New Elevator Codes require new elevator technology.

Providing a means for a trapped elevator passenger to request help has been part of elevator code requirements for many years. In recent years, the elevator safety codes have been updated to include additional requirements that requires new elevator technology. Keep reading to learn about emergency elevator phones, monitoring services, and the latest elevator code requirements.

Elevator Communication Technology

Traditional elevator communications have used an analog phone line (POTS) that is rented from a phone company so that when a passenger presses the alarm or phone button the elevator monitoring service is autodialed, and the trapped passenger is connected for voice communications.

Over the years, the phone companies have increased the pricing of renting these phone lines and it has become either too expensive or the phone companies have stopped providing the analog phone line entirely.

Two options exist to upgrade the analog phone line:

1. The first option is the simplest and requires upgrading from analog to cellular technology. Many options exist in the market (see below) and it can be a cheaper alternative to the analog phone line. Of course, this option requires that the building has a good cellular signal strength in order to make the connection to the phone monitoring service.
2. The second option is to use VoIP (voice over internet protocol) technology. This is becoming more popular because you can make the emergency call using the buildings computer network or by utilizing the elevator companies IoT system that is connected to the elevator to transfer data between the elevator and the elevator company. Consideration should be given to network security and your IT team should be consulted.

Elevator code requirements for Emergency Elevator Phones

Elevator code includes a requirement for a trapped passenger to call for assistance by pressing the alarm button in the elevator or by using a phone or intercom system to speak to someone outside the elevator.

Depending on the type of building, the communication system can be set-up in different ways.

• The system can connect to a 24-hour security person that is located in the building, who can then call for assistance from the elevator company or emergency services. This is common for a very large office or residential building.
• The system can also connect the elevator to a phone monitoring service that is external to the building. This service provides 24/7 service and can be provided by the elevator company, like Otis Elevator or TK Elevator, or a third-party supplier like Kings III or MyLinkLine (more details below). The monitoring service will then contact the elevator company to rescue the trapped passenger.

In recent years, the code requirements have changed to add new requirements for the emergency elevator phone.

The Latest Elevator Safety Code

At the end of 2019, the Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators (ASME A17.1 2019 and IBC 2018) was updated to include new requirements for the emergency elevator phone. Section 2.27.1: Car Emergency Signaling Devices, now includes the following requirements:

1. Two-way message display in the elevator cab for hearing and/or speech impaired
2. A means for authorized emergency personnel to view video footage of passengers anywhere inside the elevator.
3. A means activated by authorized emergency personnel to change the cab message to indicate help is on-site if over 60 feet of travel.

The changes in the code will help elevator passengers get the help they need during an entrapment, and are especially helpful for those who are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech impaired.

What does this mean in practice?

When the passenger presses the elevator call or phone button, the elevator monitoring service can now visibly see inside the elevator to confirm that there is a trapped passenger. They can communicate using their voice, and also by using nonverbal communications, by posting messages on a new type of display located inside the elevator. The monitoring service employee can send messages to the display and the passengers can respond “yes” or “no” by pressing buttons like the Door Open and Door Close button.

Here is a very good video on YouTube from Kings III Emergency Communications that explains the new process:

How the elevator video communication works

The code requirement includes a one-way elevator video communication connection that allows emergency personnel to see inside the elevator. This can provide more information on the situation such as an unconscious passenger or someone with a hearing disability. The live video of the elevator interior can be encrypted and is available to the remote monitoring service or the building security desk. 

When do I need to upgrade?

In general, all new elevators and elevators that have had a major modernization will be required to upgrade their emergency elevator phone system to the latest ASME/IBC code requirements that are described on this page.

The first thing to do is check the current status of code within your State. There are a number of ways to do this, but the easiest way is to use Kings III’s Code Compliance Database to select your State and it will confirm which code is in place. Click Here.

Emergency phone service suppliers

I always recommend discussing your elevator phone service needs with your current elevator service provider. They should be able to upgrade your elevator phone service and partner with a phone monitoring service to provide 24/7 coverage.

The national OEMs like Otis Elevator, Kone Elevator, TK Elevator, and Schindler Elevator can all provide the upgrades, and the phone monitoring service is included in your maintenance contract.

Smaller independent and regional elevator service companies may not be able to provide the necessary upgrades or phone monitoring service, so you can utilize other suppliers like King III, MyLinkLine, Safety First Wireless, and Towne Monitoring Services. This table provides a summary overview of their capabilities and links to their websites.

Company	Analog to Cellular upgrade	24/7 Phone Monitoring	Video Communications
Kings III	X	X	X
MyLinkLine	X	X
Safety First	X
Towne Monitoring		X

If you would like our help to choose the correct emergency elevator phone service for your elevator and building, we provide a very affordable elevator consulting service. Click here to learn more or send me an email.