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URGENT SAFETY NOTICE

Elevators installed with more than 4 inches of “gap space” between the hoistway doors and the elevator car doors can pose a serious safety risk. Children may become entrapped in the space and could be seriously injured or killed. This risk can be reduced with the proper installation of space guards at each floor.

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Home Elevators are Safe for Children

Home elevators are safe for children and elders alike

Home elevators are safe for children and elders alike. It is natural to feel skeptical about having any new device in the home, but you can rest assured that home elevators do more good than harm. For a long time, residential elevators have been helping people, young and old, regain their mobility. In 2017, the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) mandated new safety codes that accounted for some significant concerns. We know that our customers have questions and we have answers. If you need more validity that home elevators are safe for children, then keep reading.

What Did the ASME Mandate?

The ASME decided to implement rules regarding the gap between the elevator door and its gate. The purpose of doing so was to reduce injuries and fatalities. The 3″x5″ mandate is the standard. No more than five inches should be between the exterior door and the gate. Children, especially smaller children are the reason why this rule exists.

But…What About Older Elevators?

The ASME mandates that the ‘3″x5″ rule’ is necessary for new residential elevator installation. But what about the negligence that took place before 2017?  A solution to this issue is space guards. Space guards attach to the inside of the elevator’s swing door and fill in any gaps that would allow anyone to get stuck in the space between the outside door and the elevator door or gate. They are entirely affordable and easy to install.

What Are Some Ways That I Can Keep My Child Safe?

First, you should read reviews online about the company that you may pick. We have a 5.0 rating, and our mechanics are highly-trained, professional, and licensed. Preferred Elevator Company is also bonded and insured. We provide 24/7 emergency service, annual servie agreements and inspections, so that you undeniably feel secure while using your residential elevator. We’ll also repair your device if it’s not up-to-par.

Second, you should always set guidelines for your children. Enforce that they do not use the elevator without adult supervision. If you feel as if your child is mature or old enough to operate the lift or they need it due to limited mobility, then practice with them how to work it safely. What may also bring you peace of mind is to measure the gap space. If it doesn’t apply to the “3×5” rule, then call us and get the area filled with space guards ASAP.

Preferred Elevator: We’re On the Up and Up!

For 11 years, Preferred Elevator has served residents in Central Maryland, Baltimore, and Washington, DC. You can rely on our experienced home installation team and quality products.

For our commercial elevator clients, we also provide annual inspections of your equipment to adhere to standards established by the state of Maryland. During these inspections, we make sure that your commercial mobility product is functioning correctly and efficiently. We’ll also go over all safety devices and customized features offered within your plan!

Get in touch with us! Our business hours are Monday-Friday 8 am -5 pm. Reach us by phone at 410-238-2555, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

This entry was posted on Friday, August 16th, 2019 at 3:25 pm. Both comments and pings are currently closed.

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    Preferred Elevator

    • 7110 Golden Ring Road
      Suite 102
      Essex, MD 21221
    • Phone: 410-238-2555
    • 24/7 Emergency Service
    • Business Hours:
      Monday–Friday: 8am–5pm
    • MHIC #123888
    • Elevators Contractors License #1186
    • DC License #ELC1300867