Elevator Equipment Safety

The installation of elevators is a critical component in building construction, ensuring the safe and efficient movement of people and goods between multiple floors. However, there are instances when elevator equipment is ready for use, but the overall building construction faces delays, leading to an extended period before the final handover to the building owner or operator. During this time, it is essential to prioritize elevator safety to prevent accidents, ensure equipment longevity, and stay in compliance with regulation.

Key Safety Concerns During Delays

When an elevator is fully installed and commissioned but the building handover is delayed, several safety concerns must be addressed:

1. Unauthorized Access: Unfinished or partially finished buildings often remain accessible to construction workers, contractors, or even unauthorized personnel. An operational elevator can pose significant risks if used improperly. There is the potential for:
   • Accidents from untrained individuals using the elevator.
   • Vandalism or damage to the elevator systems.
   • Increased wear and tear from excessive or unauthorized usage.

Solution: Install access control systems that restrict the use of elevators to authorized personnel only. This can be achieved through keycard systems or temporary locks on the elevator controls OR security check may depute to restrict unauthorised entry.

2. Power Supply Stability: Elevator systems are sensitive to fluctuations in power supply, and prolonged construction work often leads to temporary power installations or generators. Unstable power can damage sensitive components of the elevator system, such as the control panel, motors, and communication systems.

Solution: Ensure the elevator is connected to a stable power source with proper grounding. Install surge protectors and uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) to safeguard electrical components.

3. Environmental Conditions: Construction sites can expose elevator systems to dust, debris, and fluctuating temperatures. These factors can interfere with the operation of key mechanical components, especially in exposed elevator shafts or machine rooms.

Solution: Protective covers should be used to shield sensitive equipment from dust and debris. The machine room should be kept clean, temperature-controlled, and well-ventilated to avoid overheating of components.

4. Routine Maintenance and Inspection: Even though the elevator may not be in regular use during construction, it is crucial to follow a strict maintenance schedule to ensure that it remains in optimal condition. Components such as brakes, cables, and doors may degrade if left unused for long periods.

Solution: Set up a maintenance schedule during the delay period. Regular inspections, cleaning, lubrication, and testing of key components should be conducted. A qualified elevator technician should inspect the equipment periodically to ensure its readiness for use.

5. Safety Signage and Barriers: Elevators in a building under construction may lead to unfinished floors, exposing users to open shafts, incomplete hallways, or other hazards. This is particularly dangerous if elevators are used by people unfamiliar with the building’s incomplete state.

Solution: Post clear signage indicating the elevator is not in service for general use and install physical barriers or safety Barrication at each floor that are not ready for access should remain locked or inaccessible via the elevator.

6. Elevator Car and Shaft Protection: The elevator car and its associated components can be damaged by ongoing construction work. Workers may use the elevator for transporting tools, heavy materials, or debris, which can harm the interior finishes, door mechanisms, or overload the system.

Solution: If the elevator must be used during construction, limit its use to lightweight material transport. Use protective padding or covering inside the elevator cab, and strictly control weight limits to prevent damage.

7. Communication Systems: If the elevator is partially operational during the building’s delay period, it is essential to ensure that the communication systems (emergency phones, intercoms, alarms) are fully functional. Incomplete installations or system failures can leave individuals stranded in an elevator during emergencies.

Solution: Regularly test the communication and alarm systems, ensuring that emergency response protocols are clear and operable.

Conclusion:

When an elevator is installed but the building faces a delayed handover, maintaining the equipment’s safety and readiness is critical. Building managers and contractors can reduce the risk of accidents and increase the lifespan of the elevator system by putting in place measures like restricting unauthorised access, ensuring environmental protections, maintaining power stability, and conducting regular maintenance checks. Additionally, clear safety signage and barriers can protect both the equipment and individuals from unnecessary harm, ensuring the elevator remains in optimal condition until the building is finally ready for handover.