Applying the ASME A17.1 Elevator Code to Elevator Modernization

This article focuses on the modernization and alteration requirements of the 2004 national ASME A17.1 Elevator Safety Code as defined in section 8.7. Each local jurisdiction may have different requirements based on different editions of ASME A17.1 or local requirements differing from A17.1. A secondary focus will be on modernizing elevators for facilities that demand a 24/7/365 usage situation.

The first step in understanding how to apply the Code is to understand the difference between a repair and an alteration, or modernization.

Alteration: any change to equipment, including its parts, components, and/or subsystems, other than maintenance, repair, or replacement¹. [For the purpose of this article, “modernization” shall be used in lieu of the phrase, “alteration”].

Repair: reconditioning or renewal of parts, components, and/or subsystems necessary to keep equipment in compliance with applicable Code requirements¹.

Examples of both conditions are presented in the following table:

¹ ASME Section 1.3 Definitions

As you can see from this very short list in the table, an elevator modernization can quickly become complicated. Careful coordination of your building outside the elevator equipment itself is required. Therefore, before any elevator modernization, you must consider the following tasks:

1. Why are you thinking about modernizing your elevator?
2. Do I only need partial upgrades and repairs?
3. Is this all I need to do?

Unlike a new construction project, elevator modernizations are rarely designed by an architect or engineer planning the total building project. This means that an elevator modernization often causes problems for owners during the project and at times, after the elevator portion of the project is completed.

This is often due to the fact that the elevator Code requires more work than a typical elevator contractor is trained to do. Many of the common coordination issues likely to be encountered are outlined later.

Thinking about modernizing your elevator?

It is important to examine the reason a modernization is being considered and determine your goals in an elevator modernization. Do not simply trust your elevator contractor who claims that your equipment is obsolete. Most of the time replacement parts can be purchased from many reputable sources, including the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM).

A careful review of your maintenance agreement should verify what is and is not included. We are often called to review elevator modernization agreements and find that up to half the value of their proposal includes work already included in the existing maintenance agreement!

This article is not intended to answer all conditions related to elevator modernizations, but will provide a few questions for consideration:

1. Improved reliability?: Covered repairs may get you what you need if you can enforce your current maintenance agreement.
2. “Faster Elevators”: You may not need faster elevators; you may need smarter elevators, using smarter dispatching technology. Remember though, if you don’t have enough elevators to start with, modernization may not solve this problem.
3. Obsolete elevators: There are certainly obsolete, unreliable elevators that should be modernized.

Do I only need partial upgrades and repairs?

Now that you have carefully reviewed your elevator situation, you may determine that you only need to enforce the terms of the maintenance agreement you have with your elevator contractor. You may also determine that you need to only replace certain components to achieve your elevator improvement goals.

Is this all I need to do?

This is perhaps the most important question that requires consideration. Since elevator modernizations are complex problems, this article can only highlight the most common elevator modernization questions that you need to resolve before proceeding with an elevator modernization.

Assuming that you have resolved the scope of work and the goal of your elevator modernization, the following list includes the most common Code issues that require careful coordination and concern.

1. Is this elevator on emergency power now? How will it operate after the modernization?
2. Does the machine room now require air conditioning?
3. Is the present electrical system adequate for the new elevator drive system?
4. Is there any non elevator equipment in the elevator machine rooms that must be removed?
5. Are there any changes to the hoistway, pit, or machine room construction?
6. How is the elevator connected to the fire alarm system?

The acceptance test is a vital phase of your project that helps you ensure that your project complies with code and is ready to improve your facility operations.

A final note on elevator modernizations: Be wary of pre-engineered elevator systems. Those types of systems are not designed for the 24/7/365 environment a hospital encounters. They are good elevator systems – for department stores, apartments, and office buildings.