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GA Elevator Mechanic practice questions

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Question 1Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

Under the Georgia Elevator Code, who is responsible for obtaining the certificate of operation for a newly installed elevator before it is placed in service?

  1. The building owner or the owner's designated agent Correct answer.
  2. The elevator maintenance company under contract
  3. The elevator contractor that performed the installation
  4. The Georgia Office of Commissioner of Insurance inspector

Explanation

The certificate of operation is issued to the owner of the conveyance, and the owner (or an authorized agent) is the party that applies for and maintains it. The contractor and inspector participate in the process but do not hold the certificate. Responsibility stays with the owner even after maintenance is contracted out.

Question 2Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

In Georgia, elevator and escalator inspection and permitting authority for the Elevator Mechanic program is administered by which state office?

  1. Georgia State Board of Workers' Compensation
  2. Georgia Office of Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner Correct answer.
  3. Georgia Department of Public Health
  4. Georgia Department of Transportation

Explanation

Elevator and escalator safety regulation, including mechanic licensing and conveyance inspections, falls under the Georgia Office of Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner. That office issues certificates of operation and enforces the adopted elevator code. The other agencies regulate unrelated areas of public safety and transport.

Question 3Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

During a periodic inspection, an inspector finds the in-car emergency telephone dials out but no one answers and no automatic message identifies the building. What is the appropriate finding?

  1. Pass with a note to retest at the next annual inspection
  2. Pass, because the phone line connects successfully
  3. Fail only if the elevator is a fire service elevator
  4. Fail, because two-way communication must reach a continuously attended location Correct answer.

Explanation

Code requires means for two-way communication from the car to a location where a responsible person is continuously available to take action. A dial tone or unanswered call does not satisfy that requirement. The deficiency should be written up and corrected before the unit is relied upon for emergency response.

Question 4Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

What is the purpose of the governor on a traction elevator?

  1. To regulate the speed of the driving motor during acceleration
  2. To detect overspeed and mechanically trip the safety mechanism Correct answer.
  3. To maintain rope tension on the counterweight side
  4. To limit the travel of the car at the top landing

Explanation

The speed governor continuously monitors car speed and, when the car exceeds the set tripping speed, grips its rope and actuates the car safeties. It is a protective device, not a drive or tensioning component. Motor speed control and terminal stopping are handled by other systems.

Question 5Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

An escalator is being inspected and the comb plate teeth are visibly broken across a section of the comb. What action is required?

  1. The escalator may remain in service if the break is at the leading edge
  2. The broken teeth may be filed smooth and the unit returned to service
  3. The comb plate must be replaced before the unit is returned to service Correct answer.
  4. The unit may operate until the next scheduled maintenance visit

Explanation

Comb plates are a passenger-safety component that catches objects and prevents them from entering the comb/skirt gap. Broken or missing teeth create an entrapment hazard and require replacement of the comb plate. Repairing by filing is not an accepted substitute for a damaged comb.

Question 6Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

The rated load for a passenger elevator is calculated using a minimum of how much area per person?

  1. 1.5 square feet (0.14 square meters)
  2. 1.0 square foot (0.09 square meters)
  3. 3.0 square feet (0.28 square meters)
  4. 2.0 square feet (0.19 square meters) Correct answer.

Explanation

Capacity is computed from the net available car floor area using a standard allowance per standing passenger. The adopted elevator code uses 2.0 square feet (0.19 square meters) per person for passenger elevators. This figure drives the rated load posted on the certificate and the data plate.

Question 7Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

Which device is required to prevent the car from traveling past the top landing if normal stopping and terminal limiting devices fail?

  1. Counterweight guide shoe
  2. Final terminal stopping device Correct answer.
  3. Car door interlock
  4. Governor tension sheave

Explanation

Final terminal stopping devices act as a last line of protection to stop the car or counterweight beyond the normal terminal stopping point. They are independent of the normal stopping system so a single failure does not allow overtravel. Door interlocks and guide shoes perform unrelated functions.

Question 8Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

A mechanic is asked to verify that a machine-room disconnect is properly located. Which statement reflects the code requirement for a traction elevator?

  1. The disconnect may be placed anywhere on the same floor as the machine room
  2. The disconnect must be installed inside the controller cabinet
  3. The disconnect must be within sight of the machine and readily accessible Correct answer.
  4. The disconnect must be located at the main building service panel

Explanation

The main line disconnect must be located where it is visible from and readily accessible to the machine space, so a person servicing the equipment can confirm power is off. Placing it remotely or inside a cabinet defeats lockout and servicing safety. The requirement applies to both machine-room and machine-space-less designs with specific allowances.

Question 9Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

During a test, a car safety is set and the car continues to slide on the guide rails without developing sufficient retarding force. Which condition most directly explains this result?

  1. The safety jaws or guide rail surfaces are worn or improperly adjusted Correct answer.
  2. The counterweight is heavier than the car
  3. The governor tripping speed is set too low
  4. The car door operator is misaligned

Explanation

Car safeties develop stopping force by gripping the guide rails through the safety jaws. Worn jaws, contaminated or worn rail surfaces, or incorrect adjustment prevent the safety from generating the required retarding force. Governor tripping speed affects when the safety applies, not how much grip it produces.

Question 10Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

An inspector observes that the pit ladder in an elevator hoistway terminates 4 feet above the pit floor and has no accessible handhold extension. What is the correct finding?

  1. Acceptable, because the pit is less than 8 feet deep
  2. Acceptable, because a portable ladder may be used in the pit
  3. Deficient, because the ladder must extend to a reachable height and provide a handhold Correct answer.
  4. Deficient only if the pit contains a sump pump

Explanation

Hoistway pit ladders must be permanently installed and arranged so a person can reach them safely from the pit floor, including a handhold above the landing surface. A ladder ending well above the floor without a reachable handhold is a fall hazard. Pit depth and sump pumps do not waive this requirement.

Question 11Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

A hydraulic elevator is observed to level below the landing and then slowly rise back to floor level after the doors open. Which condition best explains this behavior?

  1. A leaking down valve allows gradual pressure loss and re-leveling Correct answer.
  2. The governor is tripping intermittently
  3. The car door interlock is misadjusted
  4. The counterweight is out of balance

Explanation

Hydraulic units maintain level through valve control; a leaking or poorly seating down valve allows the car to sink, and the leveling circuit then restores it to floor level. This produces the characteristic sink-and-relevel cycle. Governor tripping and door interlocks produce different symptoms and would not cause slow sinking.

Question 12Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

When testing the firefighter's service Phase I recall, the car is on independent service and does not return when the lobby key switch is turned. What is the most likely cause?

  1. The governor rope is loose
  2. The car is in independent service, which overrides Phase I recall until canceled Correct answer.
  3. The lobby key switch is defective
  4. The door operator has failed

Explanation

Independent service takes the car out of automatic group operation and prevents Phase I recall from functioning until the independent service switch is returned to normal. Once independent service is canceled, the recall should proceed. A defective key switch or door failure would present differently.

Question 13Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

During an escalator inspection, the inspector measures the clearance between the step tread and the skirt panel. Why is this dimension critical?

  1. It determines the rated speed of the escalator
  2. It controls the step chain tension
  3. It sets the braking distance of the unit
  4. It limits the gap where shoes or objects can become entrapped Correct answer.

Explanation

The step-to-skirt clearance is a passenger-safety dimension; excessive gap permits shoes, clothing, or objects to be drawn into the moving joint. Code sets a maximum allowable clearance, and the skirt guard or deflector devices supplement it. Chain tension, rated speed, and braking are governed by other criteria.

Question 14Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

An elevator machine room contains the controller, driving machine, and a sprinkler head. What is the code concern regarding the sprinkler?

  1. Sprinkler heads must be located directly above the controller
  2. Sprinklers are permitted only if the room has a floor drain
  3. Sprinkler piping and heads must be arranged so water does not discharge onto electrical equipment Correct answer.
  4. Sprinklers are prohibited in machine rooms under all circumstances

Explanation

Where sprinklers are installed in elevator machine rooms, the code requires that electrical equipment be protected from water discharge, typically through shielding, guard devices, or locating heads to avoid direct spray on equipment. Sprinklers are not categorically prohibited. Floor drains and head placement above controllers are not the governing concern.

Question 15Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

A mechanic is installing a new suspension rope set on a traction elevator. Which practice is required before returning the unit to service?

  1. Reduce the rated load on the data plate
  2. Replace the governor at the same time as the ropes
  3. Equalize rope tensions and verify the governor rope is properly tensioned Correct answer.
  4. Increase the counterweight to compensate for new rope stretch

Explanation

New ropes must be installed as a matched set, tensioned equally, and the governor rope checked so the safety system operates correctly. Unequal tension causes uneven wear and can affect traction and leveling. Governor replacement, counterweight changes, and derating the capacity are not routine consequences of a rope change.

Question 16Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

An inspector finds that the car door reopen device does not function when a test object is placed in the door's path during closing. What is the required corrective action?

  1. Repair or adjust the reopening device so the door reverses on obstruction Correct answer.
  2. Adjust the door close speed to the minimum setting
  3. Add a sign warning passengers not to obstruct the door
  4. Reduce the door open time to limit exposure

Explanation

The car door reopening device is a required safety feature that must cause the door to reopen when an obstruction is detected during closing. It must be repaired or adjusted to function as designed. Signs, timing changes, or speed adjustments do not substitute for a functioning reopening device.

Question 17Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

What does the term 'clear hoistway' enclosure requirement address for an elevator installation?

  1. The spacing of guide rail brackets
  2. The lighting level inside the machine room
  3. The interior finish of the car ceiling
  4. The enclosure of the hoistway to prevent access by unauthorized persons and protect adjacent spaces Correct answer.

Explanation

The hoistway must be enclosed with fire-rated construction and access controlled so unauthorized persons cannot enter and so adjacent occupancies are protected. This requirement addresses the physical separation of the hoistway from other building spaces. Car finish, rail brackets, and machine-room lighting are separate code items.

Question 18Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

A mechanic is verifying that the elevator recall system operates correctly. Which sequence should occur when a smoke detector in the elevator lobby activates?

  1. The car proceeds to the top floor and shuts down
  2. The car stops at the nearest floor and holds the doors closed
  3. The car returns to the main lobby and parks with doors open
  4. The car returns to the designated alternate level and parks with doors open Correct answer.

Explanation

Upon lobby smoke detection, Phase I recall sends the car to the designated alternate recall level, where it parks with doors open. Main lobby recall is initiated by a detector in the machine room or hoistway, not the lobby. Stopping at the nearest floor or running to the top floor does not match the required sequence.

Question 19Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

During an annual inspection, an inspector notes that the escalator's handrail is frayed and the splice is separating. What is the appropriate action?

  1. The unit may operate until the next quarterly maintenance
  2. The escalator may remain in service with a caution tag
  3. The splice may be glued and the unit returned to service
  4. The handrail must be replaced before the unit is returned to service Correct answer.

Explanation

A frayed or separating handrail is a passenger-safety hazard because handrails must provide a continuous, graspable surface. The handrail must be replaced before the escalator is returned to service. Adhesive repair of a separating splice is not an accepted fix, and caution tags do not allow continued operation with a known hazard.

Question 20Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

A mechanic is evaluating whether a new elevator installation requires a machine-room-less design with a machinery space. Which code consideration most directly affects the design decision?

  1. The color of the car interior finish
  2. The number of passengers expected daily
  3. The need for adequate access and working clearances for maintenance and inspection Correct answer.
  4. The building's exterior façade material

Explanation

Regardless of machine-room or machine-space-less design, the code requires safe access and adequate working clearances for maintenance, inspection, and testing. The design decision must preserve those clearances and access paths. Finish color, daily ridership, and façade materials do not drive this code requirement.

Question 21Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

A car is equipped with a door interlock that permits the car to start with the door open about 1 inch. What is the correct interpretation?

  1. Acceptable if the car is on independent service
  2. Deficient only if the car is a freight elevator
  3. Deficient, because the interlock must prevent car motion unless the door is closed and locked Correct answer.
  4. Acceptable, because the gap is small

Explanation

Door interlocks are required to prevent car motion unless the car door and hoistway door are closed and locked within the code tolerance. A 1-inch open gap exceeds what the interlock should permit, indicating misadjustment. Gap size tolerance is defined in the code and does not permit a 1-inch opening.

Question 22Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

An inspector is evaluating the stopping distance of a car safety during a test at rated speed. The measured distance exceeds the code maximum. Which factor is least likely to be the cause?

  1. Car interior lighting level Correct answer.
  2. Incorrect governor tripping speed
  3. Contaminated guide rail surfaces
  4. Worn safety jaws

Explanation

Stopping distance depends on the safety jaws, rail condition, and the speed at which the governor trips the safety. Car interior lighting has no effect on the mechanical stopping performance. Excess stopping distance should prompt inspection of the jaws, rails, and governor settings.

Question 23Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

During an escalator brake test, the unit stops but the stopping distance exceeds the code limit. Which combination of factors should the mechanic investigate first?

  1. Brake lining condition and brake adjustment Correct answer.
  2. Balustrade lighting and deck color
  3. Comb plate alignment and skirt clearance
  4. Handrail speed and step chain lubrication

Explanation

Excessive stopping distance on an escalator most directly points to the brake system: lining wear, contamination, and adjustment of the brake affect stopping performance. Handrail speed, lubrication, comb alignment, and cosmetic items do not govern braking distance. The brake should be inspected and adjusted or repaired before the unit is returned to service.

Question 24Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

An elevator is installed in a building with a below-grade pit that contains a sump. The inspector finds the pit floor drains to the sump but the sump pump is not operational. What is the appropriate finding?

  1. Acceptable, because the pit depth is shallow
  2. Deficient only if the elevator is hydraulic
  3. Deficient, because accumulated water creates a hazard and the means to remove it must function Correct answer.
  4. Acceptable, because the pit has a drain

Explanation

Pits must be kept dry; standing water creates slip, electrical, and equipment hazards. A non-functioning sump pump means the pit cannot be reliably drained and should be corrected. The presence of a drain or shallow pit depth does not excuse a failed pump, and the requirement applies to traction and hydraulic units.

Question 25Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

A mechanic is reviewing the firefighter's service Phase II operation. When the car is on Phase II with the key in the 'on' position, which behavior is required?

  1. The car responds only to the in-car Phase II key and constant-pressure buttons Correct answer.
  2. The car opens its doors and holds them open indefinitely
  3. The car returns to the main lobby automatically
  4. The car resumes normal automatic operation

Explanation

Phase II places the car under direct firefighter control: it moves only in response to the in-car key and constant-pressure car buttons, and it will not return automatically or resume group operation. Doors operate with the door open and close buttons under the same constant-pressure control. Automatic return and indefinite door hold are not Phase II behaviors.

Question 26Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

Under the elevator code, what is the minimum required clearance between the hoistway enclosure and the car platform, measured vertically, to prevent a person from being crushed at the landing?

  1. 6 inches
  2. 18 inches Correct answer.
  3. 24 inches
  4. 12 inches

Explanation

The code requires a minimum vertical clearance of 18 inches between the hoistway enclosure and the car platform edge to prevent a person from being caught between the car and the landing sill during a runaway or unintended movement. This clearance is measured at the landing where the car stops.

Question 27Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

A governor is being installed on a traction elevator. At what speed must the governor trip the safety mechanism relative to the rated speed of the car?

  1. At 115% of rated speed Correct answer.
  2. At 100% of rated speed
  3. At 125% of rated speed
  4. At 140% of rated speed

Explanation

The code requires the governor to trip the car safety at 115% of the rated speed of the car, ensuring the safety engages before the car reaches dangerous overspeed. This setting is verified during acceptance testing.

Question 28Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

Which component is required to protect against the slackening of suspension ropes on a traction elevator?

  1. A slack rope switch Correct answer.
  2. A car door interlock
  3. A pit oil buffer
  4. A governor tripping switch

Explanation

A slack rope switch is required to detect when suspension ropes lose tension, such as when the car is obstructed or a rope fails, and to remove power from the driving machine. This prevents further movement that could compound the hazard.

Question 29Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

During a periodic inspection, an inspector is checking the car door operator. Which condition requires that the car be taken out of service until corrected?

  1. The door operator motor runs slightly warmer than ambient
  2. The door closes with a slight audible bump at the sill
  3. The door reopen device fails to reverse the door when a test object is placed in its path Correct answer.
  4. The door panel has minor cosmetic scratches

Explanation

The car door reopen device is a safety feature that must reverse the door when an obstruction is detected. Failure of this device presents an entrapment hazard and requires the unit be removed from service until repaired.

Question 30Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

What is the minimum required headroom above the car crosshead in the hoistway when the car is at its highest landing, measured to the nearest obstruction?

  1. 24 inches Correct answer.
  2. 12 inches
  3. 18 inches
  4. 36 inches

Explanation

The code requires a minimum of 24 inches of overhead clearance above the car crosshead when the car is at the top landing, measured to the nearest obstruction in the hoistway. This clearance protects against injury during maintenance access.

Question 31Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

An escalator is equipped with a skirt panel and a skirt guard. What is the primary purpose of the skirt guard?

  1. To reduce the risk of entrapment between the step and skirt panel Correct answer.
  2. To illuminate the step tread area
  3. To support the handrail return
  4. To provide a mounting surface for the comb plate

Explanation

The skirt guard is a device mounted adjacent to the skirt panel to reduce the gap and minimize the risk of entrapment of objects or clothing between the moving step and the stationary skirt. This is a key safety feature of escalator design.

Question 32Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

Which device on a hydraulic elevator is required to prevent the car from descending at excessive speed if the hydraulic system loses pressure?

  1. A governor
  2. A rupture valve Correct answer.
  3. A plunger grip
  4. A slack rope switch

Explanation

A rupture valve is required on hydraulic elevators to stop the car from descending at excessive speed if the hydraulic line ruptures or loses pressure. It closes automatically when flow exceeds a set rate.

Question 33Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

When a mechanic is testing the firefighter's service Phase I recall, which condition must cause the car to return to the designated landing?

  1. The door open button is pressed
  2. A lobby smoke detector activates Correct answer.
  3. The car is placed on independent service
  4. The key switch is turned to the 'off' position

Explanation

Activation of a lobby smoke detector initiates Phase I recall, causing the car to return non-stop to the designated landing with doors open. This is the primary trigger for firefighter's service recall.

Question 34Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

A mechanic is installing an escalator in a building where the unit will be exposed to weather. Which requirement applies to the escalator's electrical equipment?

  1. It must be de-energized during rain
  2. It must be rated for outdoor use and properly enclosed Correct answer.
  3. It must be placed in a separate room
  4. It must be installed with a rain sensor

Explanation

When an escalator is installed where it is exposed to weather, the electrical equipment must be rated for outdoor use and enclosed to prevent moisture entry. This protects against electrical hazards and equipment failure.

Question 35Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

An inspector is reviewing the machine room ventilation for a traction elevator. What is the code requirement regarding machine room temperature?

  1. The room must be maintained between 40°F and 100°F
  2. The room must be maintained between 32°F and 104°F Correct answer.
  3. The room must be maintained between 60°F and 80°F
  4. The room must be maintained between 50°F and 90°F

Explanation

The code requires the machine room to be maintained between 32°F and 104°F to ensure proper operation of the driving machine and electrical equipment. Temperatures outside this range can cause equipment malfunction or failure.

Question 36Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

During a test of the car safety on a traction elevator, the car is loaded to 125% of rated load and the safety is set. What is the required result?

  1. The car must stop within 12 inches
  2. The car must stop without developing excessive retardation
  3. The car must stop and the governor must reset automatically
  4. The car must stop and remain stationary without slipping Correct answer.

Explanation

When the car safety is tested at 125% of rated load, the car must stop and remain stationary without slipping on the guide rails. This verifies the safety can hold the loaded car securely.

Question 37Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

A mechanic is troubleshooting an elevator that will not start. The car door is fully closed and locked. Which component should the mechanic check first to confirm the door is properly locked?

  1. The hall call button
  2. The door interlock switch Correct answer.
  3. The car door reopen device
  4. The door operator motor

Explanation

The door interlock switch verifies that the car door is fully closed and locked before the car is permitted to start. If the interlock is not made, the car will not run.

Question 38Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

An inspector is evaluating the clearance between the escalator step and the skirt panel. What is the maximum allowable gap at the step tread level?

  1. 1/8 inch
  2. 1/4 inch
  3. 3/8 inch Correct answer.
  4. 1/2 inch

Explanation

The code limits the clearance between the step tread and the skirt panel to a maximum of 3/8 inch to reduce the risk of entrapment. Larger gaps increase the potential for objects or clothing to be caught.

Question 39Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

A mechanic is reviewing the pit of a new elevator installation. Which condition in the pit would require correction before the unit is placed in service?

  1. The pit ladder terminates at the pit floor Correct answer.
  2. The pit floor is dry and clean
  3. The pit is provided with a sump and pump
  4. The pit lighting is operational

Explanation

The pit ladder must terminate at a height above the pit floor to allow safe access and prevent the ladder from being obstructed by water or debris. A ladder terminating at the pit floor is a code violation.

Question 40Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

During an inspection of a traction elevator, the inspector notes that the counterweight is equipped with a safety device. Under what condition is a counterweight safety required?

  1. When the counterweight is not provided with a governor
  2. When the counterweight is located in a hoistway accessible to unauthorized persons Correct answer.
  3. When the counterweight exceeds 500 pounds
  4. When the counterweight is suspended by a single rope

Explanation

A counterweight safety is required when the counterweight is located in a hoistway that is accessible to unauthorized persons, to prevent the counterweight from falling and causing injury. This protects against a hazardous condition in accessible areas.

Question 41Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

An inspector is checking the operation of the escalator brake. The escalator is stopped with a full load of passengers. What is the primary function of the brake in this scenario?

  1. To provide emergency stopping only
  2. To reverse the direction of travel
  3. To hold the escalator stationary when stopped Correct answer.
  4. To slow the escalator during normal operation

Explanation

The brake's primary function is to hold the escalator stationary when it is stopped, preventing the steps from moving under load. It also provides stopping capability in an emergency.

Question 42Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

An inspector is evaluating the stopping distance of a car safety during a test at rated speed. The measured distance exceeds the code limit. Which factor is most likely responsible?

  1. The oil buffer is overfilled
  2. The car door is not fully closed
  3. The safety is not developing sufficient retardation force Correct answer.
  4. The governor tripping speed is set too low

Explanation

If the car safety does not develop sufficient retardation force, the stopping distance will exceed the code limit. This indicates a problem with the safety mechanism that must be corrected.

Question 43Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

A mechanic is reviewing the firefighter's service Phase II operation. When the car is on Phase II with the key in the 'on' position, which action is required to move the car?

  1. The car moves only when a car button is pressed and held Correct answer.
  2. The car moves only after the door is fully closed
  3. The car moves only when the hall call button is pressed
  4. The car moves automatically to the designated landing

Explanation

In Phase II operation, the car moves only when a car button is pressed and held, allowing the firefighter to control movement precisely. Releasing the button stops the car.

Question 44Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

An inspector finds that the escalator's handrail is frayed and the splice is separating. What is the correct action?

  1. The escalator may operate at reduced speed
  2. The escalator may remain in service with a warning sign
  3. The handrail may be taped as a temporary repair
  4. The escalator must be removed from service until repaired Correct answer.

Explanation

A frayed handrail with a separating splice presents a serious safety hazard and the escalator must be removed from service until the handrail is repaired or replaced. Temporary measures such as tape are not acceptable.

Question 45Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

A mechanic is evaluating whether a new elevator installation requires a machine-room-less design with a machinery space. Which statement reflects the code requirement?

  1. A machinery space is required only for hydraulic elevators
  2. A machinery space may be omitted if the equipment is designed for it and accessible for maintenance Correct answer.
  3. A machinery space is always required for traction elevators
  4. A machinery space is required only for elevators over 5 stories

Explanation

The code permits the omission of a machinery space when the equipment is specifically designed for machine-room-less installation and is accessible for maintenance and inspection. This allows modern MRL designs while ensuring serviceability.

Question 46Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

A car is equipped with a door interlock that permits the car to start with the door open about 1 inch. What is the correct evaluation of this condition?

  1. This is acceptable if the door reopen device is functional
  2. This is acceptable because the gap is small
  3. This is acceptable if the car is on independent service
  4. This is a violation because the interlock must prevent starting with the door open beyond the allowed tolerance Correct answer.

Explanation

The door interlock must prevent the car from starting when the door is open beyond the small tolerance allowed by the code. A 1-inch gap exceeds the permitted tolerance and is a violation.

Question 47Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

During a test of a hydraulic elevator, the car is loaded to rated load and the down valve is opened fully. The car descends at a speed exceeding the rated speed by 20%. Which device should have prevented this?

  1. The rupture valve Correct answer.
  2. The slack rope switch
  3. The governor
  4. The oil buffer

Explanation

The rupture valve is designed to close and stop the car if the descent speed exceeds a set limit due to a hydraulic line failure or valve malfunction. A 20% overspeed indicates the rupture valve did not function properly.

Question 48Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

An inspector is reviewing the emergency operation of an escalator during a power failure. What is the required behavior of the escalator brake?

  1. The brake must release to allow the escalator to coast to a stop
  2. The brake must sound an alarm
  3. The brake must allow manual rotation of the steps
  4. The brake must automatically set and hold the escalator stationary Correct answer.

Explanation

On power failure, the escalator brake must automatically set and hold the escalator stationary to prevent uncontrolled movement. This is a critical safety requirement.

Question 49Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

A mechanic is testing the car safety on a traction elevator at rated speed. The car stops but the retardation exceeds the code limit. Which combination of factors is most likely responsible?

  1. Governor trip speed too high and safety too weak
  2. Governor trip speed too low and safety too weak
  3. Governor trip speed too low and safety too aggressive Correct answer.
  4. Governor trip speed too high and safety too aggressive

Explanation

Excessive retardation occurs when the safety engages too abruptly, often because the governor trips at too low a speed combined with an aggressive safety setting. This produces a sudden stop that exceeds the allowed retardation limit.

Question 50Elevator and escalator code compliance and inspection

An elevator is installed in a building with a below-grade pit that contains a sump. The inspector finds the pit floor drains directly to the sanitary sewer without a trap. What is the code concern?

  1. The drain may clog with debris
  2. The drain may freeze in winter
  3. The drain may reduce pit lighting
  4. The drain may allow sewer gas to enter the hoistway Correct answer.

Explanation

A pit drain connected directly to the sanitary sewer without a trap can allow sewer gas to enter the hoistway, creating a health and safety hazard. A trap is required to prevent this.