What is BS 2655-8 – Safety requirements for modernization of lifts, escalators and paternosters about? 
BS 2655 is a series of British Standards that discusses specifications for lifts, escalators, passenger conveyors and paternosters.
BS 2655-8 is the eighth part of the BS 2655 series that deals with the engineering and safety requirements to be incorporated when modernizing and/or reconstructing lifts, escalators and paternosters with the object that parts affected by such changes shall comply with Parts 1, 4 or 5 of BS 2655-8 as far as it is reasonably practicable to do so.
The intention of BS 2655-8 to be constructive rather than restrictive, and to allow an installation of reasonable standard to be modernized or reconstructed in stages as necessary. In the case of completely new installations replacing those existing, special provisions are made to meet certain site restrictions which are often present in buildings that have been in use for many years.
BS 2655-8 guidelines are made so that the use of new equipment is not automatically restricted because certain site requirements are now more rigorous than formerly.
In cases where a lift, escalator or paternoster is moved to a different location, it is not deemed as an alteration, and the equipment, when reinstalled, shall comply with all the requirements of Part 1 of BS 2655-8.
Who is BS 2655-8 – Safety requirements for modernization of lifts, escalators and paternosters for? 
BS 2655-8 on safety requirements for lifts, escalators and paternosters is relevant to: 
- Manufacturers of lifts, escalators, passenger conveyors and paternosters
- Manufacturers and suppliers of parts, components, control equipment
- Product designers
- Mechanical engineers
- Building management/owners
- Public transport undertakings
- Quality control and maintenance personnel
- Local authorities
Why should you use BS 2655-8 - Safety requirements for modernization of lifts, escalators and paternosters?
Lifts, escalators, passenger conveyors and paternosters are heavy units and have specific requirements when it comes to its modernization and reconstruction, to ensure their operations and functionality is restored to levels where the safety of users is not compromised.
BS 2655-8 provides best industry requirements when it comes to major alteration of electric lifts, hydraulic lifts and escalators. These alterations are suggested for the purpose of reconstruction or modernization of existing installations, such that their performance and functionality is restored to acceptable levels, for safe and reliable use.
Thus, complying with BS 2655-8 can ensure smooth working and safe use of lifts, escalators and paternosters. As a result, incidents of product failures, accidents and damage to overall product and equipment can be avoided.
