AN EVALUATION OF RIDE QUALITY IN LIFT SYSTEMS OF SELECTED PUBLIC HIGH-RISE BUILDINGS IN ABUJA, NIGERIA

Abstract

Ride quality of lifts enhances the comfort of users. However, problems associated with ride quality have progressively received attention from lift users in buildings. Vibration and noise produced during operations are relevant parameters for consideration when evaluating ride quality of lift systems. This study explored the ride quality of lifts of selected high-rise buildings within the Central Business District (CBD) of Abuja, Nigeria. The study adopted field survey research. Measuring instruments like the WT85 Digital Sound Level Meter and Smart Sensor AS63D Vibration Meter alongside a checklist were used for data collection on lift interior sound level and vibration during acceleration. Results shows that 64.3% of the buildings have unsatisfactory interior lift sound levels and 71.4% with poor ride quality. Inferential statistical analysis showed significant differences (p<0.05) in the mean values of lift car interior sound levels and lift acceleration values. The assessed lift systems were considered to have unsatisfactory ride quality as majority of them made sounds beyond expected standards for optimum sound level in lift car and vibration. For high-rise buildings considering modernization of lift system or installation of new ones, ride quality is a factor to consider for optimum service delivery and users ride comfort.