The elevator comes to a sudden, grinding halt, and you notice there’s an emergency alarm button. You press it, and now what happens?
If you own or operate a building with elevators in it, it’s important to know how this critical safety feature works and what will happen if a passenger needs to use it. So, what does the alarm button do in an elevator?
At ELEVATE Monitoring, we’ve pioneered the leading elevator monitoring system to ensure seamless communication in an emergency. Below, our team explains what happens when someone presses the elevator alarm button.
How Does the Emergency Button Work in an Elevator?
The emergency alarm button is a critical safety feature designed to support passengers during unexpected elevator situations. It’s built to be highly visible, easy to locate, and accessible to all users, including those with visual or physical impairments.
Behind the scenes, the alarm button is integrated into the elevator control panel and communication system. When activated, it sends a signal to onboard equipment that initiates an emergency communication sequence. This system is designed to function independently from other building services, often using dedicated wiring, cellular technology, and backup power.
What Do Emergency Buttons Do When Pressed?
So, what does the alarm button do in an elevator?
When pressed, it immediately triggers a response designed to connect passengers with help. The button activates the elevator’s two-way communication system, allowing trapped or distressed passengers to speak directly with trained personnel at a monitoring center or building security office. Alarm signal activation will also usually trigger an audible tone or light to help passengers confirm that the alert has been sent and that the call is active.
The immediate two-way connection allows responders to assess the situation in real time and determine the appropriate next steps, whether that involves dispatching maintenance technicians, contacting emergency services, or coordinating with on-site staff. Passengers can speak with personnel through an elevator intercom, and staff from the building monitoring center can view them through the elevator’s video system. The alarms are built with backup power and independent communication pathways, ensuring they continue to function even during power outages or mechanical failures.
Who Answers the Emergency Communication System?
As the elevator market continues to expand, so does the need for reliable, around-the-clock emergency response abilities. Today, many buildings rely on trained, third-party elevator monitoring and answering services rather than in-house staff. These dedicated professionals specialize in elevator emergencies, understand safety protocols, and can quickly assess situations to coordinate help.
In-house teams may also answer emergency calls, though they may have limited knowledge of elevator functionality or proper response protocols to emergency situations. Comprehensive monitoring services provide 24/7 availability, consistent response times, and documented compliance with safety regulations, ensuring passengers are never left without assistance.
Do Your Elevators Need an Upgrade?
What does the alarm button do in an elevator? It immediately connects passengers to real-time, trained help. If you’re interested in upgrading your elevator call button, get in touch with ELEVATE Monitoring by calling 877-990-9191.
