Older lift installations can hide a hazard that is not visible on a routine inspection: asbestos in the brake shoes and linings. Brake friction materials manufactured before the asbestos bans commonly contained asbestos, and many of those machines are still in service. For a maintenance contractor, a brake repair on an older lift is not a standard mechanical job, it is a job that needs operatives trained to recognise and handle asbestos-containing materials safely.
Why older brakes are a concern
Asbestos was used in brake linings for its heat resistance and friction properties. On an older lift machine, the brake shoes may still contain asbestos fibres. The risk arises during brake work, when linings are removed, cleaned, or machined, and fibres can be released. Standard mechanical training does not cover this, which is why asbestos-trained operatives are required.
How asbestos-trained operatives work
Our operatives are trained to identify suspected asbestos-containing materials, work to controlled methods, and follow the correct removal and disposal routes. Work is carried out under full RAMS documentation, with the appropriate PPE and enclosure where required, and with the waste handled through the correct licensed disposal chain.
Documentation and traceability
Every brake repair is documented for your contract file. Where asbestos-containing materials are identified and removed, the disposal route and certificates are recorded, so your audit trail is complete and your client file is protected.
At EES Vertical Transportation, brake repairs on older lifts are carried out by asbestos-trained operatives under controlled methods and full RAMS documentation. Operating from Middleton, Greater Manchester, attending sites UK-wide. Trade-only service for lift maintenance contractors. See our brake repairs service for the full scope.