Elevator Safety: Do’s and Don’ts of Elevator Operation

We all know elevator safety is a crucial aspect of building and home management. But not everyone is aware of the ins and outs of elevator safety on a daily basis. And if they do, they can certainly benefit from a refresher. So today we’ll talk about do’s and don’ts of safe elevator operation.

Elevator Do and Don'ts

Do:

  • Push the call button once. Repeatedly hitting it won’t make it come any faster.
  • Look and listen for the signal announcing your car’s arrival.
  • Let exiting passengers out first before stepping in.
  • Take the stairs if there is a fire or other emergency that has the potential to disrupt electrical service.
  • Press the button for your desired floor once in the car.
  • Move to the back to make room for other passengers.
  • Stay clear of doors while traveling.
  • Keep clothes and luggage away from opening.
  • Be courteous and push/hold the open button if someone is approaching the elevator.
  • Grasp the handrail if available.
  • Watch floor indicators and be prepared to exit at your desired floor.
  • Notify management if you notice anything unusual about the elevator or its function.
  • Ask someone politely to press a floor button for you if it’s crowded, rather than push or lean through to do it yourself.

Don’t:

  • Squeeze yourself onto a full elevator; wait for the next one.
  • Force open the doors or attempt to leave the elevator.
  • Lose patience or panic. There is plenty of air in there, so please try to relax.
  • Blindly step onto the car. Watch your step so you don’t trip, as sometimes the floor and car don’t align perfectly.
  • Be hasty when entering and exiting. If you are near the door, exit first; if you are in the back, enter last.
  • Put an arm, cane, or briefcase inside closing doors to keep it open; wait for the next car.
  • Let children or pets run freely. Keep them beside you at all times.
  • Talk on your phone while in the elevator; not only is it rude, it can cause a distraction.
  • Engage in horseplay (i.e., playing with the controls, pushing, making excessive noise, shoving, swearing, smoking)
  • Lean on the doors or push someone else into the doors.
  • Board a crowded elevator when burdened with groceries, luggage or other bulky items that could crowd the car. Look for a freight elevator instead or wait for the next car.
  • Try to pry open the doors if you are stranded. Call for help and wait patiently.

Contact Mowrey Elevator

Mowrey Elevator is a big proponent of safety. That’s why we stand behind the quality and longevity of all the elevator parts we sell. View our online catalog or contact us with any emergency repair requests.