Essential Care for Elevators During Rainy Seasons

Worldwide, elevators transport an average of 2 billion people every day. Although this equipment is known as the safest means of transportation today, it is a machine and, therefore, requires quality preventive maintenance, as well as various precautions in specific situations, such as during the rainy season. Check out important recommendations below that can help avoid problems and keep the elevators in condominiums working correctly and safely. 

Be Aware of Lightning Strikes 

In cases of heavy rain, the occurrence of atmospheric electrical discharges is high, and they can cause short circuits in the building’s electrical system and even in the equipment. Electronic components such as control panels, wiring, and even motors can be affected, causing, thus, a sudden stop of the elevators, as well as damage to the equipment. 

During this period, extra care is essential. The first recommended action is to maintain constant attention and, if possible, request that authorized and trained personnel turn off the elevators at the main switch, located mainly in the machine room. Another important tip is to prefer the stairs, at least during heavy rain. 

Flooding of the Shaft or Machine Room 

Very heavy rain with gusts of wind can cause leaks in the machine room and even flooding in the elevator shaft. In the first case, it is essential to check if the electrical equipment has not been affected, and the elevator should be turned off by authorized and trained personnel at the main switch. 

In cases of water in the shaft, it is recommended that the elevators be stopped on higher floors to avoid water entering the cabin, in addition to turning off the equipment at the main switch to prevent damage to electrical and electronic components. If necessary, the Maintenance Call Center of the responsible company should be contacted for guidance. 

Power Outages and Passengers Trapped in the Cabin 

If there is a power outage or fluctuation, it is best to have the elevators turned off by authorized personnel and for residents to use the stairs until power is fully restored. Power fluctuations can cause electrical damage to the elevator panels and, if the building does not have a generator, the chances of a passenger getting trapped in the cabin due to the sudden stop of the equipment increase. 

In this case, it is advisable for the passenger to wait inside the cabin. It was designed to ensure the passenger’s safety and is equipped with air circulation. The maintenance company responsible should be contacted to carry out a safe rescue or, as a last resort, the Fire Department of the Military Police. Do not attempt to exit the elevator under any circumstances. Remember that if the power returns, it may move. 

Covers and Umbrellas 

Prevention is key! Advise passengers not to use the elevator with wet covers or umbrellas. Ideally, they should be placed inside a plastic bag, for example. This is important because, as they drip, they create a small accumulation of water on the elevator floor that can damage the electrical components. 

Special Care: Children and Pets 

During the rainy season, special care must be taken with children and pets. 

Children under 12 should not ride in elevators alone, but always in the presence and supervision of an adult. Often, children tend to play inside the cabin, whether jumping, pressing various buttons, holding the door with their hands, or talking on the intercom. Although these activities seem harmless, they increase the risk of a possible malfunction, damage, and even unexpected stops of the equipment. It is recommended not to jump inside the elevator or play with the intercom, avoid pressing the buttons multiple times, and never obstruct the closing of the doors with hands. 

To ensure the safety of pets, special attention is necessary when entering and exiting the elevator with animals. The recommendation is to keep the pet in the lap, but, if not possible, using proper leashes and collars helps prevent accidents if the animal is kept close to the body at all times. Remember that the elevator’s light curtain may not detect a collar that is too narrow. 

Daily Care: Elevator Maintenance and Accident Prevention 

In addition to all the care and tips discussed, it is important to emphasize that quality maintenance of elevators is the best solution to avoid unexpected stops and maintain availability. It is what ensures safety for the equipment and all passengers, improves performance, and extends the life of the equipment. 

As a leader in vertical transportation in Brazil and worldwide, Atlas Schindler offers the most comprehensive maintenance service in the market, even if the elevator is from another brand. To learn more, click here. 
 
Andréia Nolasco, General Operations Manager at Atlas Schindler