Lift Upgrading Programme (LUP) for Blocks with Single Lift

Mr Zainal Sapari asked the Minister for National Development in view of HDB's Lift Upgrading Programme (LUP) in blocks where there is only one serviceable lift during the entire upgrading process (a) what due diligence does the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) exercise before granting approval for LUP works for such blocks; (b) whether HDB is required to carry out a risk assessment especially in respect of high floor emergency rescue and, if so, what is the evaluation basis; and (c) what is BCA's recommendation to mitigate unforeseen circumstances involving high floor evacuation.

The design and construction of lift shafts and the installation of lifts are subject to approval by BCA to ensure the structural safety of the new lift shaft and that of the existing building.

In particular, for high-rise buildings exceeding eight storeys, the Singapore Civil Defence Force's (SCDF's) Fire Code will require one of the lifts to be operational at all times to function as a fireman's lift. HDB’s Lift Upgrading Programme fully complies with this requirement. It further requires that blocks with more than two lifts have at least two operational lifts during upgrading.

In cases where there is only one lift serving the block, HDB will work with the local Town Council and the lift companies to closely monitor the performance of the lift. The lift company will also be required to respond to any fault at a shorter response time than during its normal operation.

Nevertheless, in the event of an emergency requiring high floor evacuation when there is no lift service, for instance due to a lift breakdown, residents will evacuate via the staircases. SCDF will provide assistance to those who require help with the evacuation. This is similar to the procedure in an emergency such as a fire, where it is dangerous to use the lift. In medical emergencies, SCDF paramedics will similarly use the staircases to evacuate the patient. While this may take a slightly longer time, the paramedics are trained to ensure the safety and stability of the patient throughout the evacuation process.