The most recent edition of the ASME elevator code introduced extensive modifications to emergency elevator monitoring and communication requirements. One of the most significant changes is the introduction of mandatory video elevator monitoring. Here is what you should know about it and how to bring your elevators up to code.
Important Updates to the New Elevator Code
In its most recent edition (22nd), ASME A17.1-2019 (or CSA B44-2019 in Canada) updated its communication and monitoring requirements to align them with the Americans with Disability Act (ADA). As a result, all new elevator systems must now have:
- A display message saying that help is on the way
- A panel for two-way text communication between passengers and the elevator monitoring company
- A way for emergency personnel to start a live video feed of the elevator car
Video Elevator Monitoring: What Is It, and Why Does It Matter?
The revised ASME A17.1-2019 finally addresses the fact that standard two-way emergency phones aren’t suitable for hard-of-hearing, nonverbal, and unconscious passengers. Even if they could press the call button, they would likely struggle to communicate with emergency personnel.
This is why the new code includes a long-overdue requirement for video monitoring of elevators. Authorized staff must be able to start a live video feed of the entire elevator car from their monitoring stations if they don’t hear a verbal response from a passenger. That should enable them to better assess the situation, including whether the call was a false alarm.
Note that for elevators with a rise of 60 feet or higher, ASME A17.1-2019 requires both voice and video communication that can function with an internet connection.
ELEVATE MONITORING: Code-Compliant Professional Monitoring Solutions
At ELEVATE MONITORING, we understand that the new elevator code can cause uncertainty and confusion for elevator owners. Approximately 95% of the one million elevators in the U.S. currently don’t meet the new communication and monitoring requirements.
The good news is that if you work with us at ELEVATE MONITORING, getting your elevators up to code will be easy. All our solutions feature video elevator monitoring and a two-way text response system. We are also UL-listed and fully ASME-, IBC-, and ADA-compliant. All our operators are trained, certified, available 24/7, and exclusively U.S.-based.
Get Your Elevators Up to Code Today
Call us at ELEVATE MONITORING at 1-877-990-9191 to tell us about your needs, learn more about our video elevator monitoring solutions, and get your elevators up to code.
