The 2016 new elevator door code, or the National Safety Code for Elevators was revised on November 30, 2016. These new standards are scheduled to go into effect on May 30, 2017.
The 2016 new elevator door code, or the National Safety Code for Elevators, known as the ASME A17.1/CSA B44-2016, was revised on November 30, 2016. These revisions pertain to Section 5.3 Private Residence Elevators and are scheduled to go into effect as of May 30, 2017. Because of these new standards, we at Preferred Elevator felt it was necessary to educate architects, builders/contractors and the consumer of how the new Code will affect future design/installations of residential elevators.
Why Was the Elevator Code Revised?
Generally speaking, elevators are one of the safest forms of transportation available; however, small child entrapment and injury is an unfortunate possibility when it comes to elevator use. Safety standards to eliminate the possibility of injuries are constantly updated and typically are required to be complied with within six months after publication.
What Changes Were Made To Improve Safety of Residential Elevators?
- When swinging hoistway doors and folding or horizontally sliding car doors are used, the new Code states there should be no more than 4” of separation between them when fully closed.
- Secondly, the amount of separation between the hoistway face of the doors and the hoistway edge of the landing sill should not exceed ¾” for swinging doors.
- Other standards for folding car doors relate to the design and installation of the doors themselves. In a fully closed position, the doors must be able to endure a force of 75 lbs. applied horizontally across a 4” diameter without permanent damage or displacement of the door from the guide or tracks.
- Much like the folding car doors, horizontal sliding doors must also endure 75 lbs. of force applied while the door is fully closed on a 4”x4” area at right angles without permanent damage occurring by the deflection.
We at Preferred Elevator care greatly about the safety and well-being of our customers; therefore, you can be assured we will only install Code compliant elevators. If you have further questions regarding this, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Preferred Elevator: We’re On the Up and Up!
For 11 years, Preferred Elevator has served residents in Central Maryland, Baltimore, and Washington, DC. You can rely on our experienced home installation team and quality products. Get in touch with us! Our business hours are Monday-Friday 8am-5pm. Reach us by phone at 410-238-2555, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and LinkedIn.
