Fire Alarm Elevator Recalls and Preparation for Facility Managers
Fire alarm elevator recalls occur when the fire alarm system activates and initiates sending the elevator cab to the facility’s primary egress floor. If the activation device is located on the egress floor, then the elevator will recall to a predetermined alternate floor. This ensures elevator passengers exit on a safe floor away from the potential fire. Since buildings equipped with elevators require inspection and testing of fire alarm elevator recalls, it is important for facility managers to understand the inspection basics and how to prepare for testing.
Fire Alarm Elevator Recalls Explained
NFPA 13, 70, 72, 101, and ASME A17.1 outline the requirements for fire alarm systems and elevator recalls. For an elevator to receive its’ annual certification of operation it must undergo an annual inspection and testing of the fire alarm system and elevator recalls. During testing, fire alarm and elevator technicians work together to test the elevator recall function. Fire alarm professionals inspect and test the lobby and top of shaft smoke detectors. When technicians test heat detectors and water flow switches, it activates the shunt trip mechanism and shuts off power to the elevator. This helps prevent water damage to the elevator and unintentional power loss that could cause a dangerous situation.
Preparation Tips for Facility Managers
The facility manager’s primary role in fire alarm system and elevator recall testing is the coordinator. They need to schedule a time for inspection and testing that works for both their elevator and fire alarm contractors. The best time to schedule is after hours or a time when there are few occupants in the building. Facility occupants must be notified in advance about when elevator testing will occur. Additionally, posting out-of-order signs on elevators undergoing testing helps keep occupants from entering an elevator during testing. The building’s monitoring company should also receive a notification about the upcoming inspection. This prevents dispatching the fire alarm department due to a false alarm. Elevator machine room keys must also be available for the contractors. If the elevator machine room is difficult to locate or due to security, arrange escorts to assist contractors.
Facilities equipped with elevators must receive annual fire alarm system and elevator recall inspections. This test verifies that the elevator will function properly during a fire. Since elevators must be placed out of service during their inspection, it’s best to schedule testing during off-hours. By preparing and coordinating with contractors, personnel, and building occupants facility managers can help make this annual test run smoothly.
Categorized in: Education, Fire Alarms, General