Maintaining lifts is crucial for their safe and efficient operation. Following a structured lift maintenance checklist not only ensures compliance with safety regulations but also offers numerous benefits, including increased reliability, extended lifespan, and reduced downtime. Gett to know the key maintenance tasks to include in your checklist, organised by frequency, to help you establish a comprehensive maintenance routine for your lift system.

Daily lift maintenance tasks

  1. Checking lift operation and responsiveness — Verify that the lift is responding promptly to calls, doors are opening and closing smoothly, and there are no abnormal sounds or vibrations during operation.
  2. Inspecting and cleaning the interior of the lift — Regularly clean the elevator cabin, including the walls, flooring, handrails, and mirrors, to maintain cleanliness and presentable appearance.
  3. Verifying proper functioning of buttons and indicators — Test all buttons, floor indicators, and emergency buttons to ensure they are functioning correctly.

Weekly lift maintenance tasks

  1. Lubricating moving parts and hinges — Apply appropriate lubrication to moving parts such as pulleys, bearings, and hinges to reduce friction and maintain smooth operation.
  2. Inspecting and cleaning door mechanisms — Check the door opening and closing mechanisms, including rollers, tracks, and sensors, for any obstructions, damage, or misalignment. Clean them to remove dust or debris that may affect proper functioning.
  3. Testing emergency communication systems — Test the intercom or emergency communication system to ensure clear communication between passengers and the monitoring station in case of an emergency.

Please note 📝 In the UK, lifts are required to be fitted with emergency communication devices. EN81-1 and EN81-2 offer assistance on installing a communication line to allow a trapped passenger to call for help in the event of a power cut.

Monthly lift maintenance tasks

  1. Inspecting and cleaning the hoistway and pit area — Thoroughly inspect the hoistway and pit area for debris, oil leaks, or any signs of damage. Clean the area to maintain a safe and clean environment.
  2. Testing and adjusting door closing and leveling — Check the door closing speed and leveling accuracy to ensure they are functioning properly. Make necessary adjustments to maintain proper door operation and alignment.
  3. Checking and cleaning elevator shaft lighting — Inspect and clean the lighting fixtures in the lift shaft to ensure adequate illumination for maintenance and emergency situations.

Quarterly lift maintenance tasks

  1. Inspecting and testing safety features — Check the emergency brakes, overspeed governors, and other safety devices to ensure they are functioning correctly. Test their operation as per the manufacturer’s guidelines.
  2. Testing and recalibrating elevator sensors and switches — Test the door sensors, limit switches, and other sensors to ensure accurate detection and smooth operation. Recalibrate if necessary.
  3. Inspecting and adjusting door locks and latches — Check the door locks and latches for proper engagement and alignment. Adjust or replace any faulty components as needed.

Annual lift maintenance tasks

  1. Comprehensive inspection of all mechanical and electrical components — Conduct a thorough inspection of the lift’s mechanical and electrical systems, including motor, cables, brakes, control panels, and wiring. Identify any signs of wear, damage, or potential issues that require attention.
  2. Testing and certification of safety systems — Perform a comprehensive safety inspection, including load testing, emergency stop functionality, and other critical safety checks. Obtain the necessary certifications and documentation.
  3. Verifying compliance with relevant regulations and standards — Ensure that the lift system complies with all applicable codes, regulations, and industry standards. Make any necessary upgrades or modifications to meet the requirements.

Additional tips for a top notch maintenance routine

Tracking maintenance tasks and creating a maintenance log

Keep a detailed record of all maintenance tasks performed, including dates, tasks completed, and any observations or repairs made. This log serves as a valuable reference and helps track the maintenance history of the lift system. A facilities management platform can help you do this (and more!).

Conducting specialised maintenance based on lift type

Different types of elevators, such as hydraulic or traction, may have specific maintenance requirements. Consult the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Considering environmental factors and their impact on maintenance needs

Environmental factors like temperature, humidity, and dust levels can affect lift performance and maintenance needs. Adjust your maintenance routine accordingly.

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