thyssenkrupp Elevator Offers 7 Steps to Protect Elevators During a Flood
FRISCO, Texas (Oct 6, 2016) – Hurricane. Typhoon. Cyclone. Whatever the name, the effects of a storm can last long after it has passed. According to The Weather Channel, the 2016 Atlantic Hurricane season is expected to be the most active since 2012. Even a weak tropical storm can cause major impacts, particularly if it moves slowly and results in flooding rainfall.
As the largest producer of elevators in the Americas, thyssenkrupp reminds building engineers to keep elevators and escalators on their emergency preparedness lists. “Elevator pits are one of the lowest points in a building so a hurricane’s storm surge, excessive rain and even broken water pipes can flood the elevator pit,” said Gary Losey, vice president, U.S. service operations. “A host of equipment susceptible to water damage is fixed within the pit. Flood water also can contaminate the fluid needed to operate hydraulic elevators. We highly recommend installing a sump pump.”
Remember these 7 steps to protect elevators during a flood:
- Never ride elevators during any kind of storm
- Evacuate occupants who rely on elevators
- Shut down all elevators except one. Keep one elevator, serving all floors operational for emergency personal and disabled persons
- Run the remaining elevators to the uppermost landings and cycle the doors shut
- Turn off the main disconnects of the remaining elevators in the machine room
- Place sandbags 4 feet high around the machine-room door
- Shut or cover any vents or openings at the top of the shaft
“Most importantly, remember Safety First,” said Losey. “Safety is everyone’s responsibility at thyssenkrupp and we encourage our customers and the people who depend on our products every day to have the same focus.”
For more safety tips, including a check list of things to do before and after a storm, visit thyssenkruppelevator.com.
Kellie Harris
Director, Media and Communications
thyssenkrupp North America, Inc.
Phone: 1 (312) 525-2790
E-mail: kellie.harris@thyssenkrupp.com
About thyssenkrupp Elevator Technology
With global sales of approximately $8.3 billion in fiscal 2014/2015 and customers in 150 countries, thyssenkrupp elevator offers smart and innovative products and services designed to meet customers’ individual requirements. The portfolio includes passenger and freight elevators, escalators and moving walks, passenger boarding bridges, stair and platform lifts as well as tailored service solutions for all products. In North America, thyssenkrupp Elevator Americas employs more than 15,000 employees in over 230 branches.
Tags:
