Every year, thousands of people are injured in elevator accidents. In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that there are about 26 elevator-related accidents per 100,000 full-time workers each year. While some of these accidents are due to faulty equipment, many of them are caused by human error. We asked an elevator accident lawyer to tell us about some ways to prevent elevator accidents in your workplace.
1. Know the weight limit for the elevator and don’t exceed it.
An elevator can only hold so much weight, and if you exceed that limit, the elevator could malfunction or even collapse. That’s why it’s important to know the weight limit for the elevator and not exceed it. Additionally, exceeding the weight limit can cause damage to the elevator and shorten its lifespan. So be sure to know the weight limit and stick to it!
2. Don’t try to stop the elevator between floors.
When an elevator is between floors, the cable that helps it move up and down can become slack. If someone were to try to stop the elevator between floors, they could cause the cable to snap, which could lead to an accident. Additionally, if the elevator is stopped between floors for too long, it could cause the brakes to overheat. So it’s best not to try to stop the elevator between floors – it’s just not worth the risk.
3. Use the emergency stop button only in an emergency.
The emergency stop button should only be used in an emergency because if it’s used for any other reason, it could cause the elevator to stop working properly. For example, if someone presses the emergency stop button when the elevator is already stopped between floors, it could cause the brakes to overheat. Additionally, if the emergency stop button is pressed when there’s someone in the elevator, it could cause the elevator to drop abruptly, which could injure or even kill the person inside. So it’s best to use the emergency stop button only in an emergency – and only if you really need it.
4. Don’t prop open the doors.
Propping open elevator doors can be dangerous for a few reasons. First of all, if the elevator is in use when the doors are propped open, it can cause the elevator to stop working properly. Additionally, propping open the doors can let in cold air or rain, which can damage the elevator or even cause an accident. So it’s best to keep the doors closed and not prop them open.
5. Keep your hands and feet inside the elevator at all times.
When you’re in an elevator, it’s important to keep your hands and feet inside the car at all times. This is because if you stick your hands or feet out of the elevator, they could get stuck in the doors. And if the doors close while your hands or feet are sticking out, you could get seriously injured. So it’s important to always keep your hands and feet inside the elevator.
6. Don’t lean against the walls or stand on one leg while in the elevator.
Leaning against the walls or standing on one leg while in the elevator can be dangerous for a few reasons. First of all, if you lean against the walls, you could fall over and get injured. Additionally, if you stand on one leg, you could lose your balance and fall down. And if you fall down while in the elevator, you could get seriously injured. So it’s best to avoid leaning against the walls or standing on one leg while in the elevator.
7. Don’t use your cell phone while in the elevator.
Using your cell phone while in the elevator can be dangerous for a few reasons. First of all, if you’re distracted by your phone, you could lose focus and not see the obstacles in your way. This could lead to an accident. Additionally, if you’re on the phone, you could miss your stop or even get lost in the building. And if you’re on the phone when there’s an emergency, you might not be able to respond quickly enough. So it’s best to put away your phone and focus on where you are and what you’re doing.
8. Be aware of your surroundings and who else is in the elevator with you.
When you’re in an elevator, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and the people around you. This is because if you aren’t paying attention, you could bump into or trip over someone. Additionally, if there’s a stranger in the elevator with you and you aren’t paying attention, they could take advantage of your distraction and harm you. So it’s best to always be aware of your surroundings and who else is in the elevator with you
9. If you see something suspicious, say something to a supervisor or security guard immediately.
If you see something suspicious in the elevator, such as someone acting strangely or a package that looks out of place, it’s important to say something to a supervisor or security guard immediately. This is because if you don’t speak up and there’s an emergency situation later on, you could be held responsible for not doing anything. And by reporting the suspicious behavior right away, you can help ensure the safety of yourself and others in the building. So if you see something suspicious in the elevator, speak up right away.
Conclusion
By following these 9 simple tips, you can help prevent elevator accidents in your workplace. Remember, safety should always be a top priority when using elevators. If you have any concerns about the safety of an elevator, be sure to report them to a supervisor or security guard immediately.
