Elevator Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts When Using a Lift

In the current era, proper lift etiquette has to be followed by everyone. Several etiquettes are based on common sense. But, some of them are those which nobody has told you in the past. In that case, you don’t have to be an expert while using the lift. Instead, you can simply be kind and polite to people inside the lift. So, scroll ahead to know more about some elevator etiquettes. 

Basic Principles of Using an Elevator 

While using an elevator, you must follow certain principles. Let’s check the elevator norms ahead.

1. Always stand away from the doors till the time the elevator arrives. Moreover, you must avoid blocking the entrance to allow individuals to exit.
2. Make sure that you press the right button before entering. If you’re not sure, then you can check the floor number that’s displayed inside. 
3. Always wait for the door to open completely before stepping inside. Once you’re stepping out, you should also not be in a hurry.
4. If you want someone to enter the lift, then press the “Door Open” button. Moreover, you must also ensure that the doors aren’t blocked once they close.
5. Most of the time, elevators have door sensors. These can prevent the doors from closing if blocked. Hence, never stand close to the doorframe or try to close it forcibly. 
6. In case an emergency arises, then use emergency features. On the other hand, if you get stuck, then press the emergency button calmly. 

Eventually, you must respect everybody’s space. To maintain a calm atmosphere, you must also not engage in conversations. 

If you want to know the function of elevator doors, then check our article on types of elevator doors. 

Now, let’s check what you must do while using a lift. 

Do’s of Elevator Etiquette 

1. Do Wait for People to Exit First

Soon after an elevator arrives, you must allow individuals to exit first. This simple act of courtesy will ensure that everyone has enough space to stand. People can also reach floors comfortably as they enter. This is especially important when there’s a relentless flow of individuals. 

2. Do Be Mindful of the Buttons

When you wish to use the lift, press the floor button that you need. In case you press the unnecessary ones, then it can lead to delays. If you’re in a group, then ensure that everyone has chosen the desired floor. Additionally, you must check that the door-close button is pressed when it’s needed. 

3. Do Keep Conversation at a Low Volume

Lifts are enclosed spaces where people may overhear personal conversations. So, when you follow elevator norms, you must speak softly. A soft voice will not disturb others around you.  Moreover, you must remember that people prefer silence in such spaces. 

4. Do Wait Your Turn

As you’re in the elevator queue, always wait for your turn. This is applicable also in case people with disabilities are standing ahead of you. Once you don’t break the queue, the flow of individuals is maintained. 

Now, let’s check what you must refrain from doing while using a lift. 

Don’ts of Elevator Etiquette

1. Don’t Block the Doors

Blocking the doors can prevent the lift from functioning properly. There might also be a significant delay in reaching the floors. So, it’s better to stay away from the doorframe. Unnecessary alarms may also be triggered when you stand too close to the lift’s door. 

2. Don’t Overcrowd the Elevator

People may have to face danger when the lift exceeds its weight-bearing capacity. So, before you board the lift, pay attention to the weight limits. In case the elevator is already full, then you  must wait for some time. 

3. Don’t Press Buttons Repeatedly

It’s quite irritating when you press the elevator’s buttons repeatedly. But, once you’ve pressed the floor button, you let the lift do its job. On the contrary, if you realize that you have pressed an incorrect button, then let the lift stop at the floor. Among the elevator norms, you must also avoid pressing the right button suddenly. 

4. Don’t Hold the Door Open

When you have to hold the door open, avoid doing it for a long time. Holding the door for a long time can affect the lift’s operation. Individuals will also have to bear the inconvenience when the lift is at a standstill. Beyond this, you must let the lift proceed when the door closes. 

Now, let’s check out the etiquettes to follow when you’re with disabled individuals. These have to be followed in addition to the lift usage guidelines. 

Check out our article on the world’s fastest lifts to know about the capabilities of lifts at different destinations. 

Elevator Etiquette for Special Situations

• Always give priority to individuals with disabilities. Be careful about those using mobility aids or wheelchairs. Once they enter or exit the lift, ensure that the door is closed completely. 
• If you notice someone who needs some more time to enter, then press the ‘Door Open’ button. This has to be considered especially for safe entry and exit.
• In tall buildings, you must first allow the disabled to board first. You must also avoid overcrowding the elevator. Instead, you must wait patiently for another elevator during busy times.
• When you’re using a lift in a tall building, avoid pressing many buttons. In case you press the buttons unnecessarily, then the actions can slow down the lift. Moreover, if you’re riding with someone with limited mobility, you must select the right floor.
• If there’s an emergency, then don’t hesitate to communicate for assistance. Alternatively, you can also press the right button to alert people. 
• Besides the above elevator etiquettes, you must be considerate with cognitively impaired individuals. You must also lend assistance to people suffering from chronic pain. Once you offer help, such individuals can use the elevator comfortably. 

Conclusion

Finally, it isn’t tough to follow elevator norms. You only need some time and good manners. Some common sense can also make you aware of what you must avoid doing. But, once you use a lift often, it can improve the experience for others around you. You can also expect a smooth ride when you’re led to the desired floor.  

If you’re still seeking specialized lifts for your clients, then choose a lift from MAS Industries. While we will work assiduously to develop a specialized lift, we will follow certain standards. We can also offer lift spare parts as and when they are required.