New Hampshire Adopts ASME A17.1-2022 Safety Code for Elevators
Attention, building owners and managers in New Hampshire! As of March 2024, the state has officially adopted the latest update to the ASME A17.1-2022 elevator safety code and now requires all new elevator installations AND elevator modernizations to be in compliance.
Previously, the Granite State allowed for modernizations to comply with older versions of the ASME code. Now, however, the 2022 version of the code applies to all new installations and modernizations for any project receiving a permit after March 20th, 2024. The state will also be conducting compliance audit inspections on modernizations, so it’s essential to ensure that any newly installed or modernized elevators on your property are up to code.
If you aren’t aware of this code or aren’t familiar with its most recent update, here’s what you need to know — and how Stanley Elevator can help ensure you’re in compliance.
What Is Elevator Safety Code A17.1-2022?
The Elevator Safety Code A17.1-2022, officially known as ASME A17.1-2022/CSA B44-2022, is a comprehensive set of safety standards for elevators and escalators. This code is jointly developed by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) to ensure a unified approach to elevator safety across North America and that all passengers of the elevator cars remain safe.
The code covers various aspects of elevator design, installation, operation, maintenance and inspection to minimize risks and ensure the safe transport of passengers and goods. There are several different versions of ASME, classified by the year in which they were amended, with the 2022 version being the most recent.
The ASME code year typically is enforced at the state level, and the specific requirements to meet elevator code can vary based on the code year that your state adopts. As of March 2024, New Hampshire the A17.1-2022 revision is now effective for all new installations and modernizations in New Hampshire.
Key Requirements of the 2022 Revision
The 2022 revision of the Elevator Safety Code is one of its most significant updates and introduces several major changes aimed at enhancing safety, improving accessibility and incorporating technological advancements. Here are some of the key requirements:
- Emergency Communication — Elevator cabs require remote interaction operation and emergency communication systems so that passengers can easily contact or respond to emergency services in case of an elevator malfunction. These requirements include:
- The ability for whoever is monitoring the elevator to send messages to a screen in the elevator cab (ex. “Is this an emergency?”; “Do you need assistance?”).
- Data in the elevator machine rooms that must comply with the new video requirements and allow passengers the ability to respond with yes/no text messages on the screen.
- Accessibility Considerations — The design of car operating panels have been updated. Elevators must now have clearer visual and auditory indicators for floor levels and emergency situations, enhancing accessibility for passengers with disabilities. This includes features such as braille markings and voice guidance, and a screen to receive messages from an outside monitoring company.
- Cybersecurity Requirements — With the introduction of digital elements in the elevator control systems, all points of connectivity must now have cybersecurity protection to prevent unauthorized access. Specialized buildings, structures or use environments may require additional security measures.
- Elevator Shaft Lighting — Elevator shafts have new lighting requirements that may require additional coordination with electricians.
- Flood Plain Considerations — Elevator machinery and machine room locations now cannot be located in FEMA-established flood plains.
- Pit Ladder Sensors — Elevator pit ladders now require sensors that can remove the power from elevator cabs to ensure the safety of mechanics and inspectors.
- Record-Keeping — All information needed to ensure that elevator maintenance and testing are consistent with the manufacturer’s recommendations must be readily available. This means consistent record-keeping of resources such as maintenance control plans, oil logs, wiring diagrams, code data tags and any other administrative items that can be of use for elevator mechanics
Why Is the Elevator Safety Code A17.1-2022 Important?
The Elevator Safety Code A17-1-2022 represents an important step in ensuring the safety, reliability and accessibility of elevators and escalators. Here are a few reasons why compliance with this code is crucial:
- Safety. The primary goal of keeping the code updated is to protect passengers and maintenance personnel from accidents and injuries. By adhering to these standards, building owners and operators can significantly reduce the risk of elevator-related incidents.
- Protection. For building owners and managers, compliance with the code is a legal requirement. You need to protect your property as much as your passengers, and non-compliance can result in hefty fines, litigation and reputational damage.
- Innovation. The development of new technologies and more energy-efficient practices encourages innovation in the elevator industry. Updating the code to adopt these innovations leads to better, more sustainable systems.
- Accessibility. The code enhances accessibility features in elevators, ensuring they are usable by everyone, including individuals with disabilities, thereby fostering inclusivity in building design.
Have Questions or Need Assistance? Contact Stanley
Prior to March 2024, building owners in New Hampshire could modernize their elevators to match older versions of the ASME code, but now all modernizations must be aligned with 2022 standards. Additionally, the state now sends out a state inspector from the Department of Labor to conduct audits after a modernization is completed and verify that all parts of the elevator are in compliance.
Whether you are a building owner, manager or elevator technician, understanding and implementing the updated guidelines of this code is vital for maintaining a safe and efficient vertical transportation system. However, the Elevator Safety Code is an extensive and comprehensive document over 500 pages long.
So, if you have questions about the specifics of this update, or are looking for a trusted partner to get needed modernizations done in a timely manner, contact us. You can trust the Stanley Elevator difference to provide guidance and support.