Developed by Kone the self-climbing elevator system provides an alternative to exterior hoists to improve the efficiency and safety of the building’s construction.

The lift functions by using the building’s permanent shaft during the construction phase and moves higher or “jumps” in the shaft as the building gets taller.

It allows shaft construction and lift installations to continue at the higher levels while the lift is operating in the same shaft at the lower levels below a protection deck.

This innovative approach enables the lift shafts to be used to aid construction at the same time as they are fitted out with permanent cars and put into service as construction progresses.

Tony Palgrave, Construction Director for Mace on the Shard, said: “This solution is fundamental to our strategy of transporting people and materials quickly and efficiently to the top of the building and down again in the safest possible way.

“It represents our ongoing commitment to finding ever better ways to deliver this landmark project.”

Michael Williams, Managing Director of Kone UK added:  “We work hard to deliver pioneering solutions for clients and it has been a privilege to be involved with Mace on such a significant project as the Shard.

“Kone jump lifts are an innovative solution that improves people and goods flow and speeds up construction. Our team has worked closely with Mace to ensure the installation of the Jump Lifts runs smoothly and enhances the construction process.”

As principal contractor on the Shard, Mace has ensured the delivery programme accommodates the requirements of the Kone jump lifts.

The first lift has capacity for 21 people and 1,600kg in weight and will mainly be used at the Shard for site workers to get up and down the structure. It will initially serve up to level 12 but will eventually extend to level 26.

In total there will be five jump lifts, the largest of which will be equipped to transport 45 people, with a capacity of 3,500kg in weight of people and materials, serving up to level 34.

The lifts will follow the rise of the structure into the London skyline. The highest of the jump lifts will go up to level 66.

Kone is supplying and installing a total of 10 escalators and 36 lifts at the Shard, 13 of these double deck lifts including the five jump lifts.