Few people expect an elevator to break down, but accidents and emergencies can happen anytime. That’s why your elevators need a two-way communication system that allows riders to call for help when they need it.
The ASME Elevator Code (version A17.1) introduced some big changes to elevator standards. Below, we’ll discuss a few of these changes to help you get your elevators up to code.
Authorized Personnel Requirements
ASME requirements for authorized personnel vary depending on whether your elevator travels 60 feet or more. If it does, you must employ onsite staff who can answer calls from the elevator 24/7. Outgoing calls must reach a reception desk, security office, or other onsite location. Staff must be able to call the elevator phone and reestablish communication. The system must also include a means for personnel to indicate that onsite help is available.
If your elevators travel less than 60 feet, you don’t need to have onsite staff to accept calls. However, the system must direct calls to maintenance personnel outside the building who can help in an emergency. The system must operate 24/7 to prevent riders from being stuck in the elevator after business hours.
If a rider cannot reach onsite staff, the system must redirect their call to personnel outside the building. All calls must be answered live by authorized personnel; automated answering isn’t allowed.
Elevator Emergency Phone Requirements
ASME A17.1 requires all elevators to have a two-way communication system between the elevator and authorized personnel. This system must provide video elevator monitoring of the entire car.
Your elevator emergency phone system requires a backup plan for a power outage. According to the ASME Elevator Code, its entire internet network infrastructure must run on a four-hour battery backup.
The system must include local alerts and elevator phone line status monitoring. A good elevator monitoring system, such as those from Elevate Monitoring, can identify buildings from which calls come and pinpoint the elevator’s location. We use multiple data and phone carriers to switch between during vendor outages.
ADA Requirements
ASME code revisions make elevators more accommodating to people with disabilities. Elevator emergency phones must be easy to access for those with speech, hearing, and vision impairments.
Your system must have a tactile elevator emergency button located no higher than 48 inches from the floor of the car. The system must be able to display visual messages for passengers unable to use the phone. Passengers should be able to communicate with staff by pressing a button to respond “Yes” or “No.”
Safeguard Passengers With Elevate Monitoring
When it comes to meeting the ASME Elevator Code, you need an elevator monitoring and answering service you can count on. Elevate Monitoring has years of experience working with elevator two-way communications systems, and our operators are fully certified and trained to handle elevator emergencies. You’ll never have to worry about elevator monitoring with our team on the job.
To learn more, call Elevate Monitoring at 1-877-990-9191 today.
