Elevators are an essential part of modern life, transporting millions of people and countless tons of goods around the world each day. While elevators are generally very safe, it is important to be aware of the safety features that are in place to protect passengers in the event of an emergency.
In addition to the safety features that are in place to help your elevator run smoothly, regular elevator maintenance performed by a professional mechanic is essential for ensuring the safety of your passengers and property. A qualified elevator technician should routinely inspect your elevator safety features and perform periodic maintenance tasks to identify and address any potential problems before they cause injury or damage.
Elevator Safety Protocol
It’s paramount for each elevator company to ensure that their equipment is as safe as possible. We’ve compiled a list of the top elevator safety features in commercial elevators, including the standard emergency features in case of power outages, the safety overflow valve, the door machine linkage feature, and the chain protection measures.
Emergency Features for Power Failure
Commercial elevators come with a set of emergency features that automatically kick in whenever power outages occur. Generally, modern elevators are equipped with small power backups and will immediately travel to the nearest floor in case of a power outage. The cabs also have an alarm bell, intercom, lights, and fans that will continue working until power is restored.
Hydraulic commercial elevators have pump stations equipped with manual unloading valves. In a power outage, the unloading valve can be opened to return the main table to the ground from its middle position.
Safety Overflow Valve
Another safety feature in hydraulic commercial elevators is the safety overflow valve located in the hydraulic pump station. The valve’s role is to prevent damage to the elevator’s primary components and main structure caused by overloading.
The overflow valve opens whenever the overflow pressure is synced with the maximal load pressure and overload, stopping the elevator until the excess cargo is unloaded. After that, the safety overflow valve will close back, allowing the elevator to move.
Door Machine Linkage
The door machine linkage elevator safety feature prevents people from accidentally entering the elevator hoistway. It works by locking the elevator’s door until it arrives on the designated floor.
It’s simple in its design, practical and affordable for elevator companies to implement in their commercial elevator, making it a standard in safety features.
Chain Protection Measures
Providing double safety for passengers, the lifting chain is composed of a double chain, meaning that it has wrapped around the wire rope an extra chain to protect it in case it accidentally breaks.
Riders are double-insured with this commercial elevator safety feature. The wire rope is durable and has been calculated to withstand the loads in case the lifting chain snaps. It also needs to be maintained periodically with a coating lubricant to seal the cable from moisture in the hoistway, reducing its wear and corrosion.
Maintain Your Commercial Elevators
The equipment has built-in safety features, but that doesn’t mean that you, as an owner, should skip the periodical elevator maintenance for your commercial elevators. They may come with certain standard safety features, but a competent elevator service company must maintain them. A qualified elevator technician must ensure that every step of the maintenance process is taken care of.
Maintenance also ensures that you won’t need any extra elevator repair services in the future. If done correctly and in a timely manner, it prolongs your elevators’ lifespan and guarantees the equipment runs as safely as possible. Find the certified elevator services you need for your commercial elevators here.
Liberty Elevator Safety Standards
Liberty Elevator is commited to elevator safety, from installation through the end of the elevator life cycle. As one of the top elevator companies in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania & Florida, Liberty Elevator understands that customer safety is our #1 priority. Whether providing an elevator maintenance program, installing nonproprietary equipment, or providing a flexible agreement, Liberty Elevator provides knowledgeable recommendations for all models and vintages of elevator equipment.
For more information about elevator safety features and tips to protect your guests, contact Liberty Elevator today.
Reference Article: Why is periodic elevator maintenance important?
Reference Article: Why hire IUEC elevator mechanics for installations, modernizations, and maintenance?