How to Handle the Most Common Elevator Emergencies Passengers Encounter

What are the most common elevator problems?
With about 30 different devices responsible for various mechanisms in each elevator, even one weak link can cause trouble - and often does. To get an idea on what may be going on behind the scenes during an elevator crisis, here are some of the most common elevator emergencies passengers may be calling emergency services about.
 

• Leveling
  When an elevator stops at a position unlevel to the current stop’s floor. Can cause passengers to be stuck between floors or even injure themselves if they are unaware of the issue and try to enter or exit the car as normal.
  • ​Passengers may describe this by saying, “the elevator door opens, but we’re stuck between floors.”

 

• Overcapacity
  When an elevator car is carrying too many passengers - more weight than it can handle - a weight sensor automatically stops the car in place to prevent additional problems that may occur when in motion.
  • ​Passengers may describe this by saying, "a lot of us are trapped in an elevator."

 

• Disconnect
  When one of the many fail-safes powering the elevator loses its connection to the elevator, the car will automatically stop to keep passengers safe.
  • ​Passengers may describe this by saying, “the elevator stopped by the doors won’t open.”

 

• Power Outage
  When the power goes out, whether building-wide or on a larger scale, an elevator will stop functioning altogether - keeping the car stuck in place and shutting down interior lighting and ventilation.
  • Passengers may also describe this by saying, “the elevator stopped and lights went out!”

 
How do you deal with these calls?
Getting stuck in an elevator is never calming. Chances are, once you’re stuck, you panic, whether you’re claustrophobic or not. Situations like this are called entrapments, and emergency responders knowing the proper procedure when assisting passengers that call for help can make all the difference. Having dedicated, compassionate, and well-informed representatives on the line to walk passengers through how to handle crises like these and reassure them that everything is going to be okay.
 
That’s where Insta Answer comes into play. With over 50 years in dealing with elevator entrapments, our customer service representatives know exactly how to handle these calls and treat all callers like family. Make sure your elevator company’s reputation is boosted by great customer service, not worsened just because of a malfunction. Call 877-631-9711 now to see how we treat our customers!

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