Americans today don’t remember a time without elevators. They’re a ubiquitous convenience that improves a building’s accessibility and speeds up a person’s trip to the top floor. But you may have never stopped to consider how truly incredible these systems are.
The following elevator facts can help you gain a newfound appreciation and quash any myths or rumors you might have heard. For top-quality elevator monitoring services, turn to ELEVATE Monitoring.
1. The Concept of Elevators Dates Back Thousands of Years
Elevators as we know them are a modern amenity, but their history dates back to Ancient Rome. The Romans used basic “elevators” powered by animals, humans, or water wheels to lift equipment and goods. Archimedes, a Greek engineer, reportedly built the first one in 236 B.C.
2. There Are Approximately 900,000 Elevators in the U.S.
While the first modern elevator was designed in 1874, a century and a half later, there are now more than 900,000 of these systems throughout the U.S. About that many were sold around the world in 2012 alone.
3. The Fastest Elevator Is in the Shanghai Tower
While the average elevator travels just a few miles per hour, the fastest one, located in the Shanghai Tower, moves at 46 miles per hour. This elevator fact makes sense, as this skyscraper is the tallest building in China. Visitors can reach the 118th-floor observation deck in just 55 seconds.
4. Elevator Music Has a Purpose
Elevator music has developed a reputation for being calming and somewhat simple. These qualities have a purpose, as the initial goal of these relaxing tunes was to help riders stay calm when using this new, somewhat intimidating invention.
5. People Take Billions of Elevator Rides in the U.S. Annually
As many as 18 billion elevator trips happen each year in the U.S. alone. This averages out to about 570 trips per second. At any given time, hundreds of people are using these systems all across the country, indicating their necessity in the modern day.
6. Close-Door Buttons Are Often Non-Functional
Most elevators come equipped with close-door buttons that theoretically enable patrons to shut the doors manually. In reality, many of these buttons are non-functional. They simply give patrons the illusion of control.
7. Emergency Communication Systems Are the Law
To ensure the safety of all patrons, elevator safety systems are now required in the U.S. Every car must be equipped with a two-way communication system that has 24/7 availability. Some jurisdictions also require this system to have hands-free operation so that patrons can call for help if they are injured.
Let Us Improve the Safety of Your Elevator System
While many elevator myths still circulate, particularly among those who fear these systems, modern safety features promote a safe, reliable ride for patrons. These elevator facts can help you dispel myths and educate your visitors about these systems.
At ELEVATE Monitoring, we can boost your system’s safety with two-way video monitoring technology. Call us today at 877-990-9191 to learn more about our products.
