Elevator Repair Service Needs

When a commercial building has an elevator, elevator repair service will be needed to keep the apparatus functioning smoothly. Elevators are mandatory devices in business offices and public facilities. They're required by the local zoning officials because of the American Disabilities Act. The ADA requirements were devised to allow accessibility to handicapped individuals. If a person is in a wheelchair, for example, he or she would not be able to climb stairs thus the need for an elevator. Other components within the public building include ramps from the parking lot to curbs as well as for entrance and exit doors. Restrooms are made accessible with wider doors and larger stalls. There are grab bars on the walls of the stalls so that individuals can maneuver themselves on and off of toilets. Sinks would be low enough for them to be used from the wheelchair seated position. Every item within a public building needs to be adequately maintained for safety and accessibility. Elevators are among the components that need maintenance and repair. Some of the items that will need to be kept functional include safety features, modernization and refurbishing of the cab.

Safety Features

Modern lifts are designed with safety in mind. In order to be aware of current safety regulations, technicians should attend training and be well acquainted with OSHA regulations. Keeping everything in tiptop shape will require regular inspections of the mechanical and computerized parts, performing routine maintenance and tending to all repairs as soon as possible. Service techs should be certified by NEIEP. NEIEP stands for National Elevator Industry Program, a comprehensive and information packed certification. Devices such as emergency lowering and fire compliance components must be kept functional, too.

Modernization

Over the years, elevator repair service has come a long way. The oldest devices were powered by steam and hydraulics and were often the method of transport for materials in a factory such as a wood mill, furniture manufacturer or grain plant. Some of the first devices used for humans were in department stores, apartment complexes and hotels. These moving boxes were manned by an operator who would be dressed in a uniform and ask his passengers "what floor?" as he or she pushed the buttons to get them to their destination level. Today's hoists are computerized, filled with muzak and are operated by the passengers. These devices have become so familiar that even children can operate the controls to get them up and down.

Cab Refurbishing

Elevators can last for two or three decades with proper maintenance and repair. Sometimes the cab needs refurbishing to create a speedier, safer and more attractive ride. Some of the components that often need upgrading include door replacement, pump and power units, valve conversions, main drive machines, hydraulic jacks, piston replacement and more. If a cab is truly outdated, an entire new apparatus can be brought in as an upgrade.


When it comes to elevator repair service, it will be important to keep a unit safe, maintained and modernized. Sometimes mechanical components need addressing and other times the cab needs to be refurbished or replaced. A reputable company will be able to handle all of these needs.