Elevator 101 – Knowledge is Control

(First in a series) By Barry Robbins

This article fist appeared in The Communicator, Spring 2023 Edition. 

Elevators remain a mystery to property owners and managers even after years of operation. Elevators are elaborate systems that require specialized knowledge and expertise to understand and maintain properly. Their mechanics involve electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic systems requiring regular inspection, maintenance, and repair.

These complex machines rely on various components to function properly. Each component has a specific role to play in the operation of the elevator; a failure in any one component can result in serious safety concerns. Understanding the different types of elevator components can help building owners and property managers to better manage and maintain their elevators and ensure the safety and well-being of building occupants. In the articles to come, we will provide an "Elevator 101" primary education of these various components such as:

Cab Components: The cab is part of the elevator that transports passengers or goods between floors. It comprises a car, elevator shaft, and components, including the cab shell, interior, and door.

Drive Components: The drive components of an elevator are responsible for the movement of the cab. This includes the electric motor, motor controller, and drive sheave, which work together to move the elevator cab up and down the shaft.

Safety Components: Elevator safety components are designed to ensure the safety of passengers and goods during elevator operation. Safety components include the overspeed governor, safety gear, and buffer. These components work together to prevent the elevator cab from falling or moving too quickly and to provide a safe and smooth ride for passengers and goods.

Control Components: Elevator control components are responsible for the operation of the elevator. These include the elevator controller, which manages the movement of the elevator cab and communicates with the elevator buttons and displays, and the selector, which determines the direction and destination of the elevator cab.

Door Components: Elevator door components are responsible for the opening and closing of the elevator doors. These include the door operator, which controls the movement of the doors; and the door lock, which ensures that the doors are securely closed during elevator operation.

Monitoring Components: Elevator monitoring components are responsible for monitoring the performance and safety of the elevator. These include the elevator call system, which allows passengers to call the elevator from different floors; and the elevator alarm, which alerts building occupants and emergency services in the event of an emergency.

Elevators are typically maintained and serviced by specialized contractors with expertise in elevator maintenance and repair. Working with a qualified elevator contractor is important to ensure that all components are properly maintained and serviced. This can make it challenging for property owners and managers to fully understand the inner workings of elevators.

Elevators are subject to various regulations and safety standards that must be followed to ensure they operate safely and efficiently. These regulations and safety standards can change, making it difficult for property owners and managers to keep up with the latest requirements.

In addition to components, we’ll cover many topics that will provide owners, associations, and managers with a greater understanding of issues such as:

Elevators and Sick Building Syndrome: These vital component of modern buildings have been linked to sick building syndrome (SBS), a condition affecting building occupants’ health and well-being. SBS is a phenomenon that occurs when people experience a range of symptoms related to their time spent in a building. Various factors, including poor indoor air quality, inadequate ventilation, and exposure to chemicals and pollutants, can cause SBS.

Elevator Maintenance Contracts - Losing Control: Elevator maintenance is a crucial aspect of building management. Contracts are designed to assure property managers and building owners that their elevators will be serviced and maintained promptly and professionally. However, these contracts can also result in a loss of control for building owners and property managers.

Elevator Inspections and Civil Liabilities: To avoid the potential legal and financial consequences of not having an up-to-date inspection, building owners and property managers should work closely with alternative state-qualified elevator inspectors to ensure that all required inspections are conducted regularly. They should also maintain detailed records of all inspections and necessary repairs and promptly address any issues identified during inspections.

Is an elevator a financial asset or a liability? Outdated elevators can result in reduced property values. In today’s competitive real estate market, buildings with modern and well-maintained elevators are seen as more desirable by potential tenants and buyers. On the other hand, buildings with outdated elevators may be viewed as less valuable and may not command as high a sale or rental price.

Elevator Emergency Phones Analog vs. Cellular: Traditional analog phone lines have long been the standard for elevator emergency phone lines. However, as the world has become increasingly connected, cellular technology is a more reliable and cost-effective option. Cellular technology provides several advantages over traditional analog phone lines, including better connectivity, more reliable service, and increased flexibility.

"Elevator 101" knowledge is essential for the association’s board of directors and property managers who want to regain control of their elevators. By gaining a basic understanding of elevator mechanics, safety, and maintenance requirements, boards of directors and property managers can identify red flags on service repair invoices and make informed decisions about maintenance and repairs. This knowledge leads to a proactive approach to elevator management and helps when the time comes to modernize the elevator. Board members and property managers can ensure that their elevators are assets, not liabilities, and help provide safe and efficient transportation for building occupants.

Barry Robbins has gained knowledge and experience from seasoned elevator professionals from coast to coast. He has a vast background as the CEO of SL777 Operations, an elevator mediation service and holder of several elevator patents mandated by Cal-OSHA and ASME. He also owns a design-build construction company, and this background provides a unique understanding of elevators, fire and life safety, and building construction.