Code compliance; it’s an integral part of the design and installation processes of elevator interiors. When an interior does not meet applicable regulations, it grounds the entire project. How can you assure customers that their elevators will be installed on time and fully functional? Just use this “cheat sheet” to help you keep the project compliant.
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Ways to Maintain Code Compliance on Each Job
Code compliance; it’s an integral part of the design and installation processes of elevator interiors. When an interior does not meet applicable regulations, it grounds the entire cab modernization. How can you assure customers that you can install their elevators on-time and have them fully functional? Just use this “cheat sheet” to help you keep the project compliant.
August 21, 2024
Code Compliance: Top Red Flags To Look For
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.
Adherence to Fire Codes
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.
Use of Glass
Mount laminated and tempered properly to withstand required elevator tests without damage. In addition, manufacturers must mark each piece with the applicable glazing standard.
ADA Standards
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:
- Mounting buttons 42 inches above the floor.
- Handrails are not required by the ADA. However, your specific jurisdiction may require them. Installers typically mount them 32 inches above the floor.
- Cabs must be large enough to allow a wheelchair to make a 360 degree turn.
Ventilation
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).
Tamper-Resistant Installation
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.
Lighting
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.
Weight Restrictions
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.
Music
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.