Elevator pit hazards & safe access

There have been some recent accidents involving elevator pits.  Pit safety is one thing that is of the utmost importance but we at times are complacent. This posting will be vague as non-elevator personnel should not be entering pits.  It is intended to be a refresher and remind us of close calls we have heard of or experiences so we do not repeat them.

Pit hazards

1.    Inadequate refuge space

2.    Inadequate lighting

3.    Improper access

4.    Tripping hazards

5.    Unsafe or lack of pit ladder

6.    Moisture/water/oil

7.    Moving equipment

[example of pristine pit conditions elevator mechanics run into]

One of the more important items is planning, look at the pit, identify the key pieces of elevator equipment and safety equipment as well as refuge area.  As we see in the picture sometimes there is a lot going on in a pit.

Lock out tag outs are a big item we need to remember to do when we are not needing to move an elevator to perform work.

Barricade the hoist way door if it going to be open more than 5”.  Even with two people performing a task, the 2^nd person always tends to have to get something, be aware of this item.

Be aware of the hoistway door unlocking device pinch points if the door is under power.  If you haven’t experienced this, try your best not to, it isn’t pleasant.

Always be aware of the stop switch location and its position.

Always test the stop switch to make sure it actually works.

Never stand on a pit aldder when the pit stop switch is in the on position.

The Elevator Safety Handbook has processes for accessing a pit safely that goes into depth on the correct way to complete this task.  I wanted to list the high points that we may be over confident in.

As always feel free to contact us at www.colleyelevator.com, email Craigz@colleyelevator.com or call 630-766-7230.