The U.S. codes and standards that apply to backup power systems for elevators and escalators are primarily governed by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and the International Building Code (IBC). Below is a list of the key codes and standards relevant to backup power systems for elevators and escalators, based on the provided references and general knowledge of the subject:
- ASME A17.1/CSA B44 – Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators
- Relevance: This is the primary safety code in the U.S. and Canada for the design, construction, installation, operation, inspection, testing, maintenance, alteration, and repair of elevators and escalators. It includes requirements for backup power systems to ensure safe operation during power outages, particularly for emergency operations and passenger safety.
- Key Provisions:
- Section 2.27 addresses emergency operation and signaling devices, including requirements for standby power to support Phase I Emergency Recall Operation and occupant evacuation elevators.
- For residential elevators, Section 5.3.1 specifies that elevators must have a backup power source to prevent passengers from being trapped during a power outage, along with emergency lighting in the cab.
- The code ensures that elevators can operate or safely return to a designated level during power disruptions.
- Versions: The most recent editions referenced include ASME A17.1-2016, 2019, and 2022, with local jurisdictions adopting specific versions (e.g., Connecticut adopted ASME A17.1-2013). Always check the adopted version in the relevant jurisdiction
- NFPA 70 – National Electrical Code (NEC)
- Relevance: The NEC provides electrical installation standards, including those for backup power systems for elevators and escalators.
- Key Provisions:
- Article 620 (Elevators, Dumbwaiters, Escalators, Moving Walks, Platform Lifts, and Stairway Chairlifts) specifies requirements for wiring, overcurrent protection, grounding, and disconnecting means for elevator and escalator systems. It includes provisions for connecting backup power sources, such as generators or battery systems, to ensure safe operation.
- Article 620.91 addresses emergency and standby power systems, noting that elevators are typically connected to legally required standby systems rather than emergency systems, depending on building codes.
- Ensures proper integration of backup power to prevent electrical hazards and maintain operational safety.
- NFPA 72 – National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code
- Relevance: This code governs fire alarm systems, including those integrated with elevator backup power systems for emergency operations.
- Key Provisions:
- Requires monitoring of fire service access elevators and occupant evacuation elevators at the fire command center, with backup power supplied by both normal and Type 60/Class 2/Level 1 standby power.
- Ensures that fire alarm-initiated elevator recall operations (Phase I Emergency Recall) are supported by reliable backup power to facilitate safe evacuation or firefighter access.
- International Building Code (IBC)
- Relevance: The IBC, adopted by most U.S. jurisdictions with local amendments, sets requirements for building systems, including elevators and their backup power systems.
- Key Provisions:
- Section 1009.4 (Accessible Means of Egress) mandates that elevators serving as an accessible means of egress in buildings with four or more stories above or below the level of exit discharge must have standby power, typically via an emergency generator rather than battery backup. This applies to buildings in jurisdictions like Massachusetts under the 780 CMR (Massachusetts State Building Code).
- Section 3003.1.4 (California Building Code, based on IBC) requires smoke detectors in elevator hoistways to activate Phase I emergency recall, supported by standby power systems.
- For high-rise buildings, Section 403.4.8.3 mandates standby power for elevators to ensure functionality during emergencies.
- ASME A17.3 – Safety Code for Existing Elevators and Escalators
- Relevance: This code applies to existing installations and includes retroactive requirements for backup power systems to maintain safety in older elevators and escalators.
- Key Provisions:
- Specifies modifications to ensure existing elevators comply with modern safety standards, including provisions for emergency power to support safe operation or evacuation.
- Jurisdictions like New York City (NYC Building Code 2022, Appendix K) modify ASME A17.3-2015 to include retroactive requirements for standby power in existing systems.
- Local and State Amendments
- Many states and municipalities adopt ASME A17.1, NFPA 70, NFPA 72, and IBC with amendments tailored to local needs. Examples include:
- California Building Code (CBC): Based on the IBC, it includes specific requirements for standby power for fire service access elevators and hoistway ventilation systems.
- Massachusetts 780 CMR: Requires standby power for elevators serving as accessible means of egress in buildings with four or more stories.
- Minnesota Elevator Code: Adopts ASME A17.1-2016 with amendments in Chapter 1307, including maintenance and testing of backup power systems.
- Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 754: References ASME A17.1 and requires compliance with backup power provisions for elevators and escalators.
- Connecticut: Adopted ASME A17.1-2013 with specific requirements for maintenance control programs that include backup power systems.
- Always consult the local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for specific amendments and adopted code versions.
- Many states and municipalities adopt ASME A17.1, NFPA 70, NFPA 72, and IBC with amendments tailored to local needs. Examples include:
Notes:
- Backup Power Requirements: Backup power systems (e.g., generators, uninterruptible power supplies, or battery backups) must ensure elevators can complete emergency recall operations, support occupant evacuation, or allow safe access for firefighters. Generators are often required over battery backups for accessible means of egress in taller buildings.
- Residential Elevators: ASME A17.1 Section 5.3 emphasizes backup power for private residence elevators to prevent entrapment, with emergency lighting requirements to enhance safety during outages.
- Cybersecurity: Recent updates to ASME A17.1-2022 include cybersecurity requirements for elevator control systems, which may impact backup power system integration to ensure secure operation.
- Harmonization: ASME A17.1 is harmonized with CSA B44 in Canada, ensuring consistent standards across North America.
