It is back to work and back to school here in Ottawa. Did you know there are over 19,000 elevators in Ontario? Here are the top 5.5 ways to ensure your safety, and that of your children, clients and tenants when using one of the many elevators in Ottawa:
- Upon arrival into the building, the person closest to the hall station calls the elevator. Do not run to the elevator Once the button is lit up, the call is placed. Pushing the button repeatedly does not make the elevator arrive faster. Stand at least 5 feet away from the door, as there are likely people inside the elevator looking to exit when the door opens.
- Wait for the door to open fully before entering the car and look down at the floor level to ensure the car is level at the floor and avoid tripping hazards.
- Do not stand in the doorway or close to the door when inside the elevator. Move to the back if you are the first passenger to enter the car. Do not hold the door once it begins to close. Instead, press the door open button for oncoming passengers and the door will re-open electrically. Remember to keep small children (and their fingers) away from door gaps and edges as doors open and close.
- If the doors do not open when you arrive at your floor, remain calm. Use the phone button clearly indicated on the operating panel, and/or use the alarm button to alert passers by that you are inside the car. All elevators are equipped with telephones, which must be monitored 24/7 by staff trained in emergency services. These devices will keep you in contact with help, until the service company arrives.
- When exiting the elevator, the person closest to the door leaves first and remember to look down at the floor level and confirm the elevator is level at the floor to avoid tripping hazards. Do not be in a rush when entering or exiting an elevator.
- When transporting school desks, fridges, or chairs, make sure you put the elevator on “independent service”. This is done by inserting the X4001 key into the service key switch inside the car. Putting the car on service allows you to control the elevator from inside the car, and the door will stay open until materials are unloaded and another car call is placed. Remember to return the elevator to automatic service when the job is done!
There you have it, 5.5 ways to ensure you are riding one of our thousands of elevators safely. As traffic in buildings, schools and highways increases this fall remember to be observant, take your time, and be courteous in your commute from place to place and floor to floor.
Thanks for reading and keep an eye out for the next issue of “Elevate Your Knowledge” from The Team at Rideau Elevator Services.
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