Elevator Safety Tips

Due to an alarming rash of elevator-related accidents, the United States Congress recently declared the month of October to be National Elevator Safety Month.   In the interest of promoting elevator safety awareness and educating the public about proper elevator riding techniques, I've created this page of elevator safety tips.   Read through them carefully before using the elevator again.  Remember, preventing elevator accidents is up to you.

 

TIP #1

Be sure to stand clear of the elevator door as it is closing.   Remember that the door sensors aren't always completely reliable.

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Sometimes, photoelectric sensors are only
located near the center of the elevator door.
Don't become trapped!

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Sensors are also prone to malfunction.
Always treat elevator doors with caution.

 

TIP #2

Always enter and exit the elevator at designated floor alignments.  Attempting to exit when the elevator is improperly aligned is inadvisable because it exposes the open elevator shaft.

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Stunts like this may be humorous,
but they can also be fatal.

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Notice the exposed elevator shaft below.
Unsuspecting elevator passengers could easily fall in.

 

TIP #3

If you should come upon an exposed elevator shaft, notify the proper elevator safety officials immediately.  Do not go near the open shaft or attempt to climb through it.

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Open elevator shafts are dangerous!  Avoid them at all costs.

 

TIP #4

Alcohol can severely impair your ability to operate elevators.  Proper elevator riding requires a clear head.  If you plan on riding the elevator, avoid drinking at all costs.

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Never drink and ride.

 

TIP #5

Before you board the elevator, make sure that none of its passengers appear dangerous.   If you feel threatened by a passenger who is  boarding the elevator, exit the elevator immediately.  It's silly to take unnecessary risks when the stairs are always a viable alternative.

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Never enter the elevator with
suspicious-looking characters.
It's better to be safe than sorry.

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Beware of individuals with large water guns.
Don't become the victim of an elevator hijacking.

 

TIP #6

"Be prepared" is the elevator safety motto.  Nothing is more crucial to a safe, pleasurable elevator ride than taking the proper precautions beforehand.   Never commence an elevator journey without the necessary equipment.

In the pictures below, you see Dan and Adam preparing for a ride on the elevator.  Notice that they have packed the following items:

  • Emergency Telephone
  • Harness
  • Carabiners
  • Toolbox
  • Safety Helmets
  • CB Radio
  • Ball Peen Hammer
  • Pipe Wrench
  • Communication Headsets with Built-in Microphones
  • Bungee Cords

 

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When embarking on an elevator ride,
make sure to bring the proper equipment.

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Share your elevator knowledge with others.
Together, we can make elevators safe
and enjoyable for everyone!

When you decide you're ready to ride the elevator, you may wish to look over the checklist above so that you don't forget anything.  Above all, always ride with a buddy.

 

elevator.jpg (3667 bytes) This page was brought to you by the Carnegie Mellon chapter of the National Elevator Safety Foundation: