On July 17, I got stuck in a lift at Lidl San Ġwann.

I understand that faults occur in lifts and other mechanical devices. My qualm is that there was no telephone connection in the lift, which is, as far as I know required by law.

Also, according to regulations, lifts should be marked “legibly and indelibly” with the “particulars of the responsible persons to be contacted in case of a problem” (LN 231/2007). These were non-existent in the lift.

I pressed the alarm button and it played a pre-recorded message saying: “Lift is out of order. Keep calm. Help is coming.” I spent 10 to 15 minutes pressing the button with no response other than the recorded message.

I also used my mobile and asked someone at home to find Lidl’s telephone number so I could call them. But apparently Lidl Malta do not provide a telephone number.

I eventually heard someone on the other side of the lift and banged on the door. I asked the person if she could inform an employee and she did straightaway, for which I thank her. She came back and eventually some employees arrived. They tried to open the lift door with a key but failed.

After being stuck in the lift for about 40 minutes they managed to break the door open.

I had managed to remain calm and it was helpful that I was alone in the lift (and had bought water). However, imagine someone who is claustrophobic, suffers from panic attacks or even an elderly person or child... it could have been a very different story.

Of course, being able to contact a company employee would have been reassuring.