Modern commercial elevators are designed with numerous safety features to ensure the well-being of passengers, prevent accidents, and comply with building codes and regulations. Some of the essential safety features in these elevators include:
1. Emergency Braking System
- Function: Automatically stops the elevator in the event of a malfunction, such as cable failure or a system malfunction.
- How it works: A mechanical brake or electronic system engages to prevent the elevator from falling or moving unexpectedly.
2. Overload Sensors
- Function: Prevents the elevator from operating when it is carrying more weight than its rated capacity.
- How it works: Sensors detect the weight in the elevator and will prevent movement if the load exceeds the limit, ensuring safe operation.
3. Emergency Communication System
- Function: Allows passengers to communicate with emergency personnel in case they are trapped or need assistance.
- How it works: Elevators are equipped with an emergency intercom or two-way communication system that directly connects to security personnel or emergency services.
4. Automatic Door Reversal
- Function: Prevents passengers or objects from being trapped by the elevator doors.
- How it works: The system detects any obstruction in the doorway and reverses the door to prevent injury or damage.
5. Fire-resistant Materials and Smoke Detectors
- Function: Reduces the risk of fire hazards and ensures safe evacuation.
- How it works: Fire-resistant materials are used in the elevator shaft and components, while smoke detectors trigger the elevator to return to a safe floor if smoke is detected.
6. Pit and Overhead Safety Guards
- Function: Protects passengers from accidents involving the elevator shaft.
- How it works: Safety guards prevent access to dangerous areas, such as the elevator pit or top of the shaft, where there is a risk of falling.
7. Battery Backup Power (Emergency Power Supply)
- Function: Ensures that the elevator can continue to operate during power outages, especially for essential buildings like hospitals or emergency services.
- How it works: A battery backup system powers the elevator to return to a safe floor or stay operational until power is restored.
8. Ride Control Systems (Speed Governors)
- Function: Regulates the speed of the elevator to ensure smooth and safe travel.
- How it works: A speed governor ensures that the elevator does not exceed safe speed limits, which helps prevent accidents in the event of a malfunction.
9. Door Sensors (Infrared or Light Curtain)
- Function: Detects obstacles near the door, preventing them from closing on passengers or objects.
- How it works: Infrared sensors or light curtains across the door area automatically reverse the door motion if an obstruction is detected.
10. Earthquake Sensors (in certain regions)
- Function: Automatically stops the elevator during an earthquake to prevent further movement.
- How it works: Seismic sensors detect vibrations associated with earthquakes, triggering a stop to ensure safety.
11. Inspection and Locking Mechanism
- Function: Ensures that the elevator cannot be used during maintenance or inspection.
- How it works: A lockout system prevents the elevator from moving when the door is open or when maintenance personnel are working on it.
12. Elevator Landing Doors with Anti-Slip Surfaces
- Function: Reduces the risk of slips and falls around the elevator doors.
- How it works: The floors and landing areas around elevator doors are designed with anti-slip materials to provide better traction for passengers.
13. Elevator Cabin Interlocks
- Function: Prevents the elevator doors from opening if the cabin is not aligned with the floor.
- How it works: The interlock system ensures that the elevator doors only open when the cabin is level with the landing.
14. Regular Safety Inspections and Maintenance
- Function: Ensures the elevator is regularly checked to meet safety standards.
- How it works: Commercial elevators are required to undergo periodic inspections to ensure that all safety features are functioning properly.
These features, together with compliance to local and international safety codes, contribute to making modern commercial elevators safe for everyday use.
