The primary European harmonised standard for construction and installation of new passenger and goods lifts, replacing EN 81-1 and EN 81-2 from 2017 onwards.
Full Definition
EN 81-20:2014+A1:2018 sets minimum safety requirements for lift installations covering hoistway and machine space dimensions, guiding systems, suspension and safety devices, landing and car doors, electrical installations, safety circuits, and operating controls. Its companion EN 81-50 specifies component type-examination tests. Key advances over the superseded EN 81-1/81-2: mandatory light curtain door protection, provisions for machine room-less (MRL) installations, electronic safety circuit acceptance, updated clearance and pit requirements, and alignment with Lifts Directive 2014/33/EU for CE marking. The standard is referenced globally in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia where EN standards are adopted by national bodies.
