safety is a first priority concern at home, especially for the elderly and the physically disabled. Residential elevators are becoming more and more of a useful addition to one’s home. The more possible risk nowadays is getting stuck in a home elevator. The impact of this problem can be minimized by associating with the right elevator and lift contractor. The right contractor is one that provides emergency home elevator service round the clock, and whose place of business is within easy driving distance from your home. You need to ensure that your elevator contractor has professionals who know their job and can provide immediate service. Make sure that your home elevator has a working phone, and a qualified installer that truly understands what emergency service is.

VOLKSLIFT EAST AFRICA works with the most Leading manufacturers, offering high-quality products and services. Call us our Professionals at 0716 757 222 or Send an email : info@volksliftea.co.ke

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Cleaning and Disinfecting Elevators. https://volksliftea.co.ke/cleaning-and-disinfecting-elevators/ https://volksliftea.co.ke/cleaning-and-disinfecting-elevators/#respond Sat, 16 May 2020 04:53:23 +0000 http://volksliftea.co.ke/?p=1069 CLEANING VS. DISINFECTING First, it’s important to clarify cleaning vs. disinfecting. Here’s how the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) differentiate these processes: Cleaning requires water and either soap or detergent to remove dirt, spots and stains. Just cleaning a surface won’t kill viruses, bacteria or fungi. Instead, it can remove germs from surfaces and lower the […]

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CLEANING VS. DISINFECTING

First, it’s important to clarify cleaning vs. disinfecting. Here’s how the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) differentiate these processes:

Cleaning requires water and either soap or detergent to remove dirt, spots and stains. Just cleaning a surface won’t kill viruses, bacteria or fungi. Instead, it can remove germs from surfaces and lower the risk of spreading.

Disinfecting uses chemicals to kill germs. It won’t necessarily remove spots and impurities, but it is the best way to remove contamination. In order for this process to work, you will need to clean a surface before applying disinfecting spray. The EPA has an extensive list of registered disinfectants that are effective against viruses like COVID-19.

There’s also sanitizing, which lowers the number of germs to a safe level determined by public health standards. Sanitizing is the most common practice for surfaces that come in contact with food. This process can be done without using chemicals, like with a steam cleaner.

HOW TO DISINFECT AN ELEVATOR

Here’s a look at cleaning and disinfecting processes by the type of surface. When cleaning and disinfecting and while the elevator is drying, you may want to temporarily shut it down to avoid foot traffic.

Cleaning and Disinfecting elevators

Hard/Non-Porous Surfaces – Wall Panels, Doors, Handrails

  • Before disinfecting, use soap and water to remove dirt and grime. Use cleaning solvents per the manufacturer’s recommendation and consult your elevator service provider to be sure the products are safe to use — this is especially important for electrical areas.
  • Never pour water on any electrical areas. Instead, use a damp paper towel or cloth.
  • Use a disposable paper towel or a microfiber cloth, and an EPA-registered disinfectant. Opt for a non-abrasive, non-corrosive solution that is compatible with the surface material.

Floors

  • Sweep or vacuum the floor or carpet. Carpets can trap dust, germs and dirt, so it’s important to vacuum even if it looks clean.
  1. To deep clean a carpet, use a steam cleaner or an appropriate EPA-registered solution. Non-carpeted flooring can be disinfected with a non-abrasive, non-corrosive solution.

Soft/Porous Items –Rugs, Pads, Mats

  • Clean the items first by removing noticeable debris. You can do this by sweeping or vacuuming.
  • If possible, wash the items in the laundry on the warmest setting.
  1. If you can’t throw an item in the laundry, clean it with soap and water and a cloth. After cleaning, use an appropriate disinfecting solution.

Non-Chemical Disinfectant Options

Chemicals aren’t the only way to disinfect. Purifying and disinfecting products, like the CASPR 200, are designed specifically to kill bacteria, viruses and other germs found in elevators. These small systems are installed in the elevator cab and eliminate air pollution, including illness-causing pathogens.

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF WHILE CLEANING & DISINFECTING

The safety of you and your passengers is the most important part of the elevator cleaning and disinfecting process. Here are a few helpful tips:

  1. If necessary, shut down the elevator when you’re cleaning. This will help you avoid interruptions and unnecessary contamination.
  2. Wear disposable gloves and a gown to protect your skin and clothing.
  3. Wash your hands in between elevator cleanings.
  4. Avoid touching your face while cleaning. You don’t want chemicals or germs getting on your skin or in your eyes.

HOW OFTEN YOU SHOULD CLEAN & DISINFECT YOUR ELEVATORS

The frequency will depend on the type of building. If you have dozens of elevators located in a busy, high-traffic office building, you may want to clean and disinfect them on a daily basis. But if you have a single elevator in a small apartment building, a weekly cleaning could suffice.

Cleaning and Disinfecting Elevators

Medical facilities should obviously take a different approach. Since sick people are constantly coming in and out, elevators in high-traffic areas (like lobbies and emergency areas) should be continuously disinfected throughout the day.

Also consider the season and climate. Your elevators may need more attention during flu season or if another illness is spreading throughout the building. Remember that germs can stick around for longer than we may think. According to the World Health Organization, viruses like COVID-19 can live on surfaces for up to a few hours to several days — the exact time will depend on the type of surface. In this instance, frequent disinfecting is key to prevent the spread of the virus.

ELEVATOR CLEANING & DISINFECTING TIPS

  • Always clean surfaces before using disinfecting products.
  • Review the elevator manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning. Some surfaces could become damaged if you use the wrong solution.
  • Also check the directions on any cleaning or disinfecting solution you’re using, as some might not work to the best of their ability if used incorrectly. For example, do you know how to properly use Clorox disinfecting wipes? According to the instructions, Clorox says to “wipe surface, using enough wipes for the treated surface to remain visibly wet for four minutes. Let surface dry.”
  • It’s important to disinfect surfaces that may not be considered high-touch areas. Germs and bacteria can land anywhere in an elevator — doors, floors, wall panels, etc. To ensure that your elevator is as clean as possible, the entire elevator needs to be disinfected.
  • Don’t use sponges when cleaning or disinfecting. They can collect bacteria.
  • Never spray chemicals directly on to an elevator surface. Spray the solution on to a fresh paper towel or a clean microfiber cloth and then wipe down the surface. Spraying chemicals directly onto a surface could cause electrical damage.
  • Make sure that the products you are using haven’t expired.
  • Throw away cleaning gloves, gowns and disposable paper towels immediately after use. Wash reusable cloths right away.
  • Never shake out dirty items before cleaning them (rugs, drapes, etc.). This could spread dirt and bacteria throughout the air.
  • Consider offering alcohol-based hand sanitizer in common areas of your building to encourage healthy hand hygiene.

SOCIAL DISTANCING IN ELEVATORS

The CDC recommends practicing social distancing of at least 6 feet. But how do you socially distance yourself in an elevator?

As businesses begin to reopen, Bloomberg Law notes that buildings may need to limit the number of people allowed in an elevator, especially since the virus can linger in the air. While this will inevitably result in long lines and late workers, building owners will need to get creative. We’ll likely see freight elevators open for public use and more leniency for late workers. It’s also an opportune time to ensure that your elevators are covered by an elevator maintenance plan, as downtimes are the last thing anyone needs right now.

If you have questions about disinfecting your elevators or would like to learn more about the CASPR 200 disinfecting system, contact our team today.

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Effects of Corona Virus to the Economy https://volksliftea.co.ke/effects-of-corona-virus-to-the-economy/ https://volksliftea.co.ke/effects-of-corona-virus-to-the-economy/#respond Thu, 14 May 2020 04:05:39 +0000 http://volksliftea.co.ke/?p=1066 The coronavirus is spreading quickly around the globe. Governments, businesses and families respond to the pandemic in unprecedented ways, massively and necessarily disrupting the economy in the process. Policymakers are now considering or already taking quick, large steps to both ease the health care challenges and stem the economic pain. Here are seven things we […]

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The coronavirus is spreading quickly around the globe. Governments, businesses and families respond to the pandemic in unprecedented ways, massively and necessarily disrupting the economy in the process. Policymakers are now considering or already taking quick, large steps to both ease the health care challenges and stem the economic pain. Here are seven things we know about the economy and economic policy that should guide the design of additional policy steps:

1)     This is first and foremost a health care crisis

The underlying cause of the economic slowdown is a global pandemic. The spread, and thus the economic impact of the virus, are highly unpredictable. But it affects people in all countries, states and localities to some degree.

The pandemic also hurts almost all industries, turning the health care challenge into an economic one. People can no longer travel and go out. Supply chain disruptions idle manufacturing plants. Warehouse workers are becoming ill and increasingly worried about getting ill. Health-care workers on the front lines of the virus could become infected and need to self-quarantine.

The health and safety of the population remain the highest policy priority. Congress and the administration need to make sure that sufficient diagnostic, protective and therapeutic equipment are available. Policymakers also need to make sure that economically vulnerable health care workers and health aides in particular, do not have to choose between work while sick and staying home. They will need paid sick leave as well as paid medical and family leave. This will mean expanding already enacted protections, so that the self-employed also receive benefits.

2)     The demand side of the economy is primarily hurt

Most of the economic disruptions affect the demand side. People can no longer go to work and often lose their jobs and incomes as businesses shutter their operations. Businesses are holding off on investments amid the growing uncertainty. And, exports will inevitably falter as other countries are taking similar actions to slow the spread of the virus.

corona virus

There will be some limited supply side effects. Businesses will fail as they lack customers and cash to sustain them for extended periods of time. Small and medium sized businesses, especially in low-margin industries such as restaurants, will be among the ones most acutely hit by the economic fallout.

Any economic intervention needs to primarily focus on boosting the demand side of the economy. This means replacing incomes, especially among lower-income and middle-income families. They are more likely to work in affected industries and they are less likely to have sufficient savings to tide them over weeks or even months of income losses.

Senate will also have to consider measures to support the supply-side if those effects devastate strategic industries or excessively worsen the demand side effects, for instance, by a concentration of hotels and restaurants in tourism-dependent regions. But any bailout effort will have to come with strong strings attached, so that the aid helps workers and not the top.  

3)     Uncertainty over the economy reins high.

There is a lot businesses, families, governments and economists who don’t know about the economic fallout from the spreading virus. The depth, length and regional dispersion of the economic decline are largely unknown. Nor is it clear whether measures taken now to contain the spread of the virus will be effective.

This uncertainty exacerbates the economic fallout. Businesses are pulling back, not just because they have no customers, but also because they don’t know how much worse it will get. Families are cutting spending in part because they are worried about drastic drops in their incomes. These reactions to the unknowable risks exacerbate the economic downturn.

The federal government can address this massive, widespread and growing uncertainty. It has the ability to quickly spend large sums of money wherever problems rapidly rise. At this point, Congress and the President need to clearly signal their willingness to undertake any steps necessary to stop an economic freefall, no matter where the problems occur and how long they will last.

4)     States and local governments will quickly feel the fallout from the pandemic

State and local governments are at the front lines of the current crisis. Many people in their communities will have to quickly rely on public services. And, local businesses such as restaurants, hotels, and event venues are shuttered for the time being, reducing employment, jobs and tax revenues. And, many of these effects will vary from state to state, from city to city, and even from neighborhood to neighborhood. Finally, states and localities often do not have the wherewithal to commit to supporting their local businesses and families to any meaningful degree. The current crisis puts state and local governments in an untenable position, where they may be forced to choose which parts of their communities will get help and which ones won’t.

5)     The fallout from the pandemic highlights the problems of massive economic inequality

Income and wealth inequality are at or near record highs.

These inequities now create untenable vicious cycles for many families. Lower-income workers tend to not only have lower pay, but also fewer benefits such as health insurance and paid sick leave. Many lower-income workers now face a heightened chance of getting infected, losing their jobs and incomes, and getting stuck with large health care bills. But those same families have few savings to fall back on, are already mire in costly consumer debt thus could quickly fall further behind in paying their bills. Worse, many of these families need to actually rely more on their own savings than higher-income, more financially secure families, because they have less access to public benefits such as unemployment insurance.

corona virus

Any help from Congress thus needs to be progressive, targeting the largest benefits to those most in need. Expanded paid sick leave, paid medical and family leave, and unemployment insurance benefits are a first step to boost incomes where this help is most needed. Policy responses also need to account for the fact that many of the most vulnerable have few savings by, for example, instituting moratoriums on student debt, car loan, and credit card payments.

6)     Focusing on the stock market sends the wrong signal

The stock market has gone through massive gyrations over the past few weeks. Investors have oscillated from panic to euphoria and back to panic. President Trump and his advisors have often expressed more concern over what is happening on Wall Street than what is happening to families. Yet most Americans own few or no stocks on Wall Street. The financial market ups and downs have little immediate impact on them. Boosting the stock market will do little to their current and future financial health.

Worse, focusing on stabilizing or even rescuing Wall Street will create massive problems for average Americans. Giving broad tax breaks to corporations that already sat on large amounts of cash is an inefficient use of money. Many of them will survive the downturn without a short-term cash infusion. And many CEOs will feel empowered by the rhetoric on saving the stock market to prioritize profits and shareholders by squeezing workers now and during a recovery. This is exactly what happened after the stock market crash of 2001 and the Great Recession. Congress and the administration need to be ready to avoid a repeat.

Importantly, Congress should provide only targeted and limited relief to businesses and simultaneously ensure that workers benefit from such assistance before shareholders and CEOs do.

7)     The reach of the Fed is limited.

The Federal Reserve has aggressively cut interest rates to zero. Lower interest rates will have little effect on the economy, at least in the short-term. Key interest rates for mortgages and business loans were already low. And, other interest rates such as those for student loans, car loans and credit cards have regularly remained impervious to changes in the federal funds rate, the key monetary policy tool used by the Federal Reserve. Moreover, businesses are not hurting for capital to invest, at least for now. Large corporations already had massive amounts of cash on hand totaling more than $4.7 trillion, which was more than ten percent of total corporate assets, by the end of 2019. Companies had the money to invest, they just decided not to. At this point, the uncertainty over the economic outlook will likely stymie business investment and there is little that low interest rates can do to stop that.

The same is true for would-be home buyers. Worries about their paychecks will overshadow the benefits of lower mortgage payments. And, the Fed’s interest rate cuts will do little for the interest payments on the more than $4 trillion in consumer credit. Lower interest rates from the Federal Reserve are helpful in the current situation by lowering the costs of credit for those who still want to and can borrow, but that effect is likely limited.

The Federal Reserve has also increased liquidity. It has already reintroduced two programs used during the last crisis to ensure that banks and corporations have sufficient liquidity to execute all short-term deals. The Fed will continue to monitor and support credit markets, so that they don’t seize up. These moves help and will continue to make sure that credit market problems don’t exacerbate rapidly deteriorating economic conditions, but it will do little to push economic growth upward.

The ball is now in fiscal policymakers’ court as monetary policy has done as much as it can in this situation. Large fiscal interventions that allow federal, state and local decision makers to address the economic problems where they appear will be necessary. This will allow governments to quickly address the immediate health care challenges but also the quickly escalating economic fallout

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Signs an Elevator is Overdue a Service https://volksliftea.co.ke/signs-an-elevator-is-overdue-a-service/ https://volksliftea.co.ke/signs-an-elevator-is-overdue-a-service/#respond Fri, 24 Apr 2020 10:50:23 +0000 http://volksliftea.co.ke/?p=1060 As a piece of man-made technology, it is essential that an elevator is inspected by a licenced professional on a regular basis in order to ensure that it is safe for use. After all, a small problem can quickly develop into a serious issue that may end up putting the lives of passengers at risk. […]

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As a piece of man-made technology, it is essential that an elevator is inspected by a licenced professional on a regular basis in order to ensure that it is safe for use. After all, a small problem can quickly develop into a serious issue that may end up putting the lives of passengers at risk. Here at Volkslift East Africa, our engineers are trained in order to deal with each and every lift related concern that our clients may have. Read on as we go over 3 signs that your elevator may be overdue a service…

Regular Breakdowns

In the event of a breakdown, an elevator is programmed to slowly grind to a halt within the shaft rather than plummet into the basement. With this said, breakdowns that occur frequently should be investigated by an engineer sooner rather than later as it often suggests that there is a serious fault with the mechanics that needs to be addressed. 

Mid-Levelling

When an elevator cab stops above or below the desired floor, it is known as mid-levelling. This can cause health and safety issues as it may cause passengers to trip and fall over the lip as they enter or exit the lift. Usually, mid-levelling occurs when there is an issue with the brakes, and is more likely to occur when a lift is overdue a service or the maintenance requirements are regularly neglected.

Jerky Movements

An elevator journey that leaves passengers fearing for their lives is not an ideal outcome. In fact, these cabs should not be utilised until the problem is rectified. After all, jerky elevators can make a journey feel unstable and should be investigated promptly in order to determine the cause of such issues, especially when a service has not been carried out for quite some time.

Every functioning elevator should be inspected on a bi-annual basis in order to ensure that there aren’t any areas for concern within the internal components. In fact, a property owner that fails to abide by these requirements may land themselves with a hefty fine because they are an important health and safety regulation that must be implemented at all times. To find out more information about elevator servicing, get in contact with the lift maintenance experts at Volkslift East Africa today!

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Moving walkways https://volksliftea.co.ke/moving-walkways/ https://volksliftea.co.ke/moving-walkways/#respond Wed, 15 Apr 2020 05:23:39 +0000 http://volksliftea.co.ke/?p=1050 When it comes to hitching a ride, it doesn’t get easier than moving walkways.  Around for over 130 years, they have evolved from simple conveyor belts to sophisticated systems that move people along horizontal and inclined planes.Now the crowd regulator of choice, moving walkways often partner with escalators to manage the day-to-day flow of vast quantities […]

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When it comes to hitching a ride, it doesn’t get easier than moving walkways.  Around for over 130 years, they have evolved from simple conveyor belts to sophisticated systems that move people along horizontal and inclined planes.Now the crowd regulator of choice, moving walkways often partner with escalators to manage the day-to-day flow of vast quantities of people in public areas such as airports, tourist attractions and exhibition centers.

Backtrack to the 19th Century – Big Ideas Become Reality

America lives up to its Land of Dreams reputation with New Jersey inventor and wine merchant, Albert Speer, patenting his ‘endless travelling sidewalk’ in 1871. Though never built, in the 1890 issue of Scientific America, his system was explained thus…

“These belts were to be made up of a series of small platform railway cars strung together. The first line of belts was to run at a slow velocity, say 3 miles per hour, and upon this slow belt of moving pavement, passengers were expected to step without difficulty. The next adjoining belt was intended to have a velocity of 6 miles per hour, but its speed, in reference to the first belt, would be only 3 miles per hour. Each separate line of belt was thus to have a different speed from the adjacent one; and thus the passenger might, by stepping from one platform to another, increase or diminish his rate of transit at will. Seats were to be placed at convenient points on the travelling platforms.”

France Hops On

In 1880, engineer Monsieur Dalifol patented his ‘New systems of locomotion by moving floors with traction by fixed motors’, but his untimely demise stopped the project. Likewise, in 1889, architect and urban planner Eugène Hénard submitted plans for a moving platform system for the 1889 Paris Fair, but plans fell through.

World’s First Moving Walkway

In 1893, America debuted the world’s first moving walkway at the World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. 1,310-metre brainchild of architect, Joseph L. Silsbee and engineer, Max E. Schmidt, the device comprised a multiple speed system using two contiguous platforms operating at three and six mph, with the slow platform being used solely for access to the faster one.

A Wooden Serpent with Its Tail in Its Mouth

Seven years later, this design-duo showcased their Trottoir Roulant (moving pavement) at the Paris Exposition Universelle – a three-kilometre loop with articulated wooden segments ‘gliding around like a wooden serpent with its tail in its mouth’, according to one reporter. Nearly seven million visitors hopped on, with a Madame Benost giving birth in transit to an eponymously christened child, Trottoir Roulant Benost.

Retrofittable Moving Walkways

As moving walkways proliferated throughout the world, in 1990 John Loder ‘retro-fittable moving walkways’ made installation easier in existing buildings.

First Commercial Speedwalk

Ideas for high-speed walkways abounded but they all came to nothing, that is until the 1954 arrival of the world’s first speedwalk at the Hudson and Manhattan Railroad’s Erie station, Jersey City – courtesy of the Goodyear and Stephenson-Adamson companies.

Airport Niche Market

The first moving walkway in an airport was installed in the Dallas Love Field Terminal in 1958 – linking the main terminal with the first gates in each of the three concourses. Despite some user issues, other airports jumped on-board, including American Airlines with their ‘Astroways’, in 1960.

UK Hops On

London’s Waterloo and City line hosted the UK’s first moving walkway in 1960 – to resolve the intolerable conditions leading passengers on foot to the station. Work began in 1957, with the travelator described as ‘an American device which was basically a step-less escalator on an easy incline’.

Moving Walkways Today

Once the stuff of science fiction moving walkways are now science fact, in use in highly demanding public areas around the world.

Nowadays, high speed, high capacity moving walkways using maglev technology, accelerate from walking to 7.5 mph top speed. And urban visionaries, working towards car-free cities, envisage moving walkways carrying 7,000 passengers apiece per hour more energy efficiently than buses. Also known as… moving sidewalks, autowalks and travelators.They can be easily installed in places with long horizontal areas and they can even be used in outdoors (with adequate waterproofing protection). Moving walkways are often installed in supermarkets, airports and train stations.

Like their lift buddies, we here at Volkslift East Africa love all the moving walkways we install and service, so want to leave you with our top three fun facts: 

  • One of the earliest introduction of moving walkways was by the Ancient Egyptians in building the Great Pyramids of Giza, where stone cubes were carried on tree trunks and rolled towards the build site using a long belt pulled by workers.
  • Guinness World Records says the longest single moving walkway in a city is just over 204 metres in length and carries pedestrians underneath the parks and gardens of The Domain area in Sydney, Australia – taking just over 5 minutes to complete one length.
  • By 2021, the maintenance and modernisation budget that will be spent on elevators and moving stairways will be $125 billion.

We hope you liked the rise and history of the moving walkway, if you’re keen to know more why not take a look at our moving walkway product page? And see the complete range of products and services the Volkslift East Africa company provide.

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Elevator Safety Tips https://volksliftea.co.ke/elevator-safety-tips/ https://volksliftea.co.ke/elevator-safety-tips/#respond Tue, 07 Apr 2020 03:26:06 +0000 http://volksliftea.co.ke/?p=1045 Elevators are among the safest modes of transportation, with over 325 million daily riders on some 700,000 elevators in the U.S. Yet incidents involving elevators kill more than 25 people and seriously injure another 10,000 each year, according to data provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Although […]

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Elevators are among the safest modes of transportation, with over 325 million daily riders on some 700,000 elevators in the U.S. Yet incidents involving elevators kill more than 25 people and seriously injure another 10,000 each year, according to data provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Although television and movies often depict dangerous elevator failures, reality is quite different. Elevators are supported by multiple steel cables, and each cable alone can support a fully loaded car. So a plummeting elevator car full of screaming riders is more Hollywood fiction than fact.

In early 2020, the ASME A17.1-2019 Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators received a number of revisions. Important changes include: Updates to door requirements in private residence elevators and occupant evacuation elevators. Seismic requirements for elevators and escalators were clarified. Updates were made to emergency communication requirements for an elevator to ensure communication with trapped passengers, including those who are hearing impaired. And requirements were modified for increased door protection on passenger elevators.

Elevator safety

Nevertheless, there are several steps and best practices repair workers and riders can follow to help ensure their safety when using or working on an elevator. Check the elevator safety tips and resources below for details.

Elevator Safety Tips for Workers, Employers and Building Owners

Elevator and construction workers are at highest risk for elevator-related injuries. Almost half of elevator-related deaths occur to people working on or near elevators – including those installing, repairing and maintaining elevators or working in or near elevator shafts. The most common incidents are falls into the shaft, workers caught between moving parts or platforms and workers struck by elevator cars or counterweights.

To help prevent elevator-related deaths and injuries, employers and workers should take these steps:

Elevator safety
  • Ensure workplace protective practices and training are adequate.
  • De-energize and lock-out electrical circuits and mechanical equipment when elevators are out of service or under repair
  • Establish a permit-required confined-space program for elevator shafts
  • Provide adequate fall protection during work in or near elevator shafts
  • Develop an adequate inspection and maintenance program
  • Use only qualified repair companies or workers for elevator repair and maintenance
  • Post appropriate elevator safety signs for emergency operation, freight elevators, counterweights, elevator shafts, inspection tags, etc.

Elevator Safety Tips for Riders

When waiting for elevators:

  • Look and listen for the signal announcing your car’s arrival
  • Stand clear of the elevator doors and stand aside for exiting passengers
  • If the arriving car is full, wait for the next car
  • Don’t attempt to maneuver in or stop closing doors, wait for the next car
  • In the event of a fire or other situation that could lead to a disruption in electrical services, take the stairs

When boarding elevators:

  • Allow passengers exiting the elevator to clear before boarding
  • Watch your step – the elevator car may not be perfectly level with the floor
  • Stand clear of the doors – keep clothes and carry-ons away from the opening
  • Push and hold the DOOR OPEN button if doors need to be held open, or ask someone to push the button for you
  • Never try to stop a closing door, wait for the next car

When riding elevators:

  • Hold the handrail, if available
  • Stand next to the elevator wall, if available
  • Pay attention to the floor indications and announcements when provided
  • If the doors do not open when the elevator stops, push the DOOR OPEN button
  • Stay calm if you find yourself stuck in an elevator. Use the elevator’s alarm button or emergency contact button to get help. Elevator cars are designed to be “safe rooms”, and the safest place is inside the car.

When exiting elevators:

  • Exit immediately at your floor. Do not wait for others behind you
  • Do not push the people in front of you when exiting
  • Watch your step – the elevator car may not be perfectly level with the floor

In case of an elevator emergency:

Elevator safety
  • If the elevator stops between floors, don’t panic – there is plenty of air in the elevator
  • Reassure and calm anyone who is panicked about being stuck in the elevator
  • Use the ALARM or HELP button, the telephone or the intercom to call for assistance. Follow the posted instructions for their use.
  • Don’t attempt to pry open the doors
  • Never climb out of a stalled elevator. Wait for qualified help to arrive
  • Emergency lighting will come on in the event of a power failure

Elevator Safety Resources:

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Elevator Access Control Systems https://volksliftea.co.ke/elevator-access-control-system/ https://volksliftea.co.ke/elevator-access-control-system/#respond Mon, 24 Feb 2020 13:24:02 +0000 http://volksliftea.co.ke/?p=1019 Elevator access control systems grant certain people access to specific floors in a building at predetermined times. Systems can control various numbers of elevators, depending on the control panel that is chosen. This can improve a business’s security and reduce costs. An identification device can be issued to each person who works in the facility to […]

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Elevator access control systems grant certain people access to specific floors in a building at predetermined times. Systems can control various numbers of elevators, depending on the control panel that is chosen. This can improve a business’s security and reduce costs.

An identification device can be issued to each person who works in the facility to grant access to specific floors within the building. Elevator access can be integrated with CCTV cameras to see who is attempting to use elevators to access various floors.

Elevator access can be granted or denied based on the user’s classification, the time of day, the elevator the person is attempting to use, and the armed state of a department. The status of a zone can be changed to grant or deny access. Elevator access control systems can be created that are both flexible and secure.

A company’s staff can change frequently. Employees can lose keys or not turn them in when their employment ends. By assigning each person a proximity card or key fob, an individual device can be removed from the system, which eliminates the need to change the locks in each elevator.

Many businesses require a supervisor to be present before other employees are allowed into the building. An elevator access control system can be set up so that only supervisors can disarm elevators and allow other personnel access.

Different departments can operate on different schedules. An access control system can allow access to individual elevators only at specific times.

The general public needs to be kept out of restricted areas. This can be accomplished by automatically locking and unlocking lobby elevators at specific times.

Employing guards to protect a business can be expensive. Using an elevator access control system, intercoms, and cameras can reduce the need for guards and lower costs.

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Elevator Myths and Facts https://volksliftea.co.ke/elevator-myths-and-facts/ https://volksliftea.co.ke/elevator-myths-and-facts/#respond Fri, 21 Feb 2020 08:54:38 +0000 http://volksliftea.co.ke/?p=1004 Despite how many people ride elevators, a large number of riders are afraid that something could happen during their ride. While most people use them daily with no issues, it doesn’t change the fear and anxiety that occur due to the elevator myths told in the society. Here are three common elevator myths that might […]

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Despite how many people ride elevators, a large number of riders are afraid that something could happen during their ride. While most people use them daily with no issues, it doesn’t change the fear and anxiety that occur due to the elevator myths told in the society. Here are three common elevator myths that might change your mind about elevator safety.

“Elevators Rely on One Rope”

Too many people believe that if one rope snaps on an elevator that it will free fall. Elevators use multiple steel cables and each cable can support the fully-loaded car. The truth is that most of the safety mechanisms in an elevator are hidden. In the movies, it may look like one snapped rope can cause an elevator to fall. This couldn’t be any farther from the actual truth.

“Elevator Doors Can Open Even if The Car is Not There”

You’ve seen it in movies, someone is waiting for an elevator, the doors open to nothing causing them to fall into the shaft. This will not happen in real life. Elevator doors are controlled by the car, when the car reaches the landing, it triggers the doors to open. If the car is not in the correct spot, the doors cannot open on their own. The only way the doors can open without a car is if they are pulled open by an elevator maintenance worker using the proper tools.

“A Crowded Elevator Can Fall”

Elevators are equipped with sensors that won’t let the elevator move if there are too many passengers. In fact, the doors will usually remain open and a buzzer will sound to warn people to get off the elevator. Once enough people are off the elevator, it will function again. In some cases, the elevator may even have technology to distribute riders to reduce overcrowding.

While everyone rides elevators, not everyone knows all of the safety measures involved. The truth is that elevators are safer than people imagine them to be. It makes sense why people have concerns about elevators, but most of it can easily be debunked. For elevator installation or for answers to your elevator questions, contact Elevator Service by calling 0716 757 222 or emailing us today!

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Elevator maintenance https://volksliftea.co.ke/elevator-maintenance/ Thu, 20 Feb 2020 12:43:26 +0000 http://volksliftea.co.ke/?p=995 Can you imagine your building elevator not functional? Most people cannot. This is why proper elevator maintenance is a necessity. Elevator maintenance involves ensuring that no accidents or breakdowns happen on elevators. Elevator maintenance helps avoid major replacements and it prolongs the life of elevators. Choosing the right company for the maintenance of your building’s […]

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Can you imagine your building elevator not functional? Most people cannot. This is why proper elevator maintenance is a necessity.

Elevator maintenance involves ensuring that no accidents or breakdowns happen on elevators. Elevator maintenance helps avoid major replacements and it prolongs the life of elevators.

Choosing the right company for the maintenance of your building’s elevator will be connected to various benefits.

RELIABILITY AND HIGH QUALITY

The first and most obvious one is reliability. The elevator will be maintained in a proper way, which means that its up time will increase. You can expect quick reaction in the case of a problem.

Quality of maintenance matters, as well. This is why you should choose the right elevator companies. Picking the right contractor is essential for success. Proper maintenance will decrease the need for frequent calls to have your elevator repaired. Even if you have to pay more for a company that provides good customer service, you will be doing it less regularly than in the case of a mediocre elevator maintenance service.

ELEVATOR PASSENGER SAFETY

You will also be enjoying increased safety by selecting the right elevator companies. Let’s face it – the safe operation of an elevator is a very important aspect of maintaining a safe building. Elevator maintenance follows a set of criteria designed to maximize the safety of the people using it. Smooth transportation starts with a safe elevator that is functioning properly.

GETTING THE LATEST ELEVATOR TECHNOLOGY

Just like in the case of any device, an elevator will become outdated as time passes. Technology is changing and so are elevator parts. Look for an innovative elevator maintenance company to advise you on the best available technology for your elevator.

Contracting a quality elevator company will ensure that you will be gaining access to the latest technologies. Old parts will be replaced with innovative ones that increase the efficiency of the elevator and its longevity. An old system can be replaced altogether, giving you and the people living in the building access to the newest and most comfortable elevator ride.

Elevator passengers are expecting convenience and safety. It is your duty to make sure that you are getting access to an elevator company that provides superior customer services. Proper research and taking the time to interview different companies is essential for the selection an elevator company to best fit your needs.

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Project Management https://volksliftea.co.ke/project-management/ https://volksliftea.co.ke/project-management/#respond Fri, 14 Feb 2020 12:13:40 +0000 http://volksliftea.co.ke/?p=975 Project management is the practice of initiating, planning, executing, controlling, and closing the work of a team to achieve specific goals and meet specific success criteria at the specified time. At the start of a project, the amount of planning and work required can seem overwhelming. There may be dozens, or even hundreds of tasks that need to […]

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Project management is the practice of initiating, planning, executing, controlling, and closing the work of a team to achieve specific goals and meet specific success criteria at the specified time.

At the start of a project, the amount of planning and work required can seem overwhelming. There may be dozens, or even hundreds of tasks that need to be completed at just the right time and in just the right sequence.

At Volkslift East Africa we guide our clients through the stages of project management.This ensures that the projects are completed on schedule and within the allocated budget. Lets take a look at the various stages:

Seasoned project managers know it is often easier to handle the details of a project and take steps in the right order when you break the project down into phases. Dividing your project management efforts into these five phases can help give your efforts structure and simplify them into a series of logical and manageable steps.

1. Project Initiation

Initiation is the first phase of the project lifecycle. This is where the project’s value and feasibility are measured. Project managers typically use two evaluation tools to decide whether or not to pursue a project:

  • Business Case Document – This document justifies the need for the project, and it includes an estimate of potential financial benefits.
  • Feasibility Study – This is an evaluation of the project’s goals, timeline and costs to determine if the project should be executed. It balances the requirements of the project with available resources to see if pursuing the project makes sense.

Teams abandon proposed projects that are labeled unprofitable and/or unfeasible. However, projects that pass these two tests can be assigned to a project team or designated project office.

2. Project Planning

Once the project receives the green light, it needs a solid plan to guide the team, as well as keep them on time and on budget. A well-written project plan gives guidance for obtaining resources, acquiring financing and procuring required materials. The project plan gives the team direction for producing quality outputs, handling risk, creating acceptance, communicating benefits to stakeholders and managing suppliers.

The project plan also prepares teams for the obstacles they might encounter over the course of the project, and helps them understand the cost, scope and time frame of the project.

Stages of Project Management

3. Project Execution

This is the phase that is most commonly associated with project management. Execution is all about building deliverables that satisfy the customer. Team leaders make this happen by allocating resources and keeping team members focused on their assigned tasks.

Execution relies heavily on the planning phase. The work and efforts of the team during the execution phase are derived from the project plan.

4. Project Monitoring and Control

Monitoring and control are sometimes combined with execution because they often occur at the same time. As teams execute their project plan, they must constantly monitor their own progress.

To guarantee delivery of what was promised, teams must monitor tasks to prevent scope creep, calculate key performance indicators and track variations from allotted cost and time. This constant vigilance helps keep the project moving ahead smoothly.

Project Management planning phrase

5. Project Closure

Teams close a project when they deliver the finished project to the customer, communicating completion to stakeholders and releasing resources to other projects. This vital step in the project lifecycle allows the team to evaluate and document the project and move on the next one, using previous project mistakes and successes to build stronger processes and more successful teams.

Although project management may seem overwhelming at times, breaking it down into these five distinct cycles can help your team manage even the most complex projects and use time and resources more wisely.

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