7 Simple Steps To Put Elevator Safety First

Advances in architecture and building technology continue to push skyscrapers to new heights, and at the core of these buildings, quite literally, is an often unnoticed piece of equipment: the elevator. Elevators are a part of city-dwellers everyday lives, but they often go unnoticed until they don’t work perfectly. Though elevators are one of the safest forms of transportation available, here are seven basic tips for using them properly, to help ensure a safe and comfortable ride for everyone. 

In the case of an emergency, take the stairs. Elevators are complex pieces of machinery and electronics that can be affected by structural damage to a building. 

Holding the elevator door: use the button. We often try to hold the door open for a fellow passenger or ourselves by putting our hands, leg or other body parts in between the closing doors. While the door sensors are reliable, using the door-open button to open the door and hold it in the open position is a much safer approach. And if you’re rushing to catch the elevator and miss it, don’t fret. Another one may be already waiting or will be along shortly.

Be patient: do not overload. Never try to squeeze in and overload the elevator. The people inside won’t appreciate it, and neither will you if it means you trip a sensor and the elevator comes to a halt for safety reasons. Every elevator has a sign indicating its capacity in terms of the number of people and the weight it can carry. Remember another car will arrive. Be patient, be safe.

Watch your step. It is very important to watch your step every time you step in and out of the elevator. In most cases, the elevator opens at the floor perfectly level, but sometimes there is a small step up or down that could cause you to trip. Be mindful before stepping in and out, and wait till the door opens completely.

Mind the gap. There is always a small gap between the floor and the elevator, and keys, wallets, and cards dropped there often find their way into the elevator shaft. Do not attempt to retrieve any dropped item yourself. Instead, call the elevator technician for help. You can find the phone number to call on the inside of the elevator or by talking to the building management or security.

Use the alarm and intercom when trapped. If you get trapped in the elevator, press the alarm button and wait patiently for help. Today, most elevators also have an intercom installed which can be used in case of an emergency. The most important thing to remember is that the safest place to be is inside the elevator cab: Never attempt to forcibly open the door, and know that there is no concern of running out of the air. Help is on the way. Please press the button only in times of an emergency. The alarm alerts the security and maintenance team immediately.

Use your elevator etiquette

1. Push the elevator call button only once for the destination and/ or direction you want to go
2. Look or listen for the signal announcing your car’s arrival    
3. Wait for the passengers to come out first and then enter the elevator
4. Once on board, quickly press the button for your floor, and move to the back of the elevator to make room for other passengers
5. Hold children and pets firmly
6. Stand clear of the doors, keeping clothes and carry-ons away from the doors

By simply using these basic safety precautions we can prevent a lot of accidents. Follow these simple tips for a safe and smooth ride.

(Courtesy Credit – Otis Elevators India)