Accessibility in buildings has become a central issue in Greek society. As the full implementation of the European Accessibility Act (EAA) approaches in 2025, the requirements for elevators and lifting systems serving people with disabilities are becoming increasingly specific and stringent.
In Greece, the technical specifications for elevators designed to serve persons with disabilities are based on the European standard EN 81-70, which defines the dimensions, controls, signage, and communication features that ensure safety and independent use.
Key Dimensions and Technical Requirements
According to EN 81-70, elevators intended for use by people with disabilities must meet the following minimum requirements:
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Cabin: at least 1.10 m × 1.40 m, allowing wheelchair users to enter and turn around.
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Door opening: at least 0.85 m clear width.
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Floor level difference: maximum ± 20 mm between cabin and landing.
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Control panel: installed at a height between 0.90 m and 1.20 m, with Braille markings and embossed symbols.
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Indicators and alerts: both visual and audible signals for floor indication, verbal announcements, and an emergency alarm.
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Lighting and mirrors: adequate cabin lighting and a mirror to help wheelchair users turn easily.
These requirements are not minor design details — they define whether a building can truly be considered accessible.
Implementation in Greece
Greek law, through Law 4994/2022, gradually incorporates the European Accessibility Act into national legislation. At the same time, the National Elevator Register, currently under development, aims to create a complete database of all elevators in the country — an important step toward safety and regulatory control.
In practice, compliance differs depending on building type. In new constructions, accessibility requirements are typically integrated during design. Older buildings, however, often face space limitations, making retrofit or hydraulic compact elevators the most viable options.
Each installation or modernization requires a proper engineering permit and registration, while certification by an accredited inspection body is mandatory before the elevator can operate.
Common Mistakes and Omissions
Despite progress, several issues still appear in installations, especially in older or unregulated systems:
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Incorrect door width that prevents wheelchair access.
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Poor lighting or inadequate mirror placement.
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Control buttons installed too high.
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Lack of audible or visual alerts.
Such errors can result not only in inconvenience for users but also in non-certification during inspection or safety audits.
Conclusion
Compliance with the EN 81-70 standard is not just a bureaucratic formality — it is an investment in safety, dignity, and equal access for all.
As Greece moves toward full implementation of European accessibility rules, building owners and property managers have a valuable opportunity to modernize their elevators and ensure that no one is excluded from public or private spaces.
