Case Study: Stannah Lifts upgrade over 230 lifts ahead of PSTN switchover for well-known delivery services company

Stannah Lift Services has upgraded more than 230 lifts for a leading delivery services provider in preparation for the current national switch from PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) to digital networks. This upgrade ensures continued reliable emergency communication and compliance with EN81-28. 

The PSTN switch-over is a nationwide transition from copper-based phone lines to digital GSM networks for improved reliability and enhanced security. The switch-over presents a challenge for businesses using PSTN-connected lift emergency systems, as without upgrading to newer communication methods, these systems will fail, leaving passengers stranded without emergency communication.

Recognising the importance of switching its entire lift portfolio from PSTN lines, our customer selected Stannah for the project following a competitive tender process. Stannah was chosen for its extensive industry expertise and comprehensive post-project support with a managed SIM service.

The work
Many of the customer’s lifts were on sites that relied on PSTN-based auto-diallers, requiring hardware upgrades to be compatible with the newer digital networks.

Stannah collaborated closely with subcontractors to deliver a reliable GSM and auto-dialler solution, using industry-tested hardware and a Stannah Managed SIM for optimal signal coverage. GSM offers a cost-effective alternative to PSTN, especially when paired with Stannah’s managed SIM service for reliable signals, compliance with 3-day auto-dialler checks and uninterrupted service.

The project included various lift types, from passenger to large goods lifts, requiring tailored solutions to maintain compliance and functionality.

The challenges
The lifts, located at various sites across the UK, required a comprehensive survey by Stannah to gain an understanding of the existing hardware, auto diallers and telephony systems. Stannah’s uncompromising approach to lift compliance meant that all replacement equipment had to meet or exceed the original installation standards.

Initially, the project involved 310 lifts, but the number requiring auto-dialler upgrades was unclear. To streamline the process and avoid the customer conducting a time-consuming audit, Stannah accessed their LOLER documentation to establish if there was a lift on site and whether it required an upgrade or not. 

After a thorough review of the data, Stannah identified 237 lifts across 131 sites needing GSM upgrades. This process also provided valuable insight into the compliance levels of each lift, ensuring a smoother and more efficient upgrade programme that minimised disruption to staff. 

The solution
With a 12-month deadline, Stannah implemented a strategic approach, prioritising non-compliant or out of service lifts that had already been affected by the phased switch-over. This approach then allowed the Stannah team to roll out GSM upgrades to the remaining lifts. 

To ensure efficiency, Stannah engineers arrived at each site fully equipped with all the necessary hardware options, minimising potential delays 

Stannah recommended their fully managed GSM SIM service to guarantee reliability and cost efficiency. As a roaming SIM, it automatically connects to the strongest available network, ensuring uninterrupted 24/7 connectivity. The service also provides proactive alerts to lift owners about any issues such as SIM data problems, signal disruptions or battery back-up status eliminating the need for constant monitoring and maintenance while ensuring seamless operation.

The result
Stannah’s expertise, strategic planning and strong collaboration with subcontractors and the client resulted in a successful GSM and auto dialler upgrade for the entire lift portfolio. 

The project was completed ahead of schedule, ensuring all lifts are ready for the PSTN switchover. With Openreach set to complete the UK-wide GSM rollout by January 2027, Stannah’s managed SIM service provides a future-proof solution, enabling remote monitoring, updates and issue detection for long-term efficiency and peace of mind.

Stannah worked closely with the customer to set up an account that enables internal monitoring of auto diallers and seamless integration with other providers. This enhanced their visibility into auto dialler performance, ensuring stranded passengers can contact preprogrammed emergency numbers if needed.

Mike Wright, IoT and Connectivity Solutions Manager at Stannah Lift Services, said: “It was a pleasure to assist this leading delivery company in transitioning its lift communication systems in preparation for PSTN lines switching GSM, which will provide better connectivity and reliability. With many areas of the UK already moved to GSM and as the Openreach’s project completion date of January 2027 looms, we have been working with lift owners to upgrade their lift communication systems. Lift owners who have not yet taken action should reach out to their lift maintenance provider to assess their current communication systems and determine the necessary steps for the PSTN switch-over.”

Openreach’s extended digital switchover deadline can be misleading for lift owners, as the transition has been ongoing since 2018. Many providers have already switched from PSTN to digital networks ahead of the deadline, leaving those who haven’t upgraded their lift communication systems with non-functional lifts. 

Mike continues: “Given the variety of lifts and system requirements, the upgrade process, surveying and installation can take time. We were delighted to have completed this switch over ahead of the project deadline and before their busy Christmas period, allowing the business to operate smoothly. For those who haven’t yet made the switch to digital networks, now is the time.”