BS 8486-3:2017 concerns the examination and testing of certain new lifts before they are put into service. For a building owner or project manager, the useful questions are which specification applies to the installation, who will complete and review the testing, and what information will be handed over.
This guide explains those decisions for a new passenger or goods-passenger lift project. Testing arrangements should be established by the lift specialists responsible for the installation and examination.
What Is BS 8486-3:2017?
BSI lists BS 8486-3:2017 as current. Its published scope describes a way to determine compliance with examination, testing and recording provisions for new electric and hydraulic lifts specified in BS EN 81-20:2014, before use.
The full standard sets out its application and exclusions. Its title should not be treated as a universal specification for every platform lift, goods-only lift or existing installation. Ask the project’s lift specialist to identify the appropriate standards and editions for the actual equipment.
Testing, Thorough Examination and Servicing Have Different Jobs
A new installation’s testing programme, a statutory thorough examination and ongoing maintenance answer different questions. Establish how each will be handled in the project rather than treating one certificate as the complete handover.
| Workstream | Question for the project team |
|---|---|
| Installation testing | Which specification applies, who carries out the tests and how are results recorded? |
| Thorough examination | Who is the competent person, what examination is required and where is the written report? |
| Servicing and maintenance | Who maintains the equipment after handover and what programme has been agreed? |
HSE describes a thorough examination as a detailed check by a competent person, followed by a written report. It explains the need for sufficient independence and impartiality, including avoiding examination of one’s own maintenance work. Routine servicing is a separate activity.
For a lift assembled on site, installation conditions matter. HSE’s equipment guidance explains why a Declaration of Conformity alone does not remove the need to confirm safe installation where safety depends on assembly or installation conditions. Establish the arrangements before the lift is brought into use.
Agree the Testing and Handover Route Before Installation
Put the following questions into the project discussion while the specification and programme are still being developed:
- Which lift standards and test specification apply to the proposed equipment?
- Who is responsible for installation testing and its records?
- Is consultant review or witness testing part of the agreed scope?
- Who arranges the required thorough examination?
- What site access, equipment and working arrangements does the testing team need?
- Who reviews outstanding items and confirms their close-out?
- Who receives the handover documents and accepts responsibility for the lift in service?
These questions also help a principal contractor, managing agent and client representative understand their respective project tasks. A clear responsibility list is more useful than leaving arrangements to be resolved during the final week.
Prepare a Practical Handover Checklist
Agree the required package with the lift contractor and the people who will manage the building. Discuss:
- Equipment identification, specification and applicable standards.
- Relevant test records and any consultant or witness-review records.
- The required examination report and outstanding actions.
- Operation and maintenance manuals and available drawings.
- User familiarisation and the building’s arrangements for reporting faults.
- Warranty scope, exclusions and contact information.
- The proposed service programme and the responsible maintenance provider.
- The named person holding the records after handover.
This is a planning checklist to tailor to the contract and installation. The project team should establish which documents and approvals are required for that particular lift.
What Our MHA Programme Shows
Our ten-lift replacement programme for MHA care homes documents testing to BS 8486-3:2017, review by MHA’s lift consultant and transfer of operation and maintenance manuals. It also records the programme’s agreed warranty and service plan.
The case study gives a practical example of connecting installation work with review, records and ongoing support. Each new project needs its own specification and agreed handover package.
Questions Building Owners Often Ask
Is BS 8486-3:2017 the Same as LOLER?
No. BS 8486-3 is a standard concerned with a defined new-lift testing scope. LOLER establishes legal duties concerning lifting equipment. Discuss the applicable testing and examination requirements separately. Our LOLER guide provides further context for lift owners.
Does This Guide Give Instructions for Carrying Out the Tests?
No. The full standard, equipment information and competent specialist assessment are needed for the test programme. This page helps the building team ask the right questions and organise the project information.
What About a Refurbished or Existing Lift?
Ask the lift specialist to establish the applicable specification for the equipment and proposed changes. Do not assume that the title of a new-lift standard determines the whole testing scope of a refurbishment.
When Should Ongoing Servicing Be Discussed?
Discuss servicing and maintenance before handover, so the building team knows the agreed programme, fault-reporting route and record holder when the lift enters use.
Planning a Lift Installation or Replacement?
Send the building address, intended use, drawings or existing equipment records and the programme stage. Our installation team can discuss the surveys, technical scope and delivery arrangements needed for a new lift or replacement project. For existing equipment, explore refurbishment options or contact the team.
Sources and standard status checked on 29 October 2026: BSI’s public standard listing, HSE’s thorough-examination guidance and equipment FAQs, and the published MHA project case study linked above.