GA Elevator Mechanic key terms

The model code adopted in Georgia that sets minimum requirements for elevator and escalator design, construction, installation, operation, inspection, testing, maintenance, and alteration. It is organized by equipment type and by requirement category.

A separate code that applies to already-installed equipment, specifying retroactive safety requirements such as door restrictors, car lighting, and pit access. It is used when upgrading existing units rather than new installations.

The initial performance test of a newly installed or altered elevator, witnessed by an inspector, that verifies safety devices, rated load operation, and code compliance before the unit is placed in service.

A recurring code-required examination of elevator or escalator equipment performed at set intervals to confirm continued safe operation and to identify deficiencies. Results are documented and reported to the authority having jurisdiction.

A routine periodic test performed at defined intervals that checks safety devices such as the governor, safeties, and buffers without a full load test. It is less extensive than a Category 5 test.

A more comprehensive periodic test, typically required every five years, that verifies rated load operation, safety device performance, and other items beyond the scope of a Category 1 test.

The government official or agency responsible for enforcing the elevator code, issuing permits, witnessing tests, and approving equipment for use. In Georgia this is typically the state fire marshal's office or a delegated local authority.

A document issued by the authority having jurisdiction permitting an elevator or escalator to be operated, valid only while required inspections and tests remain current. Operating without one is a violation.

A device that limits how far a car door can be opened from inside the car when the car is outside the landing zone, reducing the risk of passengers falling into the hoistway.

The vertical shaft in which an elevator car and counterweight travel, bounded by walls, guides, and landing openings. Its clearances, enclosure, and ventilation are governed by code requirements.

The portion of the hoistway below the lowest landing, containing buffers, the pit ladder, stop switch, and often the governor tension sheave. It must be accessible, drained, and illuminated per code.

A weighted assembly that travels opposite the elevator car to balance the load and reduce motor effort. It rides on guide rails and must be guarded and provided with safeties where required.

An overspeed detection device mounted at the top of the hoistway that, when the car exceeds a set speed, trips the safety mechanism to stop the car. It is tested periodically.

A braking device mounted on the car frame that grips the guide rails to stop and hold the car when the governor trips or the suspension fails. It must be tested and maintained.

A device in the pit that absorbs the impact of a descending car or counterweight if it overtravels the lowest landing. Buffers may be spring or oil type depending on rated speed.

Vertical steel members that guide the car and counterweight along their travel path and provide the surface that safeties grip during an emergency stop. Alignment and fastening are critical.

The wire ropes or belts that support the elevator car and counterweight. Their number, diameter, and condition are regulated, and they must be replaced when wear or broken wires exceed limits.

An elevator driven by a motor turning a sheave that moves the car through rope friction rather than by a drum or hydraulic piston. Common in mid- and high-rise buildings.

An elevator lifted by a hydraulic cylinder and piston powered by a pump and valve assembly. It typically serves low-rise buildings and requires specific valve and relief protections.

A grooved wheel over which suspension ropes or belts run, transmitting motion from the machine to the car and counterweight. Groove wear affects traction and must be monitored.

The space housing the driving machine, controller, and related equipment. It must be secured, ventilated, illuminated, and accessible only to authorized persons, with specific clearances.

The electrical panel and logic that govern elevator motion, door operation, and safety circuits. It interprets call and car signals and enforces safety chain conditions.

A series electrical circuit of switches and contacts that must remain closed for the elevator to run. Opening any device in the chain, such as a door switch or stop switch, removes power.

A mechanical and electrical device that prevents the car from moving unless all hoistway doors and the car door are closed and locked, and prevents doors from opening while the car moves.

The vertical region at a floor level within which the car floor is aligned closely enough with the landing for safe entry and exit. Door operation and leveling requirements depend on it.

The automatic adjustment that brings the car floor into alignment with the landing floor within a permitted tolerance when the car stops. Poor leveling creates a trip hazard.

A power-driven, continuously moving stairway with a stepped treadway and moving handrails used to carry passengers between floors. Its safety devices, clearances, and braking are code-regulated.

The toothed plate at each end of an escalator where the steps disappear into the floor. It meshes with step cleats, and its switches stop the unit if a step or foreign object jams.

The vertical side panel along an escalator's moving steps that keeps passengers' feet on the treadway. Clearance between step and skirt is limited, and skirt switches detect jams.

A safety feature that stops an escalator if a handrail's speed deviates from the step speed beyond a set limit, protecting passengers from loss of balance.

A procedure for de-energizing and physically locking energy sources before maintenance, with tags identifying the worker. It prevents accidental startup or release of stored energy during repairs.

Equipment and procedures, such as harnesses and guardrails, that prevent workers from falling from heights while servicing hoistways, pits, or machine spaces. Required by workplace safety rules.

The office within the Georgia Department of Insurance that administers elevator and escalator safety regulations, including permitting, inspection, and enforcement, under state law.

A state-issued credential authorizing a business to install, alter, service, or repair elevators and escalators in Georgia. Unlicensed contracting is prohibited and subject to penalties.

A credential demonstrating that an individual has met the training and examination requirements to perform elevator work. It is distinct from the contractor license held by the business.

Written authorization from the authority having jurisdiction required before starting installation or alteration work. It ensures plans are reviewed and inspections scheduled before equipment is placed in service.

Georgia rules adopted under the state fire safety framework that cover elevator and escalator installation, operation, and inspection, enforced alongside the national elevator code.