Testing Elevator

The way elevator services are broken down is similar to taking care of a car. Every certain number of miles, your vehicle needs basic care like an oil change or filter replacement. But when you reach a milestone, like 30,000 miles, your car typically needs more extensive services like rotating the tires and topping off certain fluids. If you don’t take care of these necessary services, your car could run into serious, costly issues.

Failing to abide by elevator testing and inspection requirements set by your state and jurisdiction can have serious consequences. One of the most important tests that absolutely must be performed is the elevator load test.

What is an elevator load test?

In New England, many states require cars to pass annual inspections to ensure vehicles are safe to be on the road. Elevators go through a similar process called a load test.

This is a state-required procedure intended to make sure that elevators are continuously able to lift their rated (maximum) load at their rated (maximum) speed. The elevator technicians performing the load test will be looking at the car speed when it both rises and falls.

During the test, elevators are loaded to their weight capacity to make sure all safety systems are properly operating. This is done with special elevator test weights. In some states, 125% of the rated load is placed inside of the elevator cab. For example, if an elevator’s capacity is 2,000 lbs., the load test will require 2,500 lbs. This also ensures that the brake system is working properly. Load tests also include an assessment of how the elevator operates with no load.

Is This the Same as a Pressure Test?

A full-load test is different than a pressure test. Pressure tests should be performed on hydraulic elevators annually.

How often should elevator load tests be performed?

State and local regulations require building owners and operators to have their elevator systems frequently inspected to ensure public safety. Typically, this includes annual inspections in order to receive a certification that proves the elevators are up to code.

Although full elevator inspections are an annual requirement, load tests don’t need to be performed as frequently. Both hydraulic elevators and elevators that are supported by cables should receive a full-load test once every 5 years. Hydraulic elevators also require annual pressure relief testing.

Elevator Load Testing Requirements by State

MA	ME	NH	RI
Full-load every 5 years	Full-load every 5 years	Full-load every 5 years	Full-load every 5 years

What if I don’t have my elevators tested?

If your elevators don’t receive the proper inspections and certificates when necessary, they can be taken out of commission.

Think about the number of people who rely on your elevators every day to get to where they need to be. If your elevators aren’t properly tested and inspected, these people could be in danger.

Putting off routine testing and maintenance can also deteriorate your elevators, which can cause bigger issues down the road.

Do you have an elevator maintenance contract?

Some elevator maintenance contracts will cover 5-year full-load safety tests. However, some limited service agreements may not cover the cost of these tests, meaning you’ll need to pay out of pocket to have them performed. Be sure to check your elevator maintenance contract to see what services are covered so you’re prepared for any unexpected costs!

Stanley Elevator has a full-time elevator testing and inspection team ready to help, whenever you need it. Call or message us today so we can help you with your elevator load testing or any other inspection services you may need.

Understanding elevator load tests and elevator servicing

Elevator load tests are a crucial part of your elevator service and maintenance routine. Without them your elevators would be deemed unsuitable for use in an inspection. Most elevator users don’t stop to think how much load differences put stress on hoisting mechanisms, pulleys, sheaves, and counterweights. But for facility managers, whose responsibility it is to ensure that building elevators pass the state construction code and continue to work smoothly and consistently, load testing is a critical requirement.

How are elevator load tests conducted?

Load tests are conducted by elevator engineers who will check the movement of the elevator car in either direction. The engineer inspects whether the ropes remain in the right position, the brakes step in when applied, and that the elevator is stopping at the correct distance as per the applied codes.

The load test involves full load tests at capacities that are 25% over the highest rated load capacity of the elevator system in question. For example, if an elevator is rated to carry 4000 pounds as the maximum weight, the test will inspect capacity at 5000 pounds.

Tests will also be done when no load is placed on the elevator. The build and construction of the elevator plays an important part here. Elevator interiors built with reinforced steel or granite panels add their own weight to the system and this is to be considered when applying for load rating and performing the final load test.

How often should the full load test be conducted?

The standard for most states is 5 years for conducting a full load test.

Elevator Load Test Code Requirements
Each state has different elevator code requirements for conducting load tests. In Georgia, for example, the Safety Engineering department of the Fire Marshal’s office is the authority that approves the application and renewal of licenses, permits, and plans along with inspections.

Hydraulic elevators are required to pass elevator pressure testing every year. This is different from a load test.

Obtaining valid Certificates of Operation requires you to have a valid inspection report less than one year old which shows that no violations in the Annual Maintenance records have taken place from the appropriate regulating authority.

Elevators serve the vital function of vertical transport carrying people, cleaning dollies, ambulance stretchers, and several forms of heavy equipment. That they remain in top condition is crucial to attaining full functionality for hospitals, offices, factories, and commercial spaces.

Elevator services ensure that you don’t take on the headache of constantly changing building and maintenance codes and fall foul of regulations. You can make your job a lot easier and stop critical service disruptions by hiring a competent elevator maintenance and service company.

With elevator engineers primed and trained to prevent cost and time overruns, professional elevator load test services, such as the one provided by Premier Elevator Cabs, can save you plenty of trouble.

We are a reputed elevator service company offering a gamut of elevator related services, from manufacturing, maintenance, cladding, to elevator refinishing services. With more than 25 years of experience in the industry, we serve VA, MD, NC, DC, and DE.