Every Californian who considers a home elevator eventually asks the same thing: what about earthquakes? It is a fair question with reassuring answers, provided you ask the right things before you buy.
Elevators are designed with earthquakes in mind
Elevator safety codes include provisions for seismic regions, and California applies its own requirements. The details depend on the type of elevator and where it is installed. Your installer should be able to explain how the model you are considering addresses them.
Questions to ask your installer
- How is this elevator designed for use in a seismic area?
- What holds the rails, the cab and any counterweight in place during shaking?
- Does the elevator have a seismic sensor, and what does it do when triggered?
- What structural support does the house need to provide?
- What inspection is recommended after an earthquake?
The structure matters too
An elevator is attached to the building. On a remodel or new build, your structural engineer will account for it in the design. In an older home, ask whether any strengthening is advisable.
During an earthquake
- Do not get into an elevator while the ground is shaking
- If you are riding when a quake begins, hold the handrail and get out at the first landing where the doors open
After an earthquake
- Do not use the elevator until you are satisfied it is safe
- Look for visible damage around the doors and the shaft
- After significant shaking, have a technician inspect it before returning it to service
- Remember that the power may be out, and that aftershocks are likely
Have a plan that does not depend on the elevator
Anyone who cannot manage stairs should think through how they would leave an upper floor in an emergency, and discuss it with family or the local fire department.
Stair lifts and platform lifts
These are simpler machines fixed to stairs or a slab. After a strong quake, check the fixings and have the lift looked at if anything seems out of line.
Talk to a local installer
Nationwide Lifts of Northern California installs elevators across the region and can answer these questions for each model. Call 888-323-8755 for a free consultation.