How Often Should Elevators Be Inspected?
Every year, around 17,000 people in the United States suffer serious injuries related to elevators and escalators. Part of this is due to inadequate inspection and maintenance programs.
A properly functioning elevator is good for business. A poorly functioning or dangerous vertical transportation system is not. Commercial property managers have the difficult task of implementing adequate elevator inspection and maintenance plans.
How often should elevators be inspected? Keep reading to learn more.
Elevator Inspection Rules
In the United States, the frequency of elevator inspections is determined by the state or local government. The U.S. Federal Government does not regulate elevator inspections, but the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) provides guidelines for states to follow.
In addition to annual inspections, many states also require that elevators undergo additional testing and maintenance, such as load testing, safety device testing, and emergency operation testing. These tests are designed to ensure that the elevator’s safety features are functioning properly and that the elevator can be safely evacuated in case of an emergency.
What’s Involved in an Elevator Inspection
Elevator inspections involve a thorough examination of the elevator’s mechanical, electrical, and safety components to ensure that the elevator is operating safely and efficiently. The specific components that are inspected will vary depending on the type of elevator and the jurisdiction in which it is located.
Any professional inspecting an elevator should include a thorough examination of the elevator’s mechanical, electrical, and safety components. Additionally, the inspector should also perform a load test, door test, and run the elevator through its full range of motion to check for any issues.
A qualified inspector should examine the elevator’s cables, pulleys, and brakes to ensure they are in good working condition and free of wear and tear. They should also check the elevator’s electrical wiring, controls, and power supply to ensure they are in good working condition and free of defects. Finally, the inspector should check the elevator’s safety devices, such as emergency brakes, safety edges, and alarms, to ensure they are functioning properly.
Depending on the jurisdiction and type of elevator, additional tests such as safety device testing or emergency operation testing may be required.
How Often Should Elevators Be Inspected?
The ASME recommends that elevators be inspected at least once a year by a qualified inspector. Most states follow this guideline.
However, in high-traffic buildings or buildings with critical safety concerns, such as hospitals and schools, elevators may need to be inspected more frequently. For example, some states require that elevators in hospitals be inspected every six months.
Arranging a Professional Inspection
How often should elevators be inspected? Most times, it’s once a year minimum. Remember, regular inspections can help to identify and address any potential problems before they become serious issues, they can help to prevent elevator breakdowns and reduce the risk of accidents and injuries, and they can help to prolong the life of the elevator and reduce the need for costly repairs in the future.
At Action Elevator, we care more about quality and customer satisfaction than profit. Do not hesitate to contact us and learn more about our preventative maintenance contracts and Third Party QEI inspection reports.