Why Elevator Recall is Important

 

An elevator recall ensues when a fire alarm system triggers and commences to automatically send the elevator cab and its occupants to the building’s primary or pre-determined floor. If the smoke detector that set off the alarm is on the primary floor, the elevator will recall to an alternate floor.

Keeping People Safe is the Primary Goal

The idea is to get people in the elevator to safety as quickly as possible. Elevator shafts can fill with smoke and fumes exceptionally quickly in a fire emergency. A recall also tells firefighters that fire could be in the machine room or shaft and to not use it.

Since elevators require inspection and testing of recalls, it is critical for building managers to educate themselves on the fundamentals of the process.

Maintenance and Testing are Critical 

For a facility’s elevator to receive certification, it must go through annual testing and inspection of elevator recalls, among other things. Trained elevator and fire alarm technicians should be the ones to test how the recall functions.  Both the Authorities Having Jurisdiction (fire department) and the local elevator inspection department are tapped with administering the regulations.

There are varied code requirements, including the Chicago Building Code, International Building Code, standards issued by the National Fire Protection Association, and more affecting businesses in and around Chicago.  This makes it complex to understand which regulations apply to your company and your property.  Working with an experienced fire alarm and life safety professional will ensure that your elevators are tested and properly maintained.

The Regulations That Guide Elevator Recalls

 There are general regulations found in NFPA 13, 70, 72, 101, and ASME A17.1 that detail the requirements for elevator recalls and fire alarm systems. 

Here are a few highlights:

●        Smoke detectors are prohibited in the shaft without sprinklers.

●        Just heat detectors may be acceptable in a parking garage elevator lobby where smoke detectors may not be required. 

●        Only automatic detectors located in elevator shafts, elevator lobbies, and machine rooms are permitted to initiate the recalling of elevators.  An elevator should never be recalled by a manual pull station or by detectors in other facility areas unless specified by the AHJ.

●        Many older fire alarms comply with code and may be appropriate for elevator recall, while some systems may require an upgrade of fire alarm technology. 

●        Many fire departments may mandate a complete overhaul of the building’s fire safety system to achieve code compliance. 

A building manager’s essential function in fire alarm system and elevator recall testing is to organize the process and its multiple moving parts. Scheduling a time for the testing and inspection that works for fire alarm and recall technicians is a big part of the role. 

After hours when few or no tenants are in the facility is the best time to test and inspect elevators. Businesses should notify occupants in advance of the testing. Posting signs that indicate necessary testing is occurring and not just “out of order” will help avoid some frustration and let occupants know you are working for their safety. 

High Rise Security Systems Provides Elevator Recall Assistance

 High Rise Security Systems, HRSS, can assist building managers in meeting all code regulations regarding elevator recall and provide documentation to the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ). We ensure that your facility’s fire alarm system meets all code regulations such as NFPA 101 Life Safety Code®, NFPA 72 National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, and other applicable code regulations. HRSS also provides businesses with updated commercial fire alarm modifications based on changes in the demands of society and technological innovations.

HRSS offers the latest in commercial fire alarm code compliant technology, including elevator recalls. We provide full-service AutoCAD design of commercial fire alarm systems and service from field-trained, NICET certified technicians. Contact us to learn more about protecting your properties with code complaint commercial fire alarms and elevator recall service. 

This article was originally published at: https://hrsschicago.com/fire-alarm-and-life-safety/why-elevator-recall-is-important/