As building safety codes evolve, elevator communication systems must adapt to meet new requirements that prioritize inclusivity and rapid emergency response. The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) has introduced significant updates in its A17.1 standards, emphasizing the need for advanced communication capabilities in elevators.
Understanding ASME A17.1-2019 and 2022 Updates
ASME A17.1-2019 introduced pivotal changes to enhance passenger safety:
- Two-Way Communication: Elevators must provide two-way voice, video, and text communication between the elevator car and authorized personnel.
- Visual Messaging: A display system is required to enable text-based communication with passengers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech-impaired.
- Video Monitoring: For elevators with a rise of 60 feet or more, an onsite method for emergency personnel to view passengers anywhere inside the cab is mandated.
- Help Status Indication: Emergency personnel must have the ability to update in-cab messaging to indicate that help is present and responding.
ASME A17.1-2022 builds upon this foundation with a stronger focus on security, communication reliability, and remote access:
- Enhanced Communication Systems: Code-compliant solutions must offer resilient, uninterrupted two-way communication, even in the event of power or network failures.
- Video Communication Requirements: Systems must support real-time video observation, giving emergency responders clearer insight during entrapments or distress calls.
- Remote Monitoring Capabilities: Communication systems should include remote oversight functionality, enabling faster issue detection, diagnostics, and resolution.
- Improved Visual and Auditory Indicators: Systems must provide clear feedback to passengers, confirming their call for help has been received and that assistance is on the way.
- Cybersecurity Considerations: With increased connectivity comes the responsibility to secure elevator communication systems against unauthorized access or cyber threats.
Jurisdictions Enforcing ASME A17.1-2022
As of now, several U.S. states are either actively enforcing or expected to enforce the ASME A17.1-2022 elevator code due to their auto-adopt status. This includes:
- Georgia
- Mississippi
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- North Carolina
- South Carolina
These states automatically adopt the latest version of the ASME A17.1 code once it’s published, signaling a clear commitment to maintaining the highest standards in elevator safety and accessibility.
While other states like Illinois and Ohio have implemented earlier versions of the ASME A17.1 code (2019 and prior), they have yet to adopt the 2022 edition. However, the national trend points toward broader adoption of the most recent standards, reinforcing the need for building owners and facility managers to prepare now.
Proactively upgrading elevator communication systems not only ensures compliance with current codes but also prepares buildings for future regulatory changes, enhancing safety and inclusivity for all passengers.
Proactive Compliance with SmartView 2
At AVIRE, we understand the importance of meeting and exceeding safety standards. Our SmartView 2 system is engineered to align with both ASME A17.1 requirements, offering:
- Two-Way Voice and Visual Text Communication
- Video-Ready Technology for remote viewing during emergencies
- Remote Monitoring Support for quicker response times
- ADA, ASME, and IBC Code Compliance
- Built-In Redundancy to ensure communication continuity
By integrating SmartView 2 into your elevator systems, you not only achieve compliance but also demonstrate a commitment to passenger safety and accessibility.
Take Action
Don’t wait for mandates to catch up. Proactively upgrading your elevator communication systems is about more than just meeting code – it’s about protecting lives and promoting inclusivity.
Learn more about SmartView 2: https://www.avire-global.com/en-us/products/smartview-2-two-way-visual-communication/