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Risk Assessment for installing an elevator
Generated on: June 10, 2025

Installing an elevator involves numerous hazards that require careful risk assessment and mitigation. Here's a breakdown of potential hazards and control measures:

1. Construction and Installation Hazards:

  • Permits and Compliance: Ensure all construction and installation activities comply with local regulations and safety codes 1, 9. Obtain necessary construction permits from the relevant authorities before commencing any work [1].
  • Structural Integrity: The elevator installation must adhere to safety standards and be free from defects that could cause serious injury [2]. All material hoist towers should be designed by a licensed professional engineer 12, 15.
  • Electrical Safety: Electrical hazards are significant during elevator installation. Ensure a disconnecting means is readily accessible to qualified persons [3]. The disconnecting means must be capable of being locked in the open position 2, 7. Warning signs should be placed where multiple disconnecting means are used [3].
  • Falling Objects: Implement measures to prevent tools or objects from falling from platforms or raised areas [4]. Install toe boards or solid/mesh panels to contain objects [4].
  • Hoisting Hazards: Ensure material hoists meet safety standards [5]. Personnel hoists used by employees shall be constructed of materials and components which meet the specifications for materials, construction, safety devices, assembly, and structural integrity as stated in the American National Standard A10.4-1963, Safety Requirements for Workmen's Hoists [6]. Never allow workers to ride on material hoists [5].
  • Confined Spaces: Elevator pits can be considered confined spaces. Follow confined space entry procedures, including air monitoring, ventilation, and rescue planning.
  • Falls from Heights: Ladders in pits should be mounted safely [7]. Ensure ladders are highly visible [8]. Maintain three-point contact when ascending or descending a fixed ladder [8].

2. Operational Safety Hazards:

  • Emergency Preparedness: Passenger elevators should have a standby power source for emergency lighting and alarms [7]. Emergency signaling devices should have a minimum sound rating of 80 dB [7].
  • Fire Safety: Elevators having a travel of fifty-four (54) feet from the lowest point of entry to the building shall conform to the requirements of ANSI/ASME A17.1, 1987 edition, Rules 211.3 through 211.8 [7]. Existing installations shall have a conspicuous sign installed at each landing immediately adjacent to the push button station to inform the public that in a fire emergency they should not use the elevator but should use the exit stairs [7].
  • Maintenance and Inspection: Regular inspections and tests of all functions and safety devices are crucial [6]. All safety devices provided by the manufacturer shall be maintained to operate properly 1, 5. The owner of every facility shall have available on the premises any keys needed for access to machinery spaces and operation of the facility [7].

3. Control Measures:

  • Elimination: Where possible, eliminate hazards by choosing inherently safer designs or methods.
  • Engineering Controls: Install physical barriers, guards, and safety devices to prevent falls, electrical contact, and other hazards.
  • Administrative Controls: Develop and implement safe work procedures, training programs, and permit systems. Ensure proper lockout/tagout procedures are followed during maintenance and repair [9].
  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Provide and ensure the use of appropriate PPE, such as hard hats, safety glasses, gloves, and fall protection equipment.

4. Monitoring and Review:

  • Regularly inspect the elevator installation site to identify and address any new or changing hazards.
  • Review safety procedures and training programs periodically to ensure they remain effective and up-to-date.
  • Investigate all incidents and near misses to identify root causes and implement corrective actions.

By systematically addressing these hazards and implementing appropriate control measures, the risks associated with elevator installation can be significantly reduced.


Important Safety Note:

Always verify safety information with your organization's specific guidelines and local regulations.

References

Page links are approximate
[1]↑

Occupational Safety & Health: General State Regulations (Chapter 71)

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Page 123

[2]↑

Occupational Safety & Health: General State Regulations (Chapter 71)

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Page 120

[3]↑

Safety Standards for General Safety and Health Standards (Chaper 296-24 WAC)

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Page 457

[4]↑

Canada Occupational Health and Safety Regulations (SOR/86-304)

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Page 29

[5]↑

Occupational Health and Safety Code

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Page 77

[6]↑

Rules for the Administration of the Oregon Safe Employment Act (Construction, Division 3, OSHA Oregon)

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Page 653

[7]↑

Occupational Safety & Health: General State Regulations (Chapter 71)

Open Document

Page 122

[8]↑

Canada Occupational Health and Safety Regulations (SOR/86-304)

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Page 27

[9]↑

Rules for the Administration of the Oregon Safe Employment Act (General Occupational Safety and Health, Division 2, OSHA Oregon)

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Page 1769

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