Did You Know #1 - Lockout/Tagout
The Control of Hazardous Energy    (08-02-2008)

From: CFR - 1910.147 - The control of hazardous energy (lockout/tagout)

 1910.147(c)(5)(ii)(C)(1) - Lockout devices. Lockout devices shall be substantial enough to prevent removal without the use of excessive force or unusual techniques, such as with the use of bolt cutters or other metal cutting tools.  

A lockout device is designed to prevent you from accidentally injuring someone else or someone else injuring you. The device used to lockout the source of energy may seem "flimsy" but it is designed to prevent accidents - not to prevent a determined individual from energizing a piece of equipment. Some of the lockout devices in the Lockout/Tagout section of my Safety Folder do not appear to be very sturdy...and they probably are not!

Either one of these devices can be defeated by a good
twist with a sturdy screwdriver inside the lock shackle.
"substantial enough to prevent removal without the use of excessive force..."

 1910.147(c)(5)(ii)(C)(2) - Tagout devices. Tagout devices, including their means of attachment, shall be substantial enough to prevent inadvertent or accidental removal. Tagout device attachment means shall be of a non-reusable type, attachable by hand, self-locking, and non-releasable with a minimum unlocking strength of no less than 50 pounds and having the general design and basic characteristics of being at least equivalent to a one-piece, all environment-tolerant nylon cable tie.  

CFR - 1910.147 App A - Typical minimal lockout procedures

U.S. Department of Labor Lockout/Tagout Interactive Training Program

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Did You Know #2 - Retractable Pit Ladders
Pit Access    (08-09-2008)

From: A17.1/CSA B44 - 2007 Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators

 2.2.4 Pit Access - 2.2.4.2 - There shall be installed in the pit of each elevator, where the pit extends more than 900 mm (35in.) below the sill of the pit access door (lowest hoistway door or separate pit access door), a fixed vertical ladder of noncombustible material, located within reach of the access door. The ladder is permitted to be retractable or nonretractable. [Emphasis added]  

The ladder must be "a fixed vertical ladder of noncombustible material".

The code in the United States and Canada now allows the pit ladder to be retractable...but it appears that it must be "fixed" in place.

It seems that pit ladders are allowed to be arranged in the following manner in a few countries and under a few codes (EN81-1 and -2, EN131 - see the W+W Lift web site).

As you can see, this ladder is neither "fixed" nor is it perfectly "vertical".

It is removable and collapses for easy storage.

Here the ladder is shown in the stored position.

Whether the ladder is fixed or not, most jurisdictions would probably
require a "retractable ladder electrical device" to indicate when the
ladder is not in the proper storage position (fully retracted).
All of these images were "borrowed" from the W+W Lift web site.

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Did You Know #3 - Firefighters' Emergency Operation
Key Construction    (08-16-2008)

Firefighters and elevator personnel have been complaining for years about standardizing the keys used for firefighters' emergency operation. Well...beginning with all new construction under A17.1-2007/CSA B44-07 the keys will be exactly the same on all jobs and for all manufacturers.

Key switches and devices that will require this key:

Requirement:
2.27.2 - Emergency or Standby Power System
2.27.3 - Firefighters' Emergency Operation - Automatic Elevators
  2.27.3.1 - Phase I Emergency Recall Operation
  2.27.3.3 - Phase II Emergency In-Car Operation
2.27.4 - Firefighters' Emergency Operation - Nonautomatic Elevators
  2.27.4.1 - Phase I Emergency Recall Operation

Construction - tubular, 7 pin, style 137
Coded (Labeled) - 'FEO-K1'

Bitting Code - starts at the tab, sequenced clockwise as viewed from the barrel end of the key
(The bitting code can be found in A17.1-2007/CSA B44-07 - 2.27.8  Switch Keys)

From: A17 Standards Committee Interpretations Volume 2 (Go to the very last interpretation in this document - Inquiry 07-29)

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Did You Know #4 - National Electrical Code
Code Arrangment    (08-23-2008)

From: 2008 National Electrical Code® (NFPA 70®)

An essential code "requirement" is presented in Article 90 of the National Electrical Code (NEC) - 2008 Edition (...and earlier editions as well).
It states:

 90.3 Code Arrangement   This Code is divided into the introduction and nine chapters, as shown in Figure 90.3. Chapters 1, 2, 3, and 4 apply generally; Chapters 5, 6 and 7 apply to special occupancies, special equipment, or other special conditions. These latter chapters supplement or modify the general rules. Chapters 1 through 4 apply except as amended by Chapters 5, 6, and 7 for the particular conditions. [Emphasis added]  

Part of Figure 90.3

I mention this "requirement" because I've noticed that an inspector will occasionally attempt to force a general contractor to change a condition that is perfectly safe and legal. For example - an overhead fluorescent light fixture is equipped with a 6 foot section of flexible metal conduit ("flex") connecting the hanging fixture to a junction box on the ceiling. Article 620.21 (Wiring Methods) permits limited use of "flex" in the machine room - but this article is concerned with elevator and related equipment only. Light fixture whips are not governed by Article 620.21. Our concerns with light fixtures are limited to mostly required illumination, fixture location, light switch location, etc.

Of course, if you see something like this you gotta squawk!
"It's just a short piece of garden hose...won't that work?"

Incidentally...this is why every box should have a cover.
This "situation" was found behind a stove.
I suppose the fork was used to see if the job was done!

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Did You Know #5 - Cylinder Test
Sequence of Test    (08-30-2008)

The cylinder test is performed during the acceptance (commissioning) and periodic inspections. It should be performed "after the relief valve setting and system pressure test."

From: ASME A17.1 - 2004 Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators

 8.11.3.2.2 Cylinders. This test shall be performed after the relief valve setting and system pressure test in 8.11.3.2.1. Cylinders that are exposed shall be visually inspected. Cylinders that are not exposed shall be tested. After a minimum of 15 min a change in car position which cannot be accounted for by visible oil leakage, valve leakage, or temperature change indicates a leak in the unexposed portion of the cylinder or the piping (Item 2.36).  

From: ASME A17.2-2004 Guide for Inspection of Elevators, Escalators, and Moving Walks

 ITEM 2.36 HYDRAULIC CYLINDERS
2.36.2 Periodic Test
2.36.2.2 Hydraulic Elevators: Yearly Test (for A17.1d-2000 and Earlier Editions); Category 1 Test (for A17.1-2000 and Later Editions).

  This test should be performed after the relief valve test in Item 2.31 and the flexible hose test in Item 2.34. Cylinders that cannot be inspected visually should be tested in the following manner with no load in the car. Mark the location of the car at any convenient position. Open the disconnect switch for 15 min. Note the position of the car platform with respect to the reference mark. A change in car position that cannot be accounted for by visible oil leakage, valve leakage, or temperature change of the oil indicates a leak of the cylinder or in the underground piping and a need for further inspection, tests, or repairs. [Emphasis added]  

From: ASME A17.2-2004 Guide for Inspection of Elevators, Escalators, and Moving Walks

 ITEM 2.31 RELIEF VALVES
2.31.2 Periodic Test
2.31.2.2 Hydraulic Elevators: Yearly Test (for A17.1d-2000 and Earlier Editions); Category 1 Test (for A17.1-2000 and Later Editions).

  Have an inspectors pressure gauge installed in the system. There is usually a fitting provided for this in the machine room. Test the relief valve by inching the car at slow speed against the stop ring. Then cause the controls to attempt to run the car at full speed and read the gauge. The full output of the pump should bypass at a gauge reading 150% or less of the working pressure.
  After the test, check the car for proper operation and visually inspect the system for leaks. After this test, the means of adjustment must be sealed. The annual test of flexible hydraulic hose and fitting assembly (Item 2.17) may be conducted concurrently with this relief valve test.
  A17.1–1971 and later editions require that the working pressure be on a plate mounted on the power unit.  

I take from these requirements the following:

1 - The system pressure test involves the entire system. Some mechanics want to adjust and test the relief valve by closing the machine room shut-off valve. You can adjust it that way but the entire system must be "stressed" at the relief valve pressure...inch the car up on the stop ring.

2 - If the entire cylinder and all piping is exposed, then the 15 minute test does not need to be performed.

3 - What about piping running through the machine room wall into the pit? I think it is exposed (not underground) and can be visually inspected.

4 - Some movement is permissible due to temperature change. Oil in the buried cylinder/pipe cools down and contracts - car drops a bit.

5 - If the jack assembly is installed in a shallow concrete depression and I can see the bottom of the cylinder, then it is exposed (not underground) and can be visually inspected.

As with all code issues - when in doubt check with your authority having jurisdiction for their thoughts before assuming anything.

Think it will pass?!

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Did You Know #6 - Hoistway Recesses Are Finally OK
It's Probably A Good Thing    (09-07-2008)

Before the 2007 edition of A17.1/CSA B44 recesses were not generally permitted in the hoistway.

From: ASME A17.1 - 2004 Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators

 2.1.6.2 On sides not used for loading and unloading
(a) recesses, except those necessary for installation of elevator equipment, shall not be permitted...  

The 2007 edition of A17.1/CSA B44 does not prohibit recesses and in fact provides the means to make recesses legal.

From: ASME A17.1-2007/CSA B44-07 Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators

 2.1.6.2 On sides not used for loading and unloading
(c) where recesses or setbacks exceeding 100 mm (4 in.) occur in the enclosure wall, the top of the recess or setback shall be beveled at an angle of not less than 75 deg with the horizontal...  

A depiction of the beveling requirement

I was told that the reason for this change is because the terms 'recess' and 'setback' often have the same definition, therefore, there appears to be no reason to allow setbacks but not recesses.

I found the following definitions:

projection - something that projects, or juts out
recess - a receding or hollow place, as in a surface, wall, etc.; niche
setback - an upper part of a wall or building set back to form a steplike section

A depiction of these definitions

Projections, recesses, and setbacks are also permitted to be covered (screened) instead of beveled.

From: ASME A17.1-2007/CSA B44-07 Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators

 2.1.6.2 On sides not used for loading and unloading
(d) bevels are not required if the projections, recesses, and setbacks are covered with materials conforming to the following:
(1) it shall be equal to or stronger than 1.110 mm (0.0437 in.) wire
(2) it shall have openings not exceeding 25 mm (1 in.)
(3) it shall be supported and braced such that it will not deflect more than 25 mm (1 in.) when subjected to a force of 4.79 kPa (100 lbf/ft2) applied horizontally at any point  

A depiction of the screening option

Consider the following:

1 - Only the tops of projections and recesses require a bevel if greater than 100 mm (4 in.) in depth. The code is not concerned with the bottom of a projection or the top of a recess. But Bob, I would guess you are thinking, what if you are running up and something is protruding from the car top and catches a projection or the top of a recess? Well think of this my friend...there are numerous rail brackets, switch brackets, separator beams, traveling cable hitches, counterweights, etc. for you to get in trouble with. Keep everything including yourself within the footprint of the car top. Remember, the intent of this section of the code is to discourage standing or placing tools and other equipment on projections, recesses, and setbacks.

2 - At one time the maximum depth of the projection, recess, or setback was 2 inches (51 mm) (ASME A17.1-1996). Some authorities having jurisdiction (AHJ) have adopted newer editions of A17.1 but still require the 2 inch (51 mm) dimension (California for example). Check with your AHJ for their requirements.

3 - Personally, I'm glad they have decided to include recesses. It was always difficult to explain why projections were allowed and recesses were not.

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Did You Know #7 - Top Emergency Exits
Pick A Shape    (09-14-2008)

Have you ever seen a car top emergency exit opening that was not in the shape of a rectangle or square?

From: A17.1/CSA B44 - 2007 Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators

 2.14.1.5 Top Emergency Exits
2.14.1.5.1 (a) The top emergency exit opening shall have an area of not less than 0.26 m2 (400 in.2) and shall measure not less than 400 mm (16 in.) on any side.  

A triangular shaped emerency exit opening and cover

This is a ThyssenKrupp ISIS car top - notice the small 2:1 car top sheave and Kevlar ropes.

Another angle...please note the emergency
exit cover contact, lock, and keys

As you can see there is room to stand and the cover is provided with a contact.

Triangular shaped emergency exit openings with just enough area

From: A17.1/CSA B44 - 2007 Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators

 2.14.1.5 Top Emergency Exits
2.14.1.5.1 (f) Immediately adjacent to the top emergency exit there shall be a space available for standing when the emergency exit cover is open. This space shall be permitted to include a portion of the refuge area (see 2.4.12). All exit covers shall be provided with a car top emergency exit electrical device (see 2.26.2.18) that will prevent operation of the elevator car if the exit cover is open more than 50 mm (2 in.), and the device shall be so designed that it
(1) is positively opened
(2) cannot be closed accidentally when the cover is removed
(3) must be manually reset from the top of the car and only after the cover is within 50 mm (2 in.) of the fully closed position
(4) shall be protected against mechanical damage  

If the elevator is required to conform to Section 8.4, Elevator Safety Requirements for Seismic Risk Zone 2 or Greater, the contact pictured above would not meet code.

Seismic Requirements for Top Emergency Exits - Elevators With Counterweights

From: A17.1/CSA B44 - 2007 Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators

 8.4.4.1 Top Emergency Exits
8.4.4.1.1 The requirements specified in 2.14.1.5 shall apply except that the emergency exit shall be so arranged that it can be opened from within the car by means of a keyed spring-return cylinder-type lock having not less than a five-pin or five-disk combination and opened from the top of the car without the use of a key.
The key required to open the emergency exit lock shall be kept on the premises in a location readily accessible to authorized persons, but not where it is available to the public. No other key to the building shall unlock the emergency exit lock except that where hoistway access switches conforming to 2.12.7 are provided, the key used to operate the access switches shall be permitted to also unlock the top emergency exit. This key shall be Group 1 Security (see 8.1).

8.4.4.1.2 The top emergency exit shall be provided with a car door electric contact conforming to 2.14.1.5.1(f) and so located as to be inaccessible from the inside of the car. The opening of the electrical contact shall limit the car speed to not more than 0.75 m/s (150 ft/min). [Emphasis added]  

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