Elevators have been around for many years and are generally a safe mode of ascending and descending between multiple floors in a building. However, this does not mean that elevators are completely without risk.
Below are some tips for elevator safety of which users should be aware.
— Don’t overload elevator cars. Each car has a maximum weight capacity that should not be exceeded. When in doubt, wait for the next car.
— Don’t stand right in front of an elevator when you are waiting for the car to arrive. Stand back a few feet or off to the side so that passengers can disembark without you getting in their way.
— Never take the elevator in the event of a fire or other emergency that could affect the structural integrity of the elevator or the building itself. In these cases, always use the stairs.
— Maintain control over children and pets around and in elevators at all times.
— Be mindful when entering and exiting the car at your designated floor, as the elevator may not stop exactly flush with the floor.
— Don’t stand close enough to the door that clothing or items you are carrying could get trapped.
If you get stuck in a stalled elevator, don’t panic. While you may get uncomfortable if the car remains stalled for a period of time, rest assured that there is sufficient air circulating throughout the car. You should first press the emergency button to see if it will restart the elevator. Some elevators have a phone or intercom inside to communicate with maintenance or building security. Otherwise, use your cellphone to alert 911 operators of your location and predicament.
Under no circumstances should passengers attempt to climb out of the car and enter the elevator shaft. Remain calm and wait for assistance to arrive.
If you are injured in an elevator accident, you may decide to pursue a premises liability lawsuit in the New York civil courts.
Source: National Elevator Industry, Inc., “Elevator Safety,” accessed July 14, 2016
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