The Specifiers' Handbook for Inclusive Design series comprises a set of design guides which look in detail at the technical aspects of key building elements. The series expands on guidance in Designing for Accessibility, a leading CAE/RIBA Enterprises publication covering inclusive design in a range of public buildings. The Specifiers' Handbook for Inclusive Design series has been prepared to assist designers, specifiers, building owners and occupiers, building managers and facilities managers to understand key design aspects and characteristics of specific architectural elements. The series combines technical guidance with informative case studies, designed to facilitate a practical understanding of the element in focus.

Platform Lifts covers the design and access opportunities which platform lifts offer in improving physical access to and within non-domestic buildings. It covers a range of platform lift types and offers practical guidance to help specifiers understand the different types of platform lift, the factors contributing to their design and specification, related legislation, building regulations and studies. The design guidance is supported by case study examples which illustrate different types of platform lift in a range of situations.

Hideaki Shinoda is Professor in the Graduate School for Global Studies at Tokyo University of Foreign Studies.