Is an under pan sensor or safety touch plate necessary under the platform?
Yes. A vertical platform lift used as a porch lift should never be installed without one. This plate is a safety feature and will cause a unit to stop in the down motion if it encounters any barrier e.g. snow, animals, toys, small children. It is a must for safety! Keep in mind that the client who is using a wheelchair cannot see what is under him or her when operating the unit. When a unit is installed in a hoistway, a safety touch plate is not necessary because the interlock on each door controls each stop. An under pan safety sensor is mandatory by code for an unenclosed application.