In our last newsletter, we wrote an article entitled “Who Is Responsible for “Out of Service” Elevators?” in relation to the Elevator Reliability Act. The proposed bill put the onus on the contractors when an elevator goes down. If we look at the big picture, there are many factors that ensure an overall safe and effective elevator system. With the astronomical number of elevators, which is growing steadily every year, there are bound to be outages, downtime and, although rare, accidents. So who is accountable for all these elevators?
- Equipment manufacturers must install elevators and escalators that meet the strictest safety requirements.
- Building architects and designers must design the envelope in which these machines sit, meeting all of the fire safety, seismic, environmental and structural conditions needed for a safe system.
- Maintenance service providers must perform the monthly and/or yearly safety tests and inspections, and follow the Maintenance Contract.
- Building personnel must keep elevator cars and lobbies free of debris or other hazards.
- State, municipal or third-party inspectors provide an unbiased perspective, making sure the equipment is in safe operating condition and that the MCP is in order and being adhered to.
- Finally, the building owner has the ultimate responsibility to see that all of these players are performing their jobs properly and that the equipment is safe for its riders.
Elevator safety and maintenance is a team effort. A comprehensive, connected field service management software can help contractors, inspectors, and building owners keep their elevators moving and their riders safe.
Contact FIELDBOSS for more information.