When considering whether to have elevators in an apartment building, it’s important to understand the relevant requirements. All types of elevators must adhere to strict standards, even in a residential apartment building, to ensure proper safety and reliability of operation.
You may even need video and text communication capabilities inside the new elevator. Such options help in an emergency and with security. Ensure your compliance by relying on an elevator phone system by ELEVATE Monitoring.
Following Elevator Codes for Apartments
Nearly all elevators must follow the standards set by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). This governing body develops safety standards for elevators that govern things like the following:
- Operation
- Design
- Safety testing
- Maintenance
- Installation
These standards help protect the people in the apartment using the elevator regularly. They also ensure that those installing and servicing the elevator are safe while they work on these devices.
Understanding ASME Code A17.1
The best way to understand the apartment building elevator requirements is to familiarize yourself with the ASME Elevator Code, specifically ASME A17.1, which sets the standard for commercial and residential elevators. All building owners, inspectors, and contractors must follow it.
A recent revision to A17.1 stipulates that elevators must now have video capabilities. This allows security personnel and first responders to see what is happening in the elevator car during an emergency. They can make an informed decision on how to respond before arriving on the scene.
Additionally, A17.1 requires the ability to carry two-way communication and messages. If someone who is hearing impaired or nonverbal gets trapped in an elevator, such capabilities allow them to communicate with first responders. First responders can also send text messages in response to people in the elevator with updates on the situation.
When Does a Building Need an Elevator?
The size and configuration of the apartment building typically determine whether an elevator is required to provide public transportation to the upper floors.
Local regulations may have different requirements, but generally, any apartment building of three or more stories with interior entrances needs an elevator.
Another factor is the handicap accessibility for the apartment building. For larger apartments, at least 5% of the units often must be handicap accessible. If the building’s design cannot accommodate this level of accessibility on the ground floor, it needs elevator access.
Some local regulations require that any multi-story building with more than 3,000 square feet of space in the interior must have an elevator.
Even in areas where local building codes don’t require an elevator for a tall apartment building, contractors may choose to include one as a building amenity.
Understanding Options for Apartment Building Elevator Requirements
You can trust ELEVATE Monitoring to provide advice on apartment building elevator requirements and help maintain consistent elevator performance.
Our products keep you compliant by taking advantage of the latest technologies. We also have the expertise, certification, and training to keep your elevators in line with the ASME Elevator Code. To learn more, call ELEVATE Monitoring today at 877-990-9191.
