How Often Should Elevators Be Inspected?

In today’s world, elevators enable us to go to different floors of a building. But, with time, the elevators may not deliver consistent performance. The components of lift can also wear out due to frequent use. So, in this article, we shall cover more about why lift inspections are important. Through the article, you also know more about what you must consider when the lift is getting inspected. 

Why are Regular Lift Inspections important?

Regular lift inspections are important to ensure reliability and safety. Once routine checks are conducted, it can help prevent accidents. Costly repairs can also be prevented by carrying out inspections regularly. Moreover, inspections help ensure compliance with the local safety regulations. Eventually, regular lift maintenance can help elevators run smoothly. 

How often must you consider lift inspections?

Ideally, elevators have to be inspected at least once in a year. But, frequent checks may be necessary depending on its usage. In case the lift is in a commercial building, then it’s better to conduct inspections quarterly. As soon as the lifts are maintained, it helps to identify the issues early. Subsequently, an inspection schedule can help minimize downtime, and ensure that it’s in working condition. 

What are the Types of Lift Inspections?

Let’s now check the different types of inspections for lifts. These will ensure safety and help you gauge the load bearing capacity. 

• Routine inspections
  Routine inspections have to be conducted to check the lift’s basic functionality. Such inspections focus on the overall condition with mechanical components. Generally, these are performed after every 3 to 12 months. But, a team will inspect the lift depending on the usage. 

• Safety Inspections
  Safety inspections are designed to ensure proper functioning of safety features. In case the lift is not checked for safety, then it can compromise passenger safety. Above all, it’s essential to conduct the inspections annually. Way ahead, inspections have to be carried frequently for lifts in tall buildings.

• Load Testing
  Through this test, the team places a specific weight in the lift. This confirms whether the lift can handle the rated capacity. But, depending on the usage and regulations, the test is performed every 1 to 5 years. During the inspection, the team will verify the integrity of key components. 

• Maintenance Inspections
  Such lift inspections focus on the lift’s mechanical and electrical systems. These help to identify the worn out parts like cables and the drive motor. But, to prevent breakdowns, the inspections are carried out semi-annually or quarterly. The inspections also ensure smooth operation of the lift. 

• Modernization Inspections
  A modernization inspection assesses whether the elevator needs upgrades. This helps to improve efficiency and meet the safety standards. Once the team is busy with inspections, they will be involved in incorporating a new technology. Replacing old parts can also be  one of the maintenance tasks. Such inspections are often conducted when the lift is about to be old. 

Go through our article on elevator repair maintenance to know how experts conduct maintenance tasks.  

What to consider under a Lift Maintenance Checklist?

Most of the time, professionals follow a lift maintenance checklist. Let’s now check what’s included in the maintenance plan.

• Once professionals commence, they will inspect the lift’s shaft and the pit. As they proceed with the maintenance tasks, they will ensure that the pit is clean. They will also make sure that there aren’t any cracks across the shaft walls.
• While checking the doors, the professionals will ensure that they don’t get stuck. Besides, they will inspect the door sensors, and locking mechanisms. This will confirm whether they are working properly. 
• During several tests, the team will verify proper functioning of the emergency communication systems. After all, the systems must enable someone to respond immediately in case of an emergency. 
• When lift cables are inspected, professionals will ensure if the tension is maintained. They may also move on with lubrication for smooth operation. Pulleys are also checked for damage or wear and tear. 
• To ensure proper operation, the lift’s control panel is also checked. Test emergency stop buttons are also checked to confirm their responsiveness. 
• During lift inspections, professionals check the interior for damages. The lighting and ventilation systems are also checked. This step will ensure utmost comfort and safety. 
• To prevent overloading, the weight sensors are also checked for calibration. In case the lift gets overloaded, then the indicators must make people alert. Soon after the correct weight is maintained, excessive strain is prevented. 
• Besides the above tests, moving parts are also lubricated. This helps to mitigate friction and minimize wear and tear. Noise is also reduced when the parts are lubricated properly. 
• When tests are conducted, proper working of the brake system is also ensured. Professionals also confirm whether the backup power system is functioning properly. People must be able to use a backup power system in case there’s a failure.

Towards the end, the machine room is examined for cleanliness. The machinery, and electrical components must also be  properly maintained.  

Feel free to check our article to gather some more lift maintenance tips. 

When Should You Approach an Elevator Inspector?

If malfunctioning is observed, then you must immediately call an elevator inspector. The professional must also call if the lift is running slowly. If the elevator’s safety features are not functioning correctly, then it’s better to schedule an inspection. Additionally, an inspection has to be carried out soon after repairs. On the other hand, inspections have to be  carried out to maintain compliance. 

Why mustn’t you overlook Lift Inspections?

If you skip lift inspections, then it can lead to serious consequences. Safety is also not assured for people who use the lift often. Without regular checks, minor issues can also become quite serious. Neglecting inspections can also result in sudden downtimes and unexpected accidents. Builders will also be unable to maintain compliance with safety regulations. 

Conclusion

Finally, it’s quite important to consider lift maintenance. In case you overlook inspections, then it can cause the elevator to slow down. The elevator will also stop functioning properly once you continue to use it. But, the frequency of inspections can depend on the usage and the lift’s age. If the lift is of an older model, then more frequent checks have to be scheduled. 

If you’re seeking a lift for your client based on certain specifications, then why not consider an elevator from MAS Industries? As one of the leading elevator companies in Mumbai, our team develops ultra-modern lifts. We also ensure to meet the safety standards without compromising on quality. 

FAQs 

1.How often should elevators be tested?

Lifts should be tested at least once during a year. However, frequent tests have to be conducted for high-traffic buildings. In addition, certain tests like load testing have to be performed after every 1 to 5 years. But, before proceeding ahead, you must follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.

2. How often do lifts need to be inspected? 

Lifts generally need to be inspected at least once a year. But, frequent inspections are required depending on the frequency of use. For commercial buildings, semi-annual inspections are also recommended. Apart from safety, these will ensure optimal performance. 

3. What is the annual maintenance of an elevator?

Annual elevator maintenance involves thorough inspections. This ensures that the elevator runs safely and efficiently. Moreover, when professionals carry out inspections, numerous parts are lubricated. The lift’s motor, and brake mechanisms are also inspected for wear and tear. Additionally, professionals clean the ventilation system.