Are you ready to integrate elevator video monitoring into your building but don’t know where to start? If so, this article will walk you through the upgrading process.
As a property owner, you understand the need to follow the proper elevator codes while ensuring passenger safety. Video monitoring solutions help you do that and more. Read on to learn how to select and implement the right elevator monitoring solution for your needs.
1. Things To Consider Before Selecting an Elevator Monitoring System
Knowing some key factors will help guide your selection of a new elevator monitoring system. We recommend considering the following:
- Code requirements: Your building must meet each elevator code requirement to safely and legally operate. For example, you are required to have text-based and visual communication in place to ensure that passengers with hearing impairments or other disabilities can communicate with agents in an emergency.
- Cost: You likely have a budget you need to maintain when upgrading your monitoring solution. When comparing options within your price range, remember that some solutions can lower your building’s energy costs over time, ultimately saving you money.
- Building occupancy and load: If your building has a relatively high occupancy level for the number of elevators, creating high wait times, you may want to consider a smart solution to reduce downtime with features like destination dispatching and surge predictions.
- Key features: The most innovative elevator video monitoring solutions provide a range of helpful features, like remote controls, predictive maintenance insights, and more. We recommend considering which features your building needs.
2. Upgrading from an Outdated Elevator Answering Service to a Specialized Emergency Monitoring Center
In the process of selecting a new elevator monitoring system, a pivotal decision involves upgrading your elevator answering service. Traditionally, buildings have relied on various types of answering services for elevator emergencies, but modern needs demand a more specialized approach. Consider these options:
- Traditional Elevator Answering Services: Previously, buildings might have used basic office lines where staff members, not specialized in emergency response, handled elevator calls. While functional for everyday queries, this setup often falls short in actual emergencies.
- Direct 911 Connection: As an alternative, some have opted for a direct link to 911 services. This ensures a response to emergencies but can also lead to unnecessary emergency dispatches for minor incidents.
- Advanced Emergency Monitoring Center: A significant upgrade from traditional elevator answering services, companies like Elevate Monitoring specialize in emergency scenarios specifically related to elevators. Unlike general answering services, Elevate Monitoring provides a dedicated team trained exclusively in emergency response, ensuring quick, effective, and appropriate action in critical situations. This modern solution not only enhances safety but also offers efficiency and reliability, surpassing the capabilities of outdated answering services.
3. Tips for Integrating Your New Video Elevator Monitoring System
With the above factors in mind, perhaps you’re clear on the right solution for your building. If so, we recommend the following:
- Select something that covers all your needs so you don’t need to install multiple platforms
- Verify the platform’s compatibility with your elevators before purchasing
- Request installation and onboarding from the company you choose
- Train all of your staff members on the software
Ready for a Building Upgrade?
When you’re ready to upgrade your building’s elevator video monitoring, call ELEVATE MONITORING at 877-990-9191 to learn more about our highly advanced and cost-effective platform that connects passengers with our team of U.S.-based certified and trained operators.
