How much does it cost to adapt an elevator to the new ITC regulations?

adaptar el ascensor a la nueva normativa ITC

Have you ever wondered how much it costs to adapt your elevator to the ITC? On July 1, 2024, the new Complementary Technical Instruction (ITC) came into force—an updated regulation that directly impacts thousands of elevators in operation throughout Spain.

This update introduced a set of provisions that modify and expand the technical requirements for existing elevators, aiming to enhance their safety, accessibility, and efficiency. As a result, both individual property owners and homeowners’ associations are now required to assess the current condition of their vertical mobility systems and implement the necessary upgrades to comply with the new legal framework.

Is it essential to adapt elevators to the new ITC regulations?

The answer is yes. The new elevator regulation stipulates that elevators must meet certain safety standards to ensure they do not pose a risk to users. Therefore, compliance has become a critical priority for those responsible for managing and maintaining elevator systems.

One of the most frequently asked questions during this process is the cost involved. So, how much does it cost to adapt an elevator to the ITC? To answer that, one must consider all the factors that may influence pricing—ranging from the type of elevator and building age to the required enhancements and safety features.

In general, the cost of adaptation depends on various elements, such as installing new safety systems, modernizing control units, or updating the cabin and door mechanisms, among others.

What factors influence the cost of adapting an elevator to the ITC?

  • Age and current condition of the elevator: Older elevators typically require more extensive structural and technological updates, which are often more expensive than for newer models. This is largely due to wear and tear over time and the degradation of mechanical and electronic components.
  • Type of building: Adapting an elevator in an older building is not the same as in a modern one. To calculate the cost, it’s crucial to consider the building’s characteristics—whether it’s residential, commercial, or industrial, how many floors it has, and whether there are structural limitations that might complicate the installation of new systems. Other influencing factors include the need to enlarge the shaft, modify entryways, or perform supplementary construction work.
  • Number of stops and travel range of the elevator: The number of stops the elevator makes and the total length of its travel path directly affect the adaptation cost. The greater the number of levels the elevator connects, the more complex the required work becomes. Additionally, a longer travel path implies the need to inspect and possibly replace more system components, such as cables, motors, and control systems.
  • Brand and model of the installed equipment: To calculate how much it costs to adapt an elevator to the ITC, the brand and model of the installed equipment must be considered. Some brands offer more modular systems or spare parts that are readily available on the market. In contrast, if the elevator is an old model or from a brand no longer operating in the country, it may be harder to find compatible parts or specialized technicians, which increases both the cost and duration of the project.
  • Level of accessibility and available space in the machine room: The addition of accessibility elements, such as two-way communication systems, may require modifications to the existing space. These adaptations must fit the current configuration of the elevator and the building, which in some cases could involve additional work to accommodate new safety or remote management devices.
  • Structural conditions of the building: This is another important factor when determining how much it costs to adapt an elevator to the ITC, mainly because buildings with old, deteriorated structures, or those not originally designed to house a modern lifting system, may require extra interventions that significantly increase the project’s budget.
  • Elements to replace or add based on the prior inspection: The Mandatory Periodic Inspection (IPO) may identify specific components that must be updated, which affects the total cost. These replacements may include door-closing systems, safety mechanisms, electronic controls, or lighting, and must be detailed in the technical report prior to any work being carried out.

Components to update in elevators according to the new ITC

The main changes introduced in Annex VII of the new regulation impact various key safety aspects in existing elevators. Below are the most relevant measures to consider:

adaptar el ascensor a la nueva normativa ITC
  • Poor leveling (±10 mm at stops): To ensure proper alignment between the cabin and landing at each stop, a maximum leveling margin of ±10 mm is established. To achieve this accuracy and prevent tripping or falling risks, the installation of a frequency inverter is recommended to optimize control of the cabin’s movement.

  • Protection against automatic door closure: To prevent accidents caused by door closure while users are entering or exiting the cabin, the installation of a photoelectric curtain will be mandatory. This detection system prevents the doors from closing when presence is detected in the threshold.

  • Prevention of uncontrolled cabin movement while stationary with doors open: A safety device must be incorporated to prevent unexpected movement of the cabin when it is stationary with the doors open. This measure will be mandatory in all elevators undergoing simultaneous replacement of both the traction unit (electric or hydraulic) and the control panel.

  • Two-way communication system in the cabin: All elevators must have a two-way communication system accessible from inside the cabin. This system will allow users to contact an assistance service in case of emergency, significantly enhancing safety in the event of incidents.

  • Replacement of non-compliant guide rails: The use of cylindrical, rail-type, or wooden guide rails for the cabin and/or counterweight will not be permitted. As a result, these guide rails and their corresponding frames must be replaced to ensure the stability and durability of the components.

  • Adaptation of the counterweight for inspection along the full travel path: In existing elevators, it will be necessary to modify the counterweight design so it can be inspected safely and thoroughly throughout its entire travel path. This action is in accordance with sections 5.4.11 and 5.7.1 of the UNE EN 81-20:2020 standard, as well as section 5.4 of the UNE EN 81-21 standard.

Adapt your elevator to the ITC regulation with Aszende

Now that you know the key elements to consider in determining how much it costs to adapt an elevator to the ITC, it’s time to choose a technical provider that ensures full compliance with the requirements of the new Complementary Technical Instruction.

At Aszende, we offer comprehensive solutions for adapting elevators to the ITC regulation. Our expert team thoroughly evaluates each installation and proposes the necessary improvements to guarantee the safety, legality, and efficiency of your system.

From the installation of two-way communication systems to the modernization of the control panel, we provide a complete, regulation-compliant solution.

Leave the adaptation process in our hands and stop worrying about how much it costs to adapt your elevator to the ITC. Do it with a reliable, professional team with proven experience in the Spanish market. Contact us!

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