How to Ensure Elevator Compliance

While code requirements for elevator compliance differ in each state, Massachusetts laws focus heavily on the safety of elevators. Each regulation is there to ensure the safety of rides and lessen the risk of injuries. It can be confusing when trying to understand elevator compliance; there are several moving parts with these regulations depending on your location and the kind of elevator you own. 

Here are five guidelines to follow regarding Greater Boston elevator compliance.  

Definitions of the Word Elevator

The term elevator, in Massachusetts law, is inclusive of many kinds of machines. It includes moving stairways, dumbwaiters, moving walks, material lifts, wheelchair lifts, automatic people movers, vertical reciprocating conveyors, orchestra lifts, car lifts, limited-use elevators, and application elevators.

Must be Installed by a Registered Elevator Contractor

In Section 71B of Chapter 143 in the General Court of Massachusetts, elevator contractors must hold a valid license to install or repair an elevator. This also applies to elevator inspectors, as the law only allows people with a license to work as an inspector. 

At Buckley Elevator, we ensure that all our contractors have the necessary licenses to do the work under the Massachusetts code. 

Needs to Pass Regular Tests

Massachusetts laws require elevators to pass thoroughly inspected tests more than once a year. During these routine inspections, it is vital to test the safety devices of the elevators so that there is no cause for concern when riding them. Ten days after the inspection, the licensed inspector will complete a written form of all changes or defects to provide to the commissioner and chief executive officer of the city or town where the elevator is located.

Safety and Inspection Fees Required

The owner of the building where there is an elevator must pay fees for these routine inspections. The amount of these fees is at a rate that is accurate to the license of the said inspector. Each town and state has different rates for their inspection fees. However, if these are not paid on time or at all, there will be cause for problems and violations. These fees include installations, repairs, replacements, and other factors.

Required to Create Written Reports of Accidents

In the case of an accident with an elevator during an inspection or installation, the owner, operator, or person in charge of the elevator must create a written report. This report will be sent to the inspector who will then observe the problems. The inspector must receive a written copy of the accident report for their own records. 

What Happens When Compliances Are Violated?

If elevators fail to comply with any of the regulations and guidelines above, there will be consequences. You will have to pay a fine that could be up to $500. To prevent dealing with any kind of fines, it’s important to follow protocols as closely as possible. 

At Buckley Elevator, we will ensure your elevators stay up to Massachusetts compliance with our licensed installations, repairs, and routine checkups.