8 things you need to know if you get stuck in a lift

1. Why does a lift stop during operation?

Although it may seem counterintuitive, normally the lift remains stopped to guarantee the safety of the users. If the control panel detects that a safety feature has failed, the lift is blocked so that it can’t be used. For example, if the lift detects a door failure, the lift will not start.

2. What are the chances of getting stuck in a lift?

The probability of being trapped in a lift is minimal.  The lift control panel does a preliminary check before starting. So if it detects a problem, the lift doesn’t start. The few cases where users get trapped are caused by power cuts and, to a lesser extent, component failures when the lift is in motion.

3. What should you do if this happens?

The first thing to do if you find yourself trapped in a lift is to stay calm and press the alarm button.

· If the lift has two-way communication, the lift will call the emergency telephone number.
· If the lift does not have two-way communication, the user can call the emergency phone number. If there is no coverage inside the cabin, the best idea is to press the alarm button several times to warn your neighbours that you are locked in, so they can call the emergency telephone number.

Normally, there are stickers indicating the emergency telephone number inside the cabin, on the upper frame of the exterior door on the ground floor and on the access door of the machine room. When calling the emergency telephone number, the following information must be provided: Town, address, name and contact telephone number. You should also indicate how we can access the property.

Next, the technician will call the user and give them instructions. This is why the telephone line that has been provided must be left free.

While waiting for the technician, you must remain calm. You have to remember that the lift has stopped for safety reasons, so there is no danger. You won’t run out of oxygen either, all lifts have air vents.

4. What is the procedure followed from the office?

The notification is recorded in the system and sent to the technician. The technician receives an e-mail automatically. The technician is then always called to make sure they have received the notification. The technician calls the telephone number provided and gives instructions.

5. What is the average waiting time inside a stopped lift?

The average waiting time for a user trapped in a lift ranges from 20 to 30 minutes. The technician will always give maximum priority to this type of notification.

6. Is an old lift more likely to stop unexpectedly?

If your lift has been modernised, it’s no more likely to stop than a newer model would be.
But if it’s an old lift that hasn’t been modernised, there is more risk, since it may have worn and old components that could fail while the lift is in operation.

7. Can it be avoided?

In preventive maintenance, all components are checked to avoid this type of failure wherever possible.
But if we came across an old lift that hadn’t been modernised, we’d have to assess which elements could cause this type of failure and replace them.

 8. Can a stopped lift fall? Should you be afraid of this happening?

It is almost impossible for a lift to fall. All lifts have several safety systems to prevent falls.
There is no need to be afraid of this happening.