Ways to Maintain Code Compliance on Each Job

Trained elevator mechanics know what to look for and can spot red flags that can keep customers’ interiors from passing inspection. The list 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) are stricter than others, most cities and states use ASME A17.1 Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators.

One of the requirements is that all combustible materials be tested in their end-use configuration. For instance, it is not sufficient to test a piece of laminate, particle board, and adhesive individually. The entire panel will also have to be assembled and tested, as a unit, before it complies with code.

Use of Glass

Both laminated and tempered glass need to be mounted properly to withstand required elevator tests without damage. Each piece also needs to be marked with the applicable glazing standard.

ADA Requirements

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:

• Buttons must be mounted at 42 inches above the floor.
• Handrails are not required by the ADA, but may be by your specific jurisdiction. They are typically mounted nominally 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. It must be equally divided between floor and ceiling (for example, a ceiling fan opening and toe kick ventilation).

Tamper-Resistant Installation

Panels cannot be removed with common tools. Panels that cover openings greater than 0.5 inches, with straight-through passages, cannot be removable from inside 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, and the lights need to withstand required elevator tests without being damaged or jarred loose.

Weight Issues

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. (Just wanted to make sure you were paying attention!)