Poor data quality and fragmented record is impacting compliance across lift and escalator assets

A lack of reliable data and inconsistent record keeping across lift and escalator assets could be hindering sustainability progress and safety compliance, new research suggests.

The research, commissioned by PEW Electrical, found that nearly two thirds (63 per cent) of facilities managers believe carbon data relating to lifts and escalators to be limited or unreliable. While 72 per cent say the sustainability credentials of lifts and escalators are integral to their building management strategy, more than a quarter (26 per cent) identified a lack of clear data on long-term savings as a key barrier to improving sustainability performance.

The findings are particularly significant given the growing focus on reduction of operational carbon across the built environment, and the reliance on robust performance data for sustainability certification and frameworks such as BREEAM and LEED.

However, almost two thirds (65 per cent) believe their organisation already accurately measures and monitors lift sustainability performance. Meanwhile, a third (33 per cent) of respondents said they have implemented predictive maintenance through IoT technologies, demonstrating more data-driven approaches to asset management.

Yet, data quality and visibility are also posing challenges around compliance data and documentation. Almost half (47 per cent) of FMs said the industry suffers from fragmented and inconsistent record keeping that affects lift compliance, while 15 per cent identified managing accurate and sufficient documentation as a key obstacle to compliance with the Building Safety Act.

Commenting on the findings, Jason Clark, registered engineer and Chairman at PEW Electrical, said: “Changes to building regulations and growing expectations around carbon reduction are helping to drive positive change across the sector, but they also place greater emphasis on accurate data, accountability and evidence of performance.

“To navigate the changes, FMs require a more performance-led approach where systems are actively monitored, managed and optimised over time. But without reliable data, clear documentation and the right tools, it’s difficult to turn information into action.

“What’s needed now is continued investment in skills, better access to performance information and closer collaboration across the supply chain, so FMs have the confidence and evidence they need to make improvements. Suppliers have an important role to play by providing clear performance data, test evidence and golden thread information that helps building owners and facilities managers demonstrate compliance, improve efficiency and make informed decisions about their assets.”