Planning imposes lift codes

(CNS): Installations of elevators and other conveyance equipment on or after 1 May 2009 must meet the 2007 Safety Codes for Elevators and Escalators, published by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). These codes cover matters such as operation, inspection and repair. The adopted ASME codes will apply to conveyance equipment including elevators, escalators, moving walks, dumbwaiters, and material lifts. In addition, the department’s Building Control Unit is working with property owners and contractors to establish a date for implementing ASME’s safety code for existing elevators.

In a release from the Planning Department, Chief Building Control Officer Emerson Piercy reminds people in the elevator industry that all conveyance equipment installed or altered prior to 1 May 2009 is expected, at the time of any inspection, to be in compliance with the code published by ASME at the time of original installation or alteration. This includes any special variance allowances or conditions required for the installation.

“In instances where compliance with these requirements is not feasible, the department will evaluate the situation on a case-by-case basis, and apply the code that is best suited to the circumstances,” Piercy said. The new stipulations were reviewed during an 11 February Planning Department meeting with representatives from the Cayman Islands elevator industry. At that meeting the adoption of modern elevator codes; certificates of operation; and the permitting and inspection process were discussed.

Industry representatives and building owners who have questions may call Elevator Inspector Gerald Mazur on 769-1571 or 526-1571.