ASPAR KNOWLEDGE BASE
Short answer: 220/380 V in a lift’s specifications refers to the equipment’s power supply, while 12/24 V may indicate the voltage of the push-button control circuits. These parameters serve different purposes. Voltage alone cannot establish whether a design is safe or complies with standards: the circuit diagram, protective measures and documentation for the particular configuration are required.
Power supply and controls: two different circuits
The power circuit supplies energy to the drive system. The control circuit transmits commands, such as raising, lowering or stopping. The voltage at the equipment’s input is not necessarily the same as the voltage of its motor or push buttons.
Depending on the configuration, ASPAR lifts use a 220 or 380 V power supply and 12 or 24 V push-button controls. The specific combination is clarified in the documentation. For example, the product page for the inclined lift for straight stairs with automatic folding lists the 220 V power supply and 24 V controls separately.
The familiar 220/380 V designations should be distinguished from the modern nominal mains voltages of 230/400 V. The connection is agreed based on the equipment’s technical documentation, permissible voltage range and site parameters, rather than the mains designation alone.
Why a “24 V” label does not guarantee safety
Reduced voltage can be part of the protection, but the number alone does not confirm that it is sufficient. For SELV and PELV systems, requirements concerning the source, insulation and protective separation of circuits matter. Protection conditions also depend on whether the current is AC or DC, humidity and the possibility of contact.
A “12 V” or “24 V” designation does not automatically make a circuit SELV or PELV. This is established from its construction and documentation.
It is also necessary to distinguish live contacts inside an insulated push button from parts accessible to the user. The voltage at an internal contact alone does not describe the protection of the external surface. A qualified specialist performs the assessment. Do not open enclosures or test contacts yourself.
What the standards actually specify
For stairlifts and inclined platforms within its scope, EN 81-40:2020, adopted as DSTU EN 81-40:2022, refers in clause 5.5.1.2 to EN 60204-1:2018, clause 9.1.2, for control voltage. It provides SELV as an alternative and refers to the PELV requirements in clause 6.4. This clause does not establish a universal “24 V only” requirement.
EN 81-41:2024, adopted as DSTU EN 81-41:2025, covers the vertical platforms it defines with an enclosed liftway and a carrier that is not completely enclosed. It cannot automatically be extended to all open platforms. Clause 5.5.1.2 limits the RMS voltage of control and safety circuits to 250 V between conductors and between conductors and earth. This is an upper limit, not a requirement to use only 24 V or permission to disregard other protective measures.
The applicability of a standard and the conformity of a particular product are checked separately. This overview does not certify that all ASPAR lifts comply with the standards cited.
What battery power means
A battery may power the drive, support only the controls or form part of a backup system. The presence of a battery alone does not confirm that travel is possible during a power outage. The functions, operating mode, charging arrangements and limitations of the specific configuration need to be clarified.
For specified battery-powered configurations, EN 81-40 (clause 5.5.12.1) and EN 81-41 (clause 5.5.14.1) contain a specific control-voltage limit of 60 V. It should not be interpreted as a general specification for all batteries or drives.
Frequently asked questions
Does a 220 V power supply mean there is also 220 V at the push buttons?
No. The push-button circuit voltage is checked separately using the circuit diagram and technical documentation.
Is choosing 24 V controls enough?
No. Proper insulation, circuit protection and suitability for the operating conditions are required.
Will the lift work without mains electricity?
This depends on the configuration. Clarify exactly what the battery powers and which operations are available without the mains supply.
Agree on the power supply before installation
The technical specification should separately state the supply voltage, push-button circuit voltage, type of current, connection requirements and the user’s actions in the event of a power outage.
To select a stair inclined platform, prepare photos, route dimensions and information about the available power supply. Call ASPAR: +380 66 307 58 87. Further guidance on choosing equipment is collected in the knowledge base.