Essential elevator care during rainy seasons

Every day around the world, elevators transport an average of 2 billion people. Although this equipment is known as the safest means of transport today, it is a machine and, therefore, needs to have quality preventive maintenance, in addition to various precautions in specific situations, such as in the case of the rainy season. Check out important recommendations below that can help avoid problems and keep your elevators functioning properly.os condominiums correctly and safely. 

Be careful with electrical discharges 

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

During this period, extra care is needed. The first recommended action is to maintain constant attention and, if possible, ask authorized and prepared personnel to turn off the elevators at the main switch, located mainly in the engine room. Another important tip is to opt for the stairs, at least during heavy rain. 

Flooding of the well or engine room 

Very heavy precipitation with gusts of wind can cause infiltration in the engine room and even flooding in the elevator shaft. In the first case, it is essential to check that the electrical equipment has not been affected, and the elevator must be turned off by an authorized and prepared person, using the main switch. 

In cases of water in the well, it is recommended that elevators be stopped on higher floors, in order to prevent water from entering the cabin, in addition to turning off the equipment at the main switch so as not to compromise the electrical and electronic components. If necessary, must be activated the Call Center of the company responsible for maintenance for guidance. 

Power outage and passengers trapped in the cabin 

If there is a power outage or fluctuation, the ideal is for the elevators to be turned off by an authorized person and for residents to use the stairs until the power is fully restored. Power fluctuations can cause electrical damage to elevator panels and, if the building does not have a generator, the chances of a passenger being trapped in the cabin increase when the equipment suddenly stops. 

In this case, it is recommended that the passenger wait inside the cabin. It was designed to ensure passenger safety and is prepared with air circulation. It is necessary to contact the responsible maintenance company to carry out the safe rescue or, as a last resort, the Military Police Fire Department. Do not attempt to exit the elevator under any circumstances. Remember that if the power returns, it can move. 

Capes and umbrellas 

It's worth preventing! Instruct passengers not to use the elevator with wet covers or umbrellas. Ideally, placeto them inside a plastic bag, for example. This is because, when they drain, they generate a small accumulation of water on the elevator floor that can damage electrical components. 

Special care: children and pets 

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

Children under 12 should not ride alone in elevators, but must always be in the presence and supervision of an adult. Children often play inside the cabin, either jumping, pressing various buttons, holding the door with their hands or talking on the intercom. These games, although harmless, increase the risk of a possible breakdown, damage and even unexpected stoppage of the equipment. It is recommended not to jump into the elevator or play with the intercom, avoid pressing the buttons several times and never prevent the doors from closing with your hands. 

To ensure the safety of your pets when entering and exiting the elevator, you need to be very careful when transporting the animals. A The tip is to keep the pet on your lap, but if this is not possible, using appropriate leashes and collars helps to avoid accidents if the animal is always kept next to the body. Keep in mind that the elevator light curtain may not identify the collar that is too narrow. 

Daily care: Maintenance of elevators and accident prevention 

In addition to all the precautions 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 guarantees the safety of the equipment and all passengers, improves performance and extends the useful life of the equipment. 

Leader in vertical transport in Brazil and the world, Atlas Schindler has the most complete maintenance service on the market, even if the elevator is from another brand. To know more, click here. 
 
Andréia Nolasco, general manager of Operations at Atlas Schindler