COVID-19 Safety Planning and coming out again - Managing your lift assets

Tim Steenkamp • September 10, 2021

Advice from NSW Health indicates the Covid-19 lockdown will be lifted (in part) as per the current 'roadmap' around the 18th of October. Other business and individual freedoms will then be rolled out in stages, as and when prudent to do so. As the duration of the restrictions remains uncertain, there is potential that any lift projects planned for your property may be delayed as a consequence. Therefore, you must consider the likely implications of the current uncertainties and plan accordingly to minimise any impact.

 

We anticipate that as restrictions are lifted and the NSW Government directs "other" business to "resume as normal", many other lift refurbishments/replacement projects already delayed/on hold will resume simultaneously. This will create an influx of orders for the major lift companies and almost certainly outstrip their ability to meet demand. There is high potential for inflated pricing in such a situation, as lift companies will prioritise available stock and labour resources for significant construction projects or clients willing to pay a premium. The remaining clients will then become part of the 'order backlog' system and be forced to wait until stock and labour availability gradually improves. In summary, any client that chooses to delay their project until after the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions may be exposing themselves to significant additional costs and equipment lead time delays of up to 12-18 months, instead of the standard 6 months.

 

In addition to the above, uncertainty exists due to recently announced cuts in Chinese steel production and exports to Australia. Unfortunately, most of the major lift companies source their equipment from China. It appears certain that further export restrictions or tariffs will soon follow as the current trade war escalates.

 

On a positive note, as with elevator companies, lift consultants are classified as essential workers and continue to operate as usual to keep lift equipment running safely and efficiently. As such, Equity remains able to provide our clients with ongoing on-site audits and surveys to help keep their lift replacement and maintenance programs on track. Equity initiated robust safety processes, and we comply with all current health advice.

 

Our Compliance:

 

  • Equity operates from an LGA (Sutherland Shire) with no current concerns or added restrictions.
  • Equity is registered with NSW Government as a Covid-19 Safe business.
  • Equity will have a COVID-19 Site Safety Plan in place when attending your premises, and we are committed to keeping you safe.
  • Equity personnel attending your premises are fully vaccinated and wear appropriate PPE.
  • No 'group' site inspections will be conducted. The Equity Lift Consultant will perform site inspections alone.
  • The Equity Lift Consultant will also undertake a complete technical site survey with photos, diagrams and supporting videos for later use by the tenderers.
  • Equity will provide an online media 'OneDrive' and a meeting room to facilitate the tender process without the need for any face-to-face contact.

 

If your lift equipment's reliability is deteriorating or is in danger of a critical failure, you should act without delay to stay ahead of the pack once restrictions are eased. If your Strata Plan remains committed to proceeding with your lift upgrade or replacement project, in that case, Equity recommends that the Owners Committee urgently proceeds with the process as soon as possible, before the current window of opportunity closes and equipment allocations and lead times are impacted.

 

Equity Elevator Consultants would welcome the opportunity to assist your Strata Plan with an expedited process, professional project administration and management to keep your lift project program on track and help you avoid getting caught in the post-Covid-19 stampede.

 

If you have any queries about your lift upgrade requirements, please don't hesitate to reach out. Equity would be happy to meet with your Committee or schedule a zoom meeting to answer your questions and provide free general advice.

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