I85PREP
⌘ K
IL Elevator Mechanic study materials
IL Elevator Mechanic study resources

IL Elevator Mechanic practice questions

One question at a time. Build your IL Elevator Mechanic understanding.

First 50 of 200 questions. Each one lists the choices, the correct answer, and an explanation. The checker at the top of this page saves progress in this browser when it is available.

Continue in the practice tool above to load more questions, 50 at a time.

Question 1Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

Under ASME A17.1/CSA B44, what is the maximum allowable rise for a single hydraulic elevator run before a stop or jack arrangement change is required?

  1. 60 ft (18.3 m) Correct answer.
  2. 40 ft (12.2 m)
  3. 75 ft (22.9 m)
  4. 50 ft (15.2 m)

Explanation

The code limits a single hydraulic jack run to 60 ft (18.3 m) of travel. Beyond that, the design must use multiple stages or other approved arrangements to control plunger stability and guide loading.

Question 2Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

For a traction elevator, the code requires a minimum overhead clearance measured from the top of the car crosshead to the overhead structure. What purpose does this clearance primarily serve?

  1. Allowing lubrication of the guide rails
  2. Permitting rope stretch during loading
  3. Providing refuge and stopping distance during buffer engagement Correct answer.
  4. Accommodating the counterweight sheave

Explanation

Overhead clearance provides a safe refuge space for maintenance personnel and allows the car to travel through its stopping distance when it strikes the buffer. It is calculated from the car top and crosshead to the nearest overhead obstruction.

Question 3Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

A new elevator installation requires a pit ladder. According to A17.1, which condition makes a pit ladder mandatory?

  1. Pit depth exceeds 5 ft (1.5 m)
  2. Pit depth exceeds 3 ft (0.9 m) Correct answer.
  3. Pit depth exceeds 10 ft (3.0 m)
  4. Pit depth exceeds 8 ft (2.4 m)

Explanation

A permanent pit ladder is required whenever the pit depth exceeds 3 ft (0.9 m). This gives mechanics a safe means of egress from the pit without relying on the car.

Question 4Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

What is the minimum required clearance between the car door and the hoistway door (the running clearance) when the car is at a landing?

  1. 1 in (25 mm)
  2. 1/4 in (6.4 mm) Correct answer.
  3. 1/2 in (13 mm)
  4. 3/8 in (9.5 mm)

Explanation

The code sets the maximum clearance between the car door and hoistway door at a landing to 1/4 in (6.4 mm) to reduce the risk of a passenger's hand being caught. Larger gaps create an entrapment hazard.

Question 5Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

Which device is required on a passenger elevator to prevent the car from moving with its doors open unless the car is at a landing within the door zone?

  1. Door zone detector and car door interlock Correct answer.
  2. Oil buffer
  3. Counterweight guide shoe
  4. Governor

Explanation

A door zone detector combined with the car door interlock ensures the car cannot move unless it is within the landing zone and the doors are closed and locked. This prevents shear and crush hazards at the landing.

Question 6Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

What is the required minimum illumination at the elevator car floor and at the landing sill when the car is at a landing?

  1. 5 foot-candles (54 lux) Correct answer.
  2. 10 foot-candles (108 lux)
  3. 1 foot-candle (11 lux)
  4. 20 foot-candles (215 lux)

Explanation

A17.1 requires at least 5 foot-candles (54 lux) of illumination at the car floor and at the landing sill. This lighting level supports safe entry and exit and is measured when the car is at the landing.

Question 7Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

On an escalator, which component is designed to stop the unit if an object becomes caught between the step and the skirt panel?

  1. Handrail speed sensor
  2. Skirt panel safety device Correct answer.
  3. Step chain tensioner
  4. Comb plate switch

Explanation

The skirt panel safety device (skirt guard switch) detects an object trapped between the step and the skirt and initiates a stop. It protects against the common pinch hazard at the step-to-skirt interface.

Question 8Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

Under A17.1, what is the maximum permitted speed for an escalator?

  1. 150 ft/min (0.75 m/s)
  2. 180 ft/min (0.9 m/s)
  3. 100 ft/min (0.5 m/s)
  4. 125 ft/min (0.63 m/s) Correct answer.

Explanation

The code limits escalator speed to 125 ft/min (0.63 m/s) to allow safe boarding and alighting. Higher speeds increase fall risk at the comb plate.

Question 9Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

A mechanic is installing a new traction elevator and must determine the required clearance between the car and the hoistway enclosure. Which code provision governs this horizontal clearance?

  1. The clearance is set by the manufacturer only and not by code
  2. The car must clear the enclosure by at least 2 in (51 mm) on all sides
  3. The car must clear the hoistway enclosure by at least 3/4 in (19 mm) on all sides Correct answer.
  4. The car may contact the enclosure if guide shoes are present

Explanation

A17.1 requires a minimum horizontal clearance of 3/4 in (19 mm) between the car and the hoistway enclosure to prevent rubbing and to accommodate building movement. The clearance is a code minimum regardless of manufacturer preference.

Question 10Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

During a periodic inspection, a mechanic finds that the car safety device on a traction elevator is set to trip at 115% of rated speed. What does the code require for governor tripping speed?

  1. Trip speed must be exactly 100% of rated speed
  2. Trip speed must be at least 125% and not more than 150% of rated speed
  3. Trip speed must be at least 115% and not more than 140% of rated speed Correct answer.
  4. Trip speed must be at least 90% and not more than 105% of rated speed

Explanation

The governor must trip the safety at a speed not less than 115% and not more than 140% of rated speed. This range ensures the safety engages before the car reaches a dangerous overspeed while avoiding nuisance trips.

Question 11Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

A hydraulic elevator is being installed with a direct-plunger jack. The mechanic must verify the pressure relief valve setting. What is the maximum allowable setting relative to the system's full-load pressure?

  1. 115% of full-load pressure
  2. 150% of full-load pressure
  3. 100% of full-load pressure
  4. 125% of full-load pressure Correct answer.

Explanation

The pressure relief valve must be set to open at not more than 125% of the full-load pressure of the hydraulic system. This limits the pressure the jack and piping can see during a blocked or overloaded condition.

Question 12Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

An escalator's handrail must be synchronized with the step speed. During testing, the mechanic measures handrail speed at 102% of step speed. What action does the code require?

  1. The handrail drive must be adjusted to bring speed within tolerance
  2. No action; the tolerance permits up to 105% Correct answer.
  3. The step speed must be increased to match the handrail
  4. The escalator must be removed from service permanently

Explanation

A17.1 allows the handrail to run at a speed within a tolerance of about 2% above or below the step speed under normal load. A measured 102% falls within the permitted tolerance, so no correction is required.

Question 13Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

A new passenger elevator is being designed for a building. The mechanic must confirm the required number of stop switches in the pit. What does the code require?

  1. No stop switch is required in the pit
  2. One stop switch located at the pit ladder Correct answer.
  3. One stop switch near the pit entrance and one at the pit bottom if the pit is deep
  4. Two stop switches on the car top only

Explanation

A17.1 requires a stop switch in the pit located so it is accessible from the pit ladder or entrance. It allows a mechanic to stop the equipment before entering the pit.

Question 14Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

During a car top inspection, the mechanic observes that the car top railing is 36 in (914 mm) high. What does the code require for car top guardrails on new installations?

  1. No guardrail is required if the car top is used for inspection
  2. A guardrail at least 42 in (1067 mm) high with a top rail and intermediate rail Correct answer.
  3. A guardrail at least 36 in (914 mm) high with no intermediate rail
  4. A guardrail at least 48 in (1219 mm) high with a solid panel

Explanation

New car tops intended for inspection must have a guardrail at least 42 in (1067 mm) high with a top rail and an intermediate rail. This protects mechanics working on the car top from falling into the hoistway.

Question 15Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

A mechanic is testing the final limit switch on a traction elevator. The car is driven to the top terminal landing and continues past it. What is the required function of the final limit switch?

  1. It must sound an alarm only
  2. It must stop the car before the counterweight strikes the buffer
  3. It must open the power circuit and stop the car independent of the normal terminal stopping device Correct answer.
  4. It must reverse the car to the nearest landing

Explanation

The final limit switch is a redundant protective device that opens the power circuit to stop the car if the normal terminal stopping device fails. It operates independently of the normal stopping means.

Question 16Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

An inspector is reviewing the machine room ventilation for a new traction elevator. What does A17.1 require regarding machine room temperature?

  1. The room must be maintained between 60°F and 110°F (16°C and 43°C)
  2. The room must be maintained between 40°F and 90°F (4°C and 32°C) Correct answer.
  3. The room must be maintained between 50°F and 100°F (10°C and 38°C)
  4. No temperature control is required

Explanation

The code requires the machine room to be maintained within a temperature range of 40°F to 90°F (4°C to 32°C) for proper equipment operation. Excess heat can degrade insulation and cause control failures.

Question 17Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

A mechanic is verifying the emergency phone in a new elevator car. What does the code require for two-way communication?

  1. It must connect only to the fire department
  2. It must dial the building manager's office during business hours only
  3. It must connect to a 24-hour attended location and operate without the building power Correct answer.
  4. It must be a cellular phone mounted in the car

Explanation

A17.1 requires two-way communication that connects to a 24-hour attended location and operates on emergency power. This ensures passengers can summon help during a power failure or entrapment.

Question 18Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

During an escalator inspection, the mechanic measures the clearance between the step and the skirt panel. What is the maximum permitted gap at the step-to-skirt interface?

  1. 1/8 in (3 mm)
  2. 3/8 in (9.5 mm)
  3. 1/4 in (6.4 mm)
  4. 3/16 in (4.8 mm) Correct answer.

Explanation

The maximum clearance between the step and the skirt panel is 3/16 in (4.8 mm) to limit entrapment risk. Larger gaps allow objects and clothing to be drawn into the interface.

Question 19Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

A mechanic must verify the stopping distance of a traction elevator equipped with oil buffers. What does the code require for the buffer stroke under rated load and speed?

  1. The buffer stroke is set by the manufacturer and not regulated
  2. The buffer must stop the car in less than 1 in (25 mm) of travel
  3. The buffer must bring the car to rest within its stroke without exceeding the permitted deceleration Correct answer.
  4. The buffer may allow the car to bottom out if the load is light

Explanation

Oil buffers must absorb the car's energy and bring it to rest within the stroke while keeping deceleration within code limits. Bottoming out indicates the buffer is improperly sized or the stopping distance is excessive.

Question 20Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

A mechanic is installing a new escalator and must confirm the required balustrade height. What is the minimum height of the balustrade above the steps?

  1. 48 in (1219 mm)
  2. 30 in (762 mm)
  3. 36 in (914 mm) Correct answer.
  4. 42 in (1067 mm)

Explanation

The balustrade must be at least 36 in (914 mm) high measured vertically above the step nose to prevent passengers from falling over the side. The handrail rides on top of the balustrade.

Question 21Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

A mechanic is troubleshooting a traction elevator that fails to level at a landing. Which code requirement governs the maximum allowable leveling accuracy for a passenger elevator?

  1. The car must level within 1/2 in (13 mm) of the landing sill Correct answer.
  2. The car must level within 1 in (25 mm) of the landing sill
  3. The car must level within 2 in (51 mm) of the landing sill
  4. The car must level within 1/4 in (6.4 mm) of the landing sill

Explanation

A17.1 requires the car to level within 1/2 in (13 mm) of the landing sill under normal loading conditions. This tolerance prevents tripping hazards at the landing.

Question 22Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

A mechanic is evaluating a hydraulic elevator that uses a plunger with a packing gland. During a pressure test, the mechanic observes seepage at the packing. What does the code require regarding packing leakage?

  1. Seepage is permitted only if it drains onto the pit floor
  2. Any seepage is prohibited and the unit must be shut down immediately
  3. A slight seepage that lubricates the packing is acceptable and must be collected Correct answer.
  4. Seepage is permitted only during the first 30 days of operation

Explanation

A17.1 recognizes that a slight seepage at the packing is normal for lubrication and requires that it be collected and piped to a sump or drain. Free drainage onto the pit floor is not permitted.

Question 23Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

A mechanic is reviewing the seismic requirements for a new elevator installation in a high-seismic zone. Which provision must the design address?

  1. Seismic design is satisfied by adding counterweight guide shoes
  2. Seismic design is optional if the building has a sprinkler system
  3. Seismic design applies only to the machine room
  4. Guide rails and their supports must resist seismic forces and retain the car and counterweight Correct answer.

Explanation

In seismic zones, A17.1 requires guide rails, supports, and related components to resist seismic forces and keep the car and counterweight within the guide rails. This prevents derailment and structural damage during an earthquake.

Question 24Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

A mechanic is testing a traction elevator's ascending car overspeed protection. Which device is required to detect and stop an ascending car that exceeds its rated speed?

  1. Car door interlock
  2. Ascending car overspeed protection (ACOP) Correct answer.
  3. Counterweight safety device
  4. Governor rope tensioner

Explanation

ACOP is required to detect an ascending car overspeed condition and stop the car, addressing the risk of a counterweight-related runaway. It is separate from the descending governor safety.

Question 25Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

A mechanic is verifying the requirements for a machine-room-less (MRL) elevator. What does the code require regarding the machinery space for an MRL installation?

  1. The machinery space may be open to the public if the equipment is guarded
  2. The machinery space must be accessible only to authorized personnel and protected against unauthorized access Correct answer.
  3. The machinery space must be located at the top of the hoistway only
  4. The machinery space must be enclosed and locked like a traditional machine room

Explanation

For MRL elevators, the machinery space must be secured so that only authorized personnel can access the equipment. The code allows the space to be within the hoistway but requires guarding and access control.

Question 26Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

A mechanic is installing a new passenger elevator and must determine the required clearance between the car and the hoistway enclosure under A17.1. What is the minimum clearance required on the sides and top of the car?

  1. 2 in (51 mm)
  2. 1 in (25 mm) Correct answer.
  3. 3 in (76 mm)
  4. 4 in (102 mm)

Explanation

A17.1 requires a minimum clearance of 1 in (25 mm) between the car and the hoistway enclosure on the sides and top, unless a larger clearance is specified for specific conditions such as seismic requirements. This clearance ensures that the car does not contact the hoistway structure during normal operation and allows for building settlement and deflection.

Question 27Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

During an inspection of an escalator, the mechanic measures the vertical clearance between the step and the skirt panel. What is the maximum permitted clearance under A17.1?

  1. 1/4 in (6 mm)
  2. 3/8 in (9 mm) Correct answer.
  3. 5/8 in (16 mm)
  4. 1/2 in (13 mm)

Explanation

A17.1 limits the clearance between the step and the skirt panel to a maximum of 3/8 in (9 mm) to minimize the risk of objects or clothing becoming trapped. This dimension is critical for passenger safety and must be verified during installation and periodic inspections.

Question 28Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

A mechanic is testing the emergency brake on a hydraulic elevator. According to A17.1, what is the maximum allowable stopping distance for the car when the emergency brake is applied?

  1. 18 in (457 mm)
  2. 12 in (305 mm)
  3. 24 in (610 mm) Correct answer.
  4. 30 in (762 mm)

Explanation

A17.1 requires that the emergency brake on a hydraulic elevator bring the car to a stop within a maximum distance of 24 in (610 mm). This requirement ensures that the brake can effectively stop the car in an emergency without excessive travel.

Question 29Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

An inspector is verifying the requirements for the machine room of a new traction elevator. What is the minimum required lighting level in the machine room under A17.1?

  1. 30 fc (323 lx)
  2. 19 fc (205 lx) Correct answer.
  3. 10 fc (108 lx)
  4. 50 fc (538 lx)

Explanation

A17.1 requires a minimum illumination of 19 fc (205 lx) at the floor level in the machine room. This level of lighting is necessary for safe maintenance and inspection activities.

Question 30Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

A mechanic is installing a new elevator and must provide a means to prevent the car from moving with the hoistway door open. Which device is required by A17.1 to accomplish this?

  1. Car door operator
  2. Door interlock Correct answer.
  3. Emergency stop switch
  4. Hoistway door closer

Explanation

A17.1 requires a hoistway door interlock that prevents the car from moving unless all hoistway doors are closed and locked. The interlock is a safety device that ensures the car cannot start or continue motion if a hoistway door is not secured.

Question 31Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

During a periodic inspection, a mechanic finds that the car safety device on a traction elevator is set to trip at 115% of rated speed. What is the maximum speed at which the safety must trip according to A17.1?

  1. 100% of rated speed
  2. 140% of rated speed Correct answer.
  3. 125% of rated speed
  4. 110% of rated speed

Explanation

A17.1 requires that the car safety device on a traction elevator trip at a speed not exceeding 140% of the rated speed. This maximum allows for some overspeed before the safety engages, while ensuring it will operate in an emergency.

Question 32Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

A hydraulic elevator is being installed with a direct-plunger jack. The mechanic must verify the pressure relief valve setting. According to A17.1, the relief valve must open at what pressure relative to the full-load pressure?

  1. 200% of full-load pressure
  2. 150% of full-load pressure
  3. 100% of full-load pressure
  4. 125% of full-load pressure Correct answer.

Explanation

A17.1 requires the pressure relief valve on a hydraulic elevator to open at a pressure not exceeding 125% of the full-load pressure. This setting protects the system from overpressure while allowing normal operation.

Question 33Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

An escalator's handrail must be synchronized with the step speed. During testing, the mechanic measures handrail speed at 100 ft/min (0.51 m/s) and step speed at 100 ft/min (0.51 m/s). What is the maximum allowable deviation between handrail and step speed under A17.1?

  1. 0%
  2. 2% Correct answer.
  3. 10%
  4. 5%

Explanation

A17.1 allows a maximum deviation of 2% between the handrail speed and the step speed. This ensures that passengers holding the handrail do not experience a sudden change in speed relative to the steps.

Question 34Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

A new passenger elevator is being designed for a building. The mechanic must confirm the required number of stop switches in the hoistway. According to A17.1, what is the minimum number of stop switches required in the hoistway pit?

  1. One Correct answer.
  2. Three
  3. Four
  4. Two

Explanation

A17.1 requires at least one stop switch in the hoistway pit. This switch allows a mechanic to stop the elevator from the pit during maintenance or inspection.

Question 35Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

During a car top inspection, the mechanic observes that the car top railing is 36 in (914 mm) high. What does the code require for the height of the car top railing?

  1. 30 in (762 mm)
  2. 36 in (914 mm) Correct answer.
  3. 48 in (1219 mm)
  4. 42 in (1067 mm)

Explanation

A17.1 requires the car top railing to be at least 36 in (914 mm) high. This height provides a barrier to prevent mechanics from falling off the car top during inspection and maintenance.

Question 36Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

A mechanic is testing the final limit switch on a traction elevator. The car is driven to the top terminal landing and continues past it. What is the maximum distance the car may travel beyond the terminal landing before the final limit switch stops it?

  1. 3 in (76 mm) Correct answer.
  2. 1 in (25 mm)
  3. 4 in (102 mm)
  4. 2 in (51 mm)

Explanation

A17.1 requires the final limit switch to stop the car within a maximum distance of 3 in (76 mm) beyond the terminal landing. This limit prevents the car from traveling too far into the overhead space.

Question 37Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

An inspector is reviewing the machine room ventilation for a new traction elevator. What does A17.1 require regarding machine room ventilation?

  1. Ventilation must be provided to maintain a temperature not exceeding 120°F (49°C) Correct answer.
  2. No ventilation is required if the machine room is air-conditioned
  3. Mechanical ventilation must maintain temperature below 100°F (38°C)
  4. Natural ventilation is sufficient

Explanation

A17.1 requires that the machine room be ventilated to maintain a temperature not exceeding 120°F (49°C). This prevents overheating of the elevator machinery and controls.

Question 38Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

During an escalator inspection, the mechanic measures the clearance between the step and the skirt panel. What is the maximum permitted clearance under A17.1?

  1. 5/8 in (16 mm)
  2. 1/2 in (13 mm)
  3. 3/8 in (9 mm) Correct answer.
  4. 1/4 in (6 mm)

Explanation

A17.1 limits the clearance between the step and the skirt panel to a maximum of 3/8 in (9 mm). This dimension is critical to prevent objects from becoming trapped between the step and the skirt.

Question 39Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

A mechanic must verify the stopping distance of a traction elevator equipped with oil buffers. What does the code require for the maximum stopping distance when the car strikes the buffer?

  1. 24 in (610 mm) Correct answer.
  2. 12 in (305 mm)
  3. 18 in (457 mm)
  4. 30 in (762 mm)

Explanation

A17.1 requires that the oil buffers on a traction elevator bring the car to a stop within a maximum distance of 24 in (610 mm). This limit ensures that the buffer can absorb the energy of the car safely.

Question 40Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

A mechanic is installing a new escalator and must confirm the required balustrade height. What is the minimum height of the balustrade above the step?

  1. 36 in (914 mm) Correct answer.
  2. 48 in (1219 mm)
  3. 42 in (1067 mm)
  4. 30 in (762 mm)

Explanation

A17.1 requires the balustrade of an escalator to be at least 36 in (914 mm) high above the step. This height provides a barrier to prevent passengers from falling over the side.

Question 41Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

A mechanic is troubleshooting a traction elevator that fails to level at a landing. Which code requirement governs the maximum allowable difference between the car floor and the landing sill?

  1. 1/4 in (6 mm)
  2. 3/4 in (19 mm)
  3. 1/2 in (13 mm) Correct answer.
  4. 1 in (25 mm)

Explanation

A17.1 requires that the car floor be level with the landing sill within a maximum of 1/2 in (13 mm) when the car is at rest. This tolerance ensures safe passenger transfer and is checked during maintenance.

Question 42Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

A mechanic is evaluating a hydraulic elevator that uses a plunger with a packing gland. During a pressure test, the mechanic must verify the packing gland does not leak excessively. What is the maximum allowable leakage rate under A17.1?

  1. Leakage is not regulated
  2. A few drops per minute Correct answer.
  3. No leakage allowed
  4. A steady stream

Explanation

A17.1 allows a small amount of leakage from the packing gland, typically described as a few drops per minute, to lubricate the plunger and packing. Excessive leakage indicates a need for adjustment or replacement.

Question 43Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

A mechanic is reviewing the seismic requirements for a new elevator installation in a high-seismic zone. Which provision is required by A17.1 for escalators in seismic areas?

  1. Automatic shutdown upon seismic detection
  2. Additional steps
  3. Increased handrail speed
  4. Seismic supports for the truss Correct answer.

Explanation

A17.1 requires that escalators installed in seismic areas be provided with seismic supports for the truss to prevent damage during an earthquake. These supports help maintain the structural integrity of the escalator.

Question 44Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

A mechanic is testing a traction elevator's ascending car overspeed protection. Which device is required to detect and stop an ascending car that exceeds a predetermined speed?

  1. Brake
  2. Buffer
  3. Governor
  4. Ascending car overspeed detector Correct answer.

Explanation

A17.1 requires an ascending car overspeed protection device that detects when the car is moving upward at an excessive speed and stops it. This device is separate from the governor, which primarily protects against descending overspeed.

Question 45Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

A mechanic is verifying the requirements for a machine-room-less (MRL) elevator. What does the code require regarding the location of the machinery for an MRL elevator?

  1. Machinery must be on the car top
  2. Machinery must be in a separate closet
  3. Machinery may be located in the hoistway Correct answer.
  4. Machinery must be in a dedicated machine room

Explanation

A17.1 permits the machinery for a machine-room-less elevator to be located within the hoistway, provided that specific safety requirements are met, such as guarding and access. This eliminates the need for a separate machine room.

Question 46Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

A mechanic is installing a new electric traction elevator and must verify the required lighting level in the machine room. Under ASME A17.1, what minimum illumination must be provided at the floor level of the machine room?

  1. 19 ft-candles (205 lx)
  2. 5 ft-candles (54 lx)
  3. 10 ft-candles (108 lx) Correct answer.
  4. 2 ft-candles (22 lx)

Explanation

ASME A17.1 requires machine spaces to be provided with permanent lighting that gives at least 10 ft-candles (108 lx) at the floor level, measured with the normal supply energized. This level allows mechanics to safely read nameplates, inspect ropes, and perform maintenance. Lower levels are acceptable only in specific locations such as inside the pit, which has its own minimum.

Question 47Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

During a periodic inspection of a passenger elevator, the mechanic verifies the operation of the door reopening device. Under ASME A17.1, the device must be capable of reopening the car door when an object is detected within what distance from the leading edge of the door?

  1. 18 in (457 mm)
  2. 2 in (51 mm) Correct answer.
  3. 12 in (305 mm)
  4. 6 in (152 mm)

Explanation

The kinetic energy of a closing car door is limited, and the reopening device must detect an obstruction in the zone extending from the leading edge of the door to at least 2 in (51 mm) beyond it, measured at the threshold. This ensures a person or object at the door edge triggers reopening before significant force is applied. The device must also reopen the door within a specified time and remain effective for the full door travel.

Question 48Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

A mechanic is commissioning a new hydraulic elevator and must set the car-speed governor, if one is required. Under ASME A17.1, which condition determines whether a hydraulic elevator must be equipped with a car-speed governor?

  1. The rated speed exceeds 500 ft/min (2.5 m/s)
  2. The elevator uses a direct-plunger jack
  3. The rated speed exceeds 150 ft/min (0.75 m/s) Correct answer.
  4. The elevator serves more than six landings

Explanation

For hydraulic elevators, a car-speed governor is required when the rated speed exceeds 150 ft/min (0.75 m/s), and it must be set to trip at the specified overspeed. Slower hydraulic units rely on the pressure relief valve, the check valve, and the plunger stop as their protective means. The number of landings and the jack type do not by themselves trigger the governor requirement.

Question 49Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

A mechanic is reviewing the firefighter's emergency operation requirements for a new elevator installation. Under ASME A17.1/CSA B44, when a Phase I recall is initiated by smoke detectors in the elevator lobby, how must the car respond?

  1. It proceeds to the nearest landing and opens its doors regardless of smoke detection
  2. It remains at its current landing with doors closed until the alarm is cleared
  3. It proceeds nonstop to the designated recall floor with doors open, then parks with doors open Correct answer.
  4. It returns to the top terminal landing and shuts down with doors closed

Explanation

Phase I recall returns the car nonstop to the designated level, where it opens its doors and parks with doors open to allow firefighters access; if the designated level detector is the one activated, the car recalls to an alternate level. The car must ignore car calls during recall. Phase II then gives firefighters in-car control once the Phase I key switch is used.

Question 50Elevator and Escalator Code Requirements

A mechanic is analyzing an escalator installation where the steps, pallets, and handrails are all driven from a common power source. Under ASME A17.1, which requirement governs the relationship between the step speed and the handrail speed on each side?

  1. The handrail speed must exactly equal the step speed at all times with zero tolerance
  2. The handrail speed may differ from the step speed by up to 10% when the escalator is fully loaded
  3. The handrail speed must not deviate from the step speed by more than 2% on either side under any load condition Correct answer.
  4. The handrail speed must be at least 5% faster than the step speed to keep passengers upright

Explanation

Because the handrail and step drive are linked, the code permits only a small tolerance: the handrail speed on either side may not deviate from the step speed by more than 2%, and the handrails must remain synchronized with each other. This prevents passengers from being pitched forward or backward during travel. The tolerance is verified under both no-load and rated-load conditions.