August 21, 2024
Trained elevator mechanics know what to look for and can spot red flags that can keep customers’ interiors from passing elevator safety inspections. The checklist below includes the top elevator code compliance issues you should be on the lookout for.
While some states and jurisdictions (e.g. Nevada, California, and NYC) have stricter elevator codes than others, most cities and states use ASME A17.1 Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators.
One of the requirements is that inspectors must test all combustible materials for their end-use configuration. For instance, it is not sufficient to test a piece of laminate, particle board, and adhesive individually. You must assemble and test the entire panel, as a unit, before it complies with code.
Mount laminated and tempered properly to withstand required elevator tests without damage. In addition, manufacturers must mark each piece with the applicable glazing standard.
Elevator interiors must comply with American with Disabilities Act requirements if the building is more than three stories tall or larger than 3,000 square feet per story.
A few of ADA’s regulations include:
ASME A17.1 requires elevators to have natural ventilation that equals 3.5% of the floor area. For example, in a typical 2,500 pound-capacity elevator, that would be 142 square inches. Divide the ventilation equally between floor and ceiling (for example, a ceiling fan opening and toe kick ventilation).
Common tools should not be able to remove the elevator panels. Ensure that any panels covering openings greater than 0.5 inches, with straight-through passages, cannot be removed from the inside of the cab.
Elevator interiors must have at least two bulbs and passenger elevators need a minimum illumination of 50 lux, or five foot candles. Proper mounting is essential to avoid accidental breakage. Lights must be sturdy enough to go through the required elevator tests without them being damaged or jarred loose.
When you remove the interior of an elevator, it has to weigh the same as the old interior or be within 5%. Staying within that slim margin is critical.
All passenger elevators are required to play the soothing sounds of elevator music.
Okay, you got us. Elevator cabs don’t need music to be code compliant. We just wanted to make sure you were paying attention!
Because of these regulations, which can and do fill volumes, it’s vital that a certified elevator mechanic – not a maintenance person – completes every installation. It requires an entirely different set of skills and know-how. If the interior fails to comply with regulations, the project shuts down, and this can impact the entire building’s functionality. Not to mention the budget and timeline.
Elevator and building code compliance is complex, but non-negotiable. Partnering with an experienced interior company ensures that your customers’ elevators meet all applicable standards – which to them means completing projects safely, on-time, and on-budget. Fortunately, with the right partner, getting that compliant “elevator certificate” can be simple. If they’ll do the heavy lifting, you can get back to focusing on the rest of your project and rest assured that the final results will be up to code.