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Elevator Incidents
August 28, 2024Whenever you go into a high-rise building whether a hotel, office building, hospital, or retail you will likely take an elevator, it just cannot be avoided, elevators have become an indispensable part of our daily lives. They deliver us effortlessly between floors, saving time and energy to our destination. But what happens when an elevator fails, leaving us trapped in a metal box suspended between floors? Recent events involving the Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert and his teammates have brought this scenario into sharp focus, prompting us to examine not only the psychological impact of such incidents but also the broader implications for elevator safety and our societal response to these risks.
The Chargers’ Elevator Ordeal: A Case Study
On a Friday night in Dallas, “11 or 12” Chargers players, including star quarterback Justin Herbert, found themselves in a harrowing situation when their hotel elevator became stuck. For two hours, these athletes – accustomed to high-pressure situations on the field – faced a different kind of challenge, trapped in a confined space with temperatures rising. This could be a tight spot.
Head coach Jim Harbaugh, who narrowly missed being part of the group, described the scene as the players emerged: “As each person came off the elevator, sweating and some had the shirt off. Justin Herbert, his hair was a little wet. But his shirt was completely dry. That was another thing that blew me away.”
Harbaugh’s perspective on the incident is telling: “You get in those situations, and it’s a test of wills. I was proud of each of the guys and the two women that were on that elevator. That’s a win. You feel good about yourself. You were challenged. It was a test of will, and you pull it down, or pull it in.”
This categorizing this experience as a “win” and a “test of will” provides an intriguing insight into how we, as a society, often normalize and even glorify potentially dangerous situations. Elevators are built with several safety mechanisms so no one gets hurt but this does not mean that people cannot get stuck or that the elevator is receiving proper maintenance.
The Psychology of Elevator Entrapment
Being stuck in an elevator can trigger a range of psychological responses. For many, the experience activates primal fears of confinement, abandonment, claustrophobia and loss of control. The uncertainty of the situation – not knowing how long the ordeal will last or whether help is on the way – can exacerbate anxiety and panic.
However, humans are remarkably adaptable creatures. In group situations like the Chargers experienced, social dynamics come into play. Leadership emerges, and individuals often band together, providing mutual support and reassurance. This social cohesion can significantly mitigate the psychological impact of the experience forgetting the fact that you are trapped in close quarters.
Moreover, our ability to rationalize and contextualize experiences plays a crucial role. As Harbaugh’s comments illustrate, reframing the ordeal as a challenge to be overcome or a story to be shared later can help individuals cope with the immediate stress and potentially even view the experience in a positive light afterward. Having faith and knowing you will be released by the team of experts shortly minimizes the anxiety.
The Paradox of Elevator Safety
Statistically, elevators are one of the safest forms of transportation. According to the National Elevator Industry, Inc., U.S. elevators make 18 billion passenger trips per year. Accidents do happen and it is not known how many or to what extent. You can usually find several incidents on YouTube however there is not central database.
Yet, the fear of elevator malfunction persists in the public consciousness. This fear is not entirely irrational – being trapped in a small space, potentially for hours, is a stressful thought. The incident with the Chargers players, while resolved safely, underscores that even in high-end hotels with presumably well-maintained facilities, such events can occur. The elevator industry does not judge, everyone is open to elevator issues.
The Normalization of Risk
Perhaps the most concerning aspect of our relationship with elevators is the normalization of risk. Harbaugh’s framing of the incident as a “win” and a test of character, while understandable from a team-building perspective, potentially undermines the seriousness of the situation.
This attitude reflects a broader acceptance of certain risks as part of daily life. We continue to use elevators despite knowing that malfunctions can occur because the convenience they offer outweighs the perceived risk. This cost-benefit analysis is performed subconsciously every time we step into an elevator. The fact that we were trapped in an elevator or experienced an elevator issue like misleveling or load noises does not deter us from getting on to the next one.
The Need for Enhanced Safety Measures and Public Awareness
While the safety record of elevators is commendable, incidents like the one in Dallas highlight the need for ongoing vigilance and improvement in elevator safety protocols. Key areas for focus include:
1. Regular Maintenance
Ensuring that all elevators undergo frequent, thorough checks to prevent malfunctions. An elevator should at a bare minimum have quarterly maintenance and, in most cases, monthly maintenance by an elevator service provider. Elevator maintenance is the backbone of a well-maintained elevator.
2. Enhanced Emergency Response
ensuring there is a plan if there is an entrapment. The industry standard is 30 minutes. Improving communication within elevators and ensuring rapid response times from emergency services is key before there is an issue.
3. Public Education
Providing clear information on what to do in case of elevator entrapment, including how to use emergency features and how to stay calm. There is a phone or a communication device in place if there is an entrapment or major elevator issue.
4. Psychological Support
Recognizing that being trapped in an elevator can be a traumatic experience and offering appropriate support to those affected. The mere excitement of being free might not be enough for some people.
5. Transparency
Building managers should be more open about safety records and incident reports to build public trust. The public takes for granted that the elevators are an acceptable riding requirement when in essence they have been having issues with the elevators for months. Only the stakeholders of the building really know the situation of the elevators.
Balancing Convenience and Safety
The incident involving Justin Herbert and his teammates serves as a reminder of the unexpected challenges we can face in our modern, technology-dependent world. While it’s admirable that the players handled the situation with resilience, we must be cautious about glorifying such experiences or accepting them as inevitable.
As a society, we cannot forget the convenience that elevators provide and maintaining a healthy respect for the potential risks they pose. This means supporting stringent safety standards, demanding transparency from manufacturers and building managers, and being prepared for emergencies. Unfortunately, the current elevator industry requires the general public to be aware. Elevator consulting firms are in business to protect building owners and their clients.
Ultimately, while we may continue to step into elevators with confidence, we should do so with awareness – not fear, but informed caution. By understanding the psychology behind our acceptance of such risks and pushing for continual improvements in safety measures, we can ensure that our vertical journeys remain as safe as they are convenient.
In the words of Jim Harbaugh, getting stuck in an elevator may be a “test of wills,” but it’s a test we should strive to make increasingly rare through vigilance, preparation, and unwavering commitment to safety. [...]
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October 30, 2023Elevator consultant services have been considered a niche market within the broader field of building management and maintenance. Elevators are complex mechanical systems that require specialized knowledge and expertise to ensure their proper operation, safety, and efficiency. Elevator consulting services play a critical role in ensuring the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of elevator systems.
The Essential Role of Elevator Consultants in Building Management
Elevator consultants possess a wealth of knowledge and expertise, which they leverage to help building owners and facilities managers effectively manage their elevator systems. As a result, many building owners and facilities managers turn to elevator consultants for guidance and assistance.
Elevator consultants provide valuable services by offering expert advice, assessing elevator performance, conducting audits and inspections, and developing tailored maintenance plans. They possess in-depth knowledge of elevator codes, standards, regulations, and industry best practices. Their role is to help building owners and facilities managers effectively manage their elevator systems to maximize performance, improve passenger experience, and ensure compliance with safety requirements.
Key Areas Where Elevator Consulting Adds Value
Some areas where elevator consulting services can provide valuable assistance include:
1. Preventive Maintenance: By conducting regular maintenance inspections, elevator consultants can identify potential problems before they arise, helping to prevent downtime and safety concerns.
2. System Upgrades and Modernization: Elevator consultants can provide guidance regarding system upgrades, modernization, and replacement. These services can help to improve system reliability, energy efficiency, and passenger experience.
3. Code Compliance: Elevator consultants maintain up-to-date knowledge regarding elevator codes, standards, and regulations, ensuring that building owners and facilities managers are in compliance with requirements.
4. Performance Optimization: Elevator consultants can assess elevator performance and make recommendations to optimize system operation, improving efficiency and reducing operating costs.
5. Troubleshooting and Issue Resolution: In the event of an elevator system issue, consultants can provide expert technical assistance to identify the root cause and develop appropriate solutions.
Elevator consulting services offer myriad benefits to building owners and facilities managers. These professionals provide valuable expertise and guidance, helping to ensure that elevator systems meet safety standards, operate efficiently, and provide a safe and comfortable passenger experience.
The Specialized Expertise of Elevator Consulting Services
The niche aspect of elevator consultant services lies in the specialized nature of their work. Elevator consultants possess detailed knowledge about elevator technology, maintenance strategies, and the latest industry trends. This level of expertise allows them to offer tailored solutions, troubleshoot complex issues, and provide guidance on elevator modernization or upgrades. Their specialized skills and knowledge set them apart in the market, making elevator consultant services a niche area of expertise.
Engaging the services of an elevator consultant can be highly beneficial for building owners and facilities managers who want to optimize elevator performance, minimize downtime, and efficiently manage their elevator systems. By leveraging the expertise of elevator consultants, stakeholders in the industry can make informed decisions and ensure that their elevator systems are safe, reliable, and cost-effective.
An elevator consulting firm can be considered a niche market due to the specialized knowledge and expertise it provides, focusing specifically on elevators and their management within buildings. [...]
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October 27, 2023Commercial real estate property managers often have concerns related to elevators. Here are some specific ways in which an elevator consultant can help alleviate their workloads:
1. Expertise and Industry Knowledge: Elevator consultants are equipped with in-depth knowledge of elevator systems, regulations, and best practices. They can provide property managers and investors with expert guidance on elevator-related matters, saving them time and effort in researching and understanding complex elevator industry standards.
2. Comprehensive Evaluations and Assessments: Elevator consultants can conduct comprehensive assessments of existing elevator systems in commercial properties. By analyzing factors such as performance, safety, code compliance, and maintenance history, consultants can identify areas of improvement and provide recommendations for cost-effective upgrades or modernizations.
3. Project Management and Oversight: When it comes to elevator installations, repairs, or modernizations, managing the project can be time-consuming and overwhelming for property managers. Elevator consultants can take on the role of project managers, overseeing the entire process from start to finish. This includes coordinating with contractors, reviewing bids, ensuring timelines are met, and conducting quality control inspections.
4. Code Compliance Assurance: Elevator consultants stay up-to-date with the latest elevator codes and regulations. They can assist property managers and investors in navigating complex code requirements, ensuring that elevators are compliant with local, state, and national standards. This helps avoid potential legal and safety issues and prevents costly fines or penalties.
5. Vendor Management and Negotiations: Dealing with multiple elevator service providers, contractors, and suppliers can be challenging and time-consuming for property managers. An elevator consultant can handle vendor management, including contract negotiations, service level agreements, and cost control. This allows property managers to focus on their core responsibilities while having an expert overseeing their elevator-related contracts and relationships.
6. Performance Monitoring and Reporting: Elevator consultants can implement monitoring systems that track elevator performance, including downtime, repair history, and energy consumption. They can generate periodic reports and analytics that provide property managers and investors with valuable insights into elevator efficiency, potential maintenance issues, and recommendations for optimization. This helps streamline decision-making processes and ensures elevators are functioning optimally.
By partnering with an elevator consultant, commercial real estate property managers can offload many elevator-related responsibilities and gain access to specialized expertise, ultimately saving time and effort while ensuring a reliable and efficient elevator system in their buildings. [...]
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October 20, 2023Elevators are a unique mechanical component of a building. As vital parts of a building, elevators, escalators, lifts, and dumbwaiters provide efficient vertical transportation for people and goods. However, like any mechanical system elevators are not immune to problems, and are sometimes referred to as “the mystic” of the building since this area requires an elevator specialist.
Understanding common elevator issues and knowing how to address them can help to ensure their reliable operation. Being aware of common elevator problems, and having the insight as to how an issue may be addressed is very important, and a building should never try to do the job of an elevator expert.
1. Irregular Door Functioning
One of the most common elevator problems is door issues that hinder the proper functioning of the equipment. Elevator doors are constantly moving, and at times may incur items being run into them, or they may be obstructed to hold the doors open. Door issues can manifest in various ways, such as the doors closing too slowly, not closing at all, or abruptly reopening.
Regular maintenance involving the assessments and adjustments of door components can help resolve door-related dilemmas. Technicians can check door sensors, guides, and rollers for proper alignment and lubrication, and cleaning the door tracks to ensure that they are free from obstructions can also improve the performance of the doors. The sills of the doors must also be kept clean and free of damage and debris to help eliminate some door issues as well.
2. Elevator Jerking or Shaking
It can be alarming and discomforting when passengers experience an elevator that jerks or shakes during operation, and this may occur due to various reasons – such as misalignment, worn-out components, or issues with the control system. When this happens, elevator technicians should be brought in to evaluate and identify the root cause of the jerking or shaking. While there, the technician will survey the elevator system, the safety devices, the controller, and other components to uncover any abnormalities. Prompt repairs, adjustments, or component replacements can resolve these issues and will restore smooth and comfortable rides. The elevator technician will then record the issues into the building’s record-keeping system which is required by ASME A17.1.
3. Unusual Noises
Elevators should operate quietly and smoothly, so strange or excessive noises coming from them can be a cause for concern. Unusual noises may be the result of mechanical problems, loose components, or worn-out parts.
As part of their service call, elevator technicians should conduct a thorough examination of the elevator machinery – including the motor, pulleys, gears, cables, and others, and should identify any loose or damaged parts, then perform the necessary maintenance, repairs,, or replacements. Regular lubrication of moving parts can also minimize noise generation, and the elevator technician should be able to resolve the issue. In the event that the issue does not get resolved, the building may utilize the service of an elevator consultant to help.
4. Slow or Inconsistent Operation
Elevators should respond promptly and consistently to commands of the system, and slow or inconsistent operation can lead to extended wait times and passenger dissatisfaction, as well as a distorted perception of safety by any riders.
Elevator technicians will assess the responsiveness of the elevator and check the motor, control system, and sensors. Adjustments, lubrication, or repairs may be required to optimize the elevator’s performance, and if the equipment is past its life cycle – upgrading outdated systems or modernizing the elevator can improve its speed and efficiency.
5. Electrical Issues
Electrical issues such as power fluctuations, tripping circuit breakers, or faulty wiring can cause elevator malfunctions that can disrupt elevator operations and pose safety risks.
Licensed electricians with elevator expertise can troubleshoot in conjunction with elevator technicians to diagnose and address any electrical problems by analyzing all electrical connections, assessing the power supply stability, and troubleshooting any other issues that may be occurring. These professionals can provide valuable guidance in order to minimize electrical problems.
The examples above are just a few common elevator problems that may occur. Being aware of these issues and their solutions can aide building owners, facilities managers, and occupants in addressing such issues promptly to maintain elevator reliability. Routine maintenance, along with proactive troubleshooting and repairs, is crucial in preventing major malfunctions and minimizing downtime. With the proper maintenance, elevators, escalators, dumbwaiters, and lifts can last their full lifecycle. Paying close attention and keeping detailed records will help solve and eliminate these common elevator problems. If these issues remain unsolved, an elevator consulting firm can guide the building personnel to the appropriate resolutions.
Remember, for complex elevator issues, it is always best to consult professional elevator technicians or an elevator consultant. These trained professionals have the knowledge and experience to diagnose and resolve intricate problems, ensuring the safe and efficient operation of elevators, escalators, lifts, and dumbwaiters in your building. [...]
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October 4, 2022Hurricane Ian devastated Florida. Since elevators can be critical for people to gain access to their homes, hospitals, and/or offices, building personnel will be tasked with more serious challenges than ever and are inundated with critical work.
What are the Impact of Hurricane Ian on Elevators
Hurricane Ian damaged commercial elevators and escalators at office buildings, hotels, hospitals, airports, schools, condominiums, apartment complexes, etc. Elevator damage from hurricanes and other severe weather patterns can leave people with many questions.
Consulting with an Elevator Professional
There are so many scenarios buildings are faced with it is impossible to cover them all. If the building’s elevators and/or escalators were damaged by severe weather, the building facilities department should consult with an elevator consultant to advise your facilities team on your elevator situation. Whatever exterior elements your building may have endured, arming yourself with a qualified trusted professional will protect your assets and reduce your elevator costs.
Call The Elevator Consultants at 727.940.2012 with questions and a free consultation. [...]
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CHICAGO—May 14, 2019—The Elevator Consultants (TEC), a leading global elevator consulting firm, has invited commentary from visitors, tenants, managers and building owners where they have experienced issues related to elevators, escalators, or lifts. If you have been stuck or hurt by an elevator or experienced significant delays and frustrations due to inoperative equipment, TEC wants to hear from you.
This call for comment is in response to a rash of elevator safety incidents across the country, highlighting the need for greater transparency and oversight of elevator maintenance.
People working and living in buildings with elevators constantly deal with problems such as equipment running too slow, making noise, doors opening and closing incorrectly, not levelling, getting stuck or being out of service. Whether the issues are caused by minor or systemic problems, they can cause major disruption in the daily lives of riders. Further, riders often have no recourse when they experience these frustrations.
TEC wants to invite people to share their stories, bringing attention to an often-overlooked issue that nonetheless affects thousands of people every day. Anyone who has been on an elevator, escalator or lift and experienced an issue let us know. You are entitled to have a safe and comfortable experience. Tell us about your experience: https://theelevatorconsultant.com/share-your-elevator-incident-and-or-elevator-accident
TEC offers the following pieces of advice to anyone who is concerned about the safety or operability of an elevator, escalator, or lift in a building:
● If you experience a problem, contact the building owner or property manager to document the details.
● If it happens often, report every occurrence. It will be helpful to know the frequency of the problem, and can encourage a quick resolution.
● If your building does not already use an elevator consultant or have an elevator monitoring software encourage them as this is the 21st century and there are technologies which can assistant a building.
The preventative maintenance that would reduce the rate of these incidents and extend the life of the equipment is very often not happening as contracted because neither buildings nor their tenants have the necessary oversight. Elevator monitoring technology like TEC’s ElevatorApp can help buildings to ensure they are receiving the maintenance they pay for, keeping tenants’ lives running smoothly.
Find out how The Elevator Consultants and the ElevatorApp can help keep your buildings out of these stories, visit www.theelevatorconsultant.com.