A study presented at the European Congress on Obesity reveals that lifts in the UK and Europe are failing to accommodate rising obesity levels, raising safety and equity concerns. Researchers analysed weight limits from 112 lifts manufactured between 1972 and 2024 across seven countries, including the UK.
The findings show that while average adult weight has increased – from 75kg for men and 65kg for women in the mid-1970s to 86kg and 73kg today – lift capacity stopped rising around 2004. Maximum allowances per person rose from 62kg in 1972 to 75kg in 2002, but manufacturers have since assumed a static 75kg average, which is now 4kg below the actual average.
Lead author Professor Nick Finer criticised outdated design assumptions. 'Manufacturers calculate floor space assuming an oval shape, ignoring that obesity increases both weight and size,' he said. 'This leads to flawed calculations that can cause lifts to cut out if overloaded.'
Finer highlighted stigma as a key concern: 'People with obesity may experience everyday weight discrimination when entering lifts.' He called for 'super-sizing' many facilities to ensure inclusion and safety.
Jane DeVille-Almond, president of the British Obesity Society, said society must accept that body sizes are unlikely to revert to 1970s levels and start designing for the 21st century. Nutritionist Louise Payne added that public spaces should ensure dignity and accessibility for all.
