Up to half of lift stoppage incidents can be prevented by passengers themselves, according to the Malta Lift Association.

"We estimate that around half of all incidents involve some form of improper use such as opening a lift's doors while it is still moving,"  a spokesperson for the association said in a statement.

 "A lift stops because of safety mechanisms designed to protect passengers. In lifts that are properly designed, installed, and serviced, operational reliability is close to 100%, provided the lift is used properly."

To ensure passenger safety, the law requires all vertical passenger lifts to be registered, certified, regularly inspected and maintained, and covered by a competent 24/7 rescue service. By law, rescue may only be effected by the appointed 24/7 rescue service provider or by members of the Civil Protection Department. This is to ensure the safety of lift passengers.

The association said that in case of lift stoppage, lift users can help ensure their own safety as follows:

1. Do not forcibly open the lift doors as this can complicate and prolong the rescue process.

2. Do not try to climb out of the lift through the doors or through the lift roof as this can result in serious injury or death.

3. Sound the lift alarm to summon the assistance of persons in the building. By law, all lifts must be equipped with a functioning alarm siren. Make a habit of looking for the alarm button whenever you enter a lift. Knowing where to find it if you need it will help you to remain calm.

4. In lifts installed from 2002 onwards, holding down the alarm button should activate direct, two-way voice communication between persons in the lift and the rescue service.

5. If no two-way voice communication is available, use a mobile phone to call the 24/7 lift rescue service. By law, all lifts should be covered by a 24/7 rescue service. The contact number should be displayed inside the lift cabin. In default, call emergency line 112. Speak calmly and clearly. Explain that you are stuck in a lift and state the name and address of the building.

6. When speaking to rescue personnel, follow their instructions. This will help speed up the rescue process.

7. If you are outside the lift, do not attempt rescue.

Along with other safety modifications, an alarm-activated, two-way voice communication linked to 24/7 manned rescue service is mandatory in all vertical passenger lifts. This type of device is a regulatory requirement in all new installations.