MD Elevator Mechanic study plan

Map the scope of ASME A17.1/A17.3 as adopted in Maryland, listing which parts apply to electric elevators, hydraulic elevators, and escalators

Define the clearance and runby requirements for car and counterweight (top, bottom, pit depth, overhead) and state the code basis for each

Trace the power flow from service disconnect through controller, motor, and brake for a traction elevator, labeling each component

Build a personal glossary of at least 40 code and equipment terms with a one-line definition each

Identify the required safety devices on a traction elevator (governor, safeties, buffers, final limits, door interlocks) and state the tripping condition for each

Explain the difference between Type A, B, and C safeties and where each is permitted

Calculate stopping distances and buffer stroke allowances for a given rated speed using the code formulas

Describe hydraulic system components (jack, power unit, valve, rupture valve, tank) and their code-required protections

Outline the required periodic inspection and test intervals for elevators and escalators under Maryland-adopted rules, including Category 1 and Category 5 testing

List the contents of a maintenance record and the records an inspector will ask to see during a survey

Walk through lockout/tagout steps for a controller before entering the hoistway or pit

Identify pit and hoistway fall-protection, lighting, and access requirements and explain why each exists

Summarize the Maryland licensing framework: the authority that regulates elevator contractors and mechanics, license classes, and renewal cycles

Differentiate the responsibilities of the licensed mechanic, the contractor, and the third-party inspector

Practice three emergency scenarios (entrapment, unintended car movement, escalator stop) and write the correct response sequence for each

Explain permit and inspection notification requirements before placing a unit in service

Troubleshoot a door operator fault using a systematic voltage-and-signal approach and document the decision tree

Describe governor and safety testing procedure step by step, including reset and verification after test

Explain escalator drive, brake, step chain, and handrail safety circuits and the tests that confirm them

List the electrical test instruments a mechanic carries and the measurement each is used for

Compare the code requirements for escalator and moving walk clearances, comb plates, and skirt guards against elevator requirements

Identify common code violations found during inspections and the corrective action for each

Explain the disciplinary and enforcement process for a mechanic or contractor found out of compliance in Maryland

Describe continuing education or code-update obligations tied to license renewal

Take a timed 60-question mixed practice set and log every missed question by domain

Re-study the two weakest domains using your week 1-6 notes and glossary

Recite the safety-device matrix and Maryland compliance summary from memory

Review code formulas (stopping distance, buffer stroke, runby) until you can apply them without notes

Complete two full-length timed practice exams under test conditions

Review every missed item and confirm you can state the correct answer and why the distractors are wrong

Final-review the glossary, safety matrix, and Maryland summary in three short sessions

Confirm exam-day logistics: location, identification, allowed materials, and arrival time