When you step into an elevator, you’ll likely find one design feature that’s as essential as the buttons and door: mirrors. As a leading elevator monitoring service, our team at ELEVATE Monitoring is here to answer the question: Why do elevators have mirrors in the first place?
Discover the answer below and see why reflective surfaces are among the most important elevator design features.
Mirrors Enhance Safety Within the Space
You never know who you’ll share an elevator with. While many people in this situation are cordial in their interactions, you can’t rule out the possibility of a safety threat. Placing mirrors around the interior allows you to keep an eye on others inside the space.
If you happen to spot someone with a weapon or a stolen object, you can quickly report it. Mirrors may seem unnecessary, but they’re critical in potentially dangerous situations.
Increase Elevator Passenger Comfort With Mirrors
Why do elevators have mirrors? Aesthetics aren’t the only factor behind this design choice. Scientific research suggests that the psychological effects of elevator mirrors make them a worthwhile feature.
Certain people may have a fear of elevators because they feel trapped inside the tight space. This anxiety-inducing feeling, known as claustrophobia, can trigger physical symptoms, such as:
- Sweaty palms
- Increased heart rate
- Difficulty breathing
Claustrophobia in elevators is a valid concern for many, but mirrors along the interior alter one’s visual space perception. By having reflective surfaces around the walls, you can make the space feel bigger than it really is. This helps put claustrophobic passengers at ease whenever they step inside.
Mirrors Create Distractions for Passengers
If you ask an expert about the purpose of elevator mirrors, they’ll tell you they enhance each passenger’s safety and well-being. In addition to making the tight space seem bigger and giving people a chance to see what others are doing, mirrors help distract riders.
Imagine taking the elevator up to the 20th floor of a skyscraper from the ground level. The ride could take several minutes, especially if you have to make frequent stops along the way to let others off and pick up new riders. You may quickly become bored or agitated waiting for the lift to reach your destination.
In this scenario, the ride will go by quicker if you have a mirror to look at. Use it to adjust your hair, examine your outfit, or even touch up your makeup during the ride. On lengthy rides, mirrors offer a welcome distraction to help people pass the time and make the trip more pleasant.
Make Your Lifts Safer With ELEVATE Monitoring
After reading this guide, you no longer have to wonder, “Why do elevators have mirrors?” If you’re looking to make lifts throughout your building safer, turn to ELEVATE Monitoring. We can fit each space with advanced safety features that will give you and your traveling passengers peace of mind.
To learn more about our services, submit our online request form or call 877-990-9191.
