17 January 2026
Are Parking Elevators Safe?
Yes, when you install them properly, and operate properly, and maintain them properly.
Automated parking systems, also known as parking lifts or car elevators, must comply with stringent safety standards. When constructed and operated properly, they are as reliable as the conventional elevators found in the buildings. Just like any piece of machinery, how safe they are comes down to three things: good design, correct usage, and proper maintenance.
Key Safety Features in Parking Elevators
At the time of installation, parking elevators come with several safety layers that keep both cars and people protected.
- Locking Mechanisms: Metal locks installed at regular points stop any unwanted motion and hold the platform steady if power goes out.
- Sensors and Cameras: Detection equipment and tracking systems spot problems like misalignment or blockages and shut everything down right away if something’s wrong.
- Load-Bearing Structure: Tough platforms and frames are made to carry vehicle weight safely both when the system is sitting still or moving.
- Redundant Safety Systems: Backup components such as velocity fuses ensure that the system stops in a controlled manner in case something goes wrong.
- User Guides: Parking elevators are usually accompanied with a user manual that guides proper operation and maintenance.
How Users Can Ensure Safety
- Follow instructions: Always follow the operating instructions specified for entering & exiting.
- Drive carefully: Keep your driving smooth and controlled. Avoid sudden braking.
Secure the vehicle: Switch off the engine, set it to Park, and pull the handbrake before leaving. - Timely Maintenance: Stay on top of maintenance. Small checks help prevent bigger issues. Look for small leaks or wear to keep it running well.
How i-CUBE Parking Elevators Ensures Safety
At i-CUBE Parking Elevators, we adhere to the highest standards of safety. Beyond standard safety measures, all our elevators come with the following:
- User Training: Training videos on proper operation and maintenance are available to our clients on the i-Cube mobile application.
- Enhanced Locking Systems: Metal locking parts are placed every 100mm to stop the platform from moving without permission during use or when power cuts out. This means that in any unwanted situation, a platform would go no lower than 100 mm. This ensures that both the car on the platform and the one below remain unharmed.
- Advanced Monitoring: Safety detection equipment and cameras watch alignment and motion constantly, shutting the system down on their own if they catch anything unusual.
- Higher Factor of Safety: Every part of the parking lift is made with a Factor of Safety of 2. This means that the unit can safely carry twice the working load than what is prescribed. The industry standard for the Factor of Safety is 1.5.
Conclusion
Parking lifts are a safe and efficient way to maximize parking space in urban areas. With correct installation, maintenance, and use, the chance of an accident is reduced. However, as with any machinery, safety comes first, and care should be taken to ensure that the lift is in good working order and utilized correctly. Drivers should use caution and adhere to the manufacturer’s directions to reduce the chance of an accident.
Check out our blogs on simple steps for maintenance and the do’s and don’ts for daily usage for more information.
