Safety Procedures and Worksite Practices
Controlling energy and access
Elevator work requires lockout/tagout, fall protection, PPE, and controlled access to the hoistway, pit, car top, and machine room. Before entering the pit, stop the car, open the pit stop switch, turn on pit lighting, and verify the pit ladder and escape route. On car top, use the inspection station and maintain communication. Never work alone in a hoistway if the task requires a second person. Barricade open hoistway entrances and post warning signs. Electrical work follows NFPA 70E practices for arc flash and shock protection.
Worked example
A mechanic must adjust a roller guide from the car top. The car is stopped at a landing, the top-of-car stop switch is opened, and the inspection station is selected. The mechanic verifies the switch by attempting to run; the car must not move. Only then does the mechanic proceed. If the car moves with the stop switch open, the switch or circuit is defective, and work stops until it is repaired.
Traps that cost marks
Do not rely on the controller alone to hold a car; use the stop switch and lockout. Do not enter a pit without pit stop and lighting. Do not use a car top as a work platform without the inspection station and fall protection. Do not treat a warning sign as a substitute for a physical barricade.