What to Do With Elevators During a Flood

6/24/2021 (Permalink)

One of the most common problems that we run into when performing water damage restoration for commercial property managers is damage to the elevators.

Your elevators (and your escalators) are complex machines that can become very dangerous if they suffer any kind of flooding or damage. Knowing how to react when there’s been a water intrusion is vital for keeping your building safe and functional.

Before the Water Comes

The best favor that you can do for yourself is to prepare.

In part, that means proper maintenance. Make sure that your elevators have a functional surge protector, and that their standby generator works properly if you have one in place. You should also regularly test the emergency lighting and phone system.

You should also replace or repair any run-down components. If the doors have become corroded, the vents or doors are leaking, or the weather stripping has come up, it should be addressed.

Past that, you should consider installing a sump pump and a float switch. The float will prevent the elevator from running to the bottom if the pit floods, and the sump pump will enable you to pump out the water and restore your elevator to proper operation.

When the Water Comes

When a water intrusion does occur (perhaps due to a firefighting effort, or a storm), it’s important to act fast.

Run your elevators to the top landings and cycle the doors shut. If it’s safe, you may one to keep one elevator operational for emergency personnel and the disabled, but it’s wise to disconnect the rest in the machine room.

If you have tenants who rely on the elevators, you should consider evacuating them, especially if the crisis is ongoing. Often, the fire department may legally have to be the organization that coordinates this evacuation.

After the Water Comes

Ensure that no one is trapped in the elevators – if they are, call for emergency assistance.

Do not turn your elevators back on until they’ve undergone a thorough inspection. Check the machine room and the elevator pits for water, as well as the control panels and the elevators themselves.

If there has been damage, call your elevator company for assistance. If SERVPRO is on-site, we may be able to help you with drying your elevators so that they can be brought into operation faster.

Document damage in the greatest possible detail. Take photographs, save damaged components and call your insurance company immediately if you intend to put in a claim.

By following these steps, you’ll be able to stay as safe as possible, and get your life back to normal faster, if your elevators get wet during a flood.