When systems are integrated—such as elevators and fire alarms—testing them at the same time is an effective way to ensure they will work together properly during an emergency. Here’s what you need to know about testing and inspecting elevators and fire alarm systems together.
At PSI, our factory-trained and NICET-certified technicians provide comprehensive fire and life safety services—monitoring, testing and inspecting, system maintenance, installations, and code compliance consultations—all under one agreement. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.
One of the most significant challenges in elevator testing is keeping up with the constantly evolving regulatory landscape. Elevator codes and standards are periodically updated to enhance safety and efficiency. Compliance with these regulations is often set by organizations like the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and enforced by a combination of state authorities such as State Elevator Inspectors and Fire Marshals.
Keeping up with the regulations can be complex and time-consuming for building owners and managers, but it’s vital to understand all legal requirements for maintenance and access to elevator equipment. Certified technicians and service providers can help ensure that all regulations are followed.
Elevator testing often requires taking elevators out of service temporarily. This downtime can be a considerable inconvenience for building occupants and can lead to complaints. Keep in mind that the elevator may be the only transportation for some building occupants, such as handicapped accessible, denied access to stairwells in high security, or construction.
Technicians and building management must coordinate scheduling to minimize disruption while still conducting thorough examinations. Caution signage and consistent communication with occupants are also vital because when the elevator is out of service during testing, it will still be moving and functional (on and off). This can lead to misunderstandings and incidents in which occupants think people may be stuck in the elevator and panic if fire function sounds come from the elevators.
Conducting elevator testing demands the expertise of qualified professionals. Integrated systems like elevators and fire alarms create a working relationship that must be coordinated by the building owner between the fire alarm system technician and an elevator technician. There are two different sets of code requirements for the emergency functions that must be tested and maintained routinely—therefore each technician has different responsibilities and knowledge.
Elevator technicians are well-versed in a variety of elevator types—from hydraulic to traction systems. Modern elevators are equipped with highly complex systems, and a certified elevator technician will be capable of troubleshooting and repairing any issues that may arise during testing. Fire alarm technicians are equipped with the knowledge and tools for verifying how elevators are set up to work with fire alarm systems, for both routine testing and investigating issues that arise during testing.
The National Fire Protection Association’s NFPA 72 guidelines specify that elevator shutdown and fire protection systems and protocols must be fully tested by experienced, certified personnel. Working with certified service providers is necessary to ensure compliance and the continued safety of building occupants.
Older elevators may require upgrades or modernization to comply with current safety standards. If an elevator does require an upgrade, the AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction: State Elevator Inspector, Fire Marshal, etc.) can enforce the expediting of this work to rectify the safety functions of the elevators and/or to get the fire safety functions up to current code. In worst cases, this work may leave elevators out of service until the work is complete. Having a working relationship with the AHJ entities will keep you equipped with knowledge of what is coming down the enforcement path.
Testing integrated systems together is a crucial component for ensuring the safety, reliability, and compliance of elevators and fire alarm systems. By working with our certified fire alarm technicians at PSI, our experts will ensure your fire safety systems keep up with regulatory changes and that the testing process runs smoothly with minimal interruptions to your occupants. Contact PSI today to learn more and schedule a free site survey.