I-D-04 Elevator Rescue 01/05/2021

Questions and Answers

What is the primary function of the traction principle in traction elevators?

To create a downward pull that provides traction with the hoisting ropes (correct)

To accelerate the elevator car using hydraulic fluid

To utilize a vacuum system for efficient movement

To rely on gravitational force solely for movement

Where is the machine room for a traction elevator typically located?

On the ground floor adjacent to the lobby

On the roof of the building

In the basement under the elevator shaft

Directly above the hoistway (correct)

Which voltage level controls the lights and fans within a traction elevator car?

600 volts

480 volts

220 volts

110 volts (correct)

What must be checked prior to ascending to the roof for traction elevator operations?

The lockbox for a roof access key Signup and view all the answers

In which situations can Unit Officers-in-Charge (OICs) modify procedures for elevator rescues?

To meet special or unusual circumstances Signup and view all the answers

Which type of elevator is defined as utilizing steel belted straps or wire hoisting ropes?

Traction elevator Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a designated landing floor?

The floor to which an elevator is recalled in Phase One Signup and view all the answers

What is the potential hazard related to the electrical circuits in the machine room of a traction elevator?

They could be energized to 600 volts Signup and view all the answers

What power source do hydraulic elevators primarily use to operate?

Hydraulic power with oil pressure Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the hydraulic power unit in a hydraulic elevator's machine room?

To pump and regulate hydraulic fluid Signup and view all the answers

Where are the machine rooms for hydraulic elevators typically located?

At the lower level or any floor level Signup and view all the answers

What type of elevator door consists of two panels that part simultaneously when operated?

Center opening doors Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary safety function of elevator interlocks?

To prevent door operation if the elevator is not present Signup and view all the answers

What are GIB blocks primarily used for in elevator systems?

To stabilize the hoistway door during operation Signup and view all the answers

What happens to brakes on an elevator if electrical power is lost?

They are engaged automatically by springs Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of Machine Room-Less (MRL) elevators?

Most components are located within the hoistway Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important for the elevator brakes to be engaged and functioning properly before shutdown?

To prevent unintentional movement when power is lost Signup and view all the answers

What type of elevators may use cables and counterweights despite primarily being hydraulic?

Roped Hydraulic elevators Signup and view all the answers

What prevents elevators from moving when the hoistway doors are not properly closed?

Interlock system Signup and view all the answers

Which type of brake system is not typically found in hydraulic elevators?

Disc brake systems Signup and view all the answers

How do traction elevators differ from hydraulic elevators in terms of braking during free fall?

They are equipped with brakes meant for normal operation only Signup and view all the answers

How often are GIB blocks expected to be utilized on normal hoistway doors?

Every 18 inches across the door panel Signup and view all the answers

What equipment is essential for MDFR personnel during elevator rescue incidents?

Hoistway door drop keys Signup and view all the answers

In the event of an inoperative elevator, which of the following factors should be considered before attempting a rescue?

Lighting and ventilation within the elevator Signup and view all the answers

How should fire personnel establish communication with trapped elevator passengers?

Utilize the building's internal intercom system Signup and view all the answers

What should firefighters check regarding the electrical circuits when evaluating an elevator's status?

Verify if the main power is engaged Signup and view all the answers

If an elevator car is near the landing floor and power is off, what should be instructed to passengers?

Attempt to manually open the car door Signup and view all the answers

Which item is NOT considered necessary equipment for MDFR personnel during elevator rescues?

Firefighter uniforms Signup and view all the answers

What action should be taken if there is power to the elevator during a rescue attempt?

Turn the power off for at least 30 seconds Signup and view all the answers

When might a firefighter need to request elevator technicians?

When attempting to recall the elevator to ground level fails Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical safety step before opening hoistway/elevator doors?

Deactivate the main elevator breaker Signup and view all the answers

Which method helps to confirm if the elevator's brake system is engaged?

Sliding a sheet of paper between the brake pads Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the 'escutcheon plate' in elevator door operations?

Prevents unauthorized access to the keyhole Signup and view all the answers

What does the acronym SOP stand for in the context of elevator operations?

Standard Operating Protocol Signup and view all the answers

In which scenario should firefighters consider removing occupants from an elevator?

If an emergency is deemed to exist Signup and view all the answers

During an elevator rescue, how should personnel manage multiple trapped occupants?

Assess the number of occupants present Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of chocking the hoistway doors?

To maintain them in an open position. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about escutcheon tubes is correct?

They are typically located at every landing in multi-car hoistways. Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if the escutcheon tube is missing?

Check the resource document or adjacent elevator for the correct key. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common error when applying force to open the hoistway doors?

Using excessive force is incorrect. Signup and view all the answers

In what situation might you need a double-knuckle drop key?

When the car is at the landing with limited clearance. Signup and view all the answers

What is the best practice when using a single drop key?

Apply gentle force to the key once inserted. Signup and view all the answers

When encountering a mechanical restrictor device on an elevator, what should personnel do?

Attempt to disengage any secure bars or latches. Signup and view all the answers

Which key type requires alignment of the 'tee' end with the keyhole?

Tee key. Signup and view all the answers

What is a recommended procedure when the elevator car is stalled at a landing?

Use a single drop key to unlock the hoistway door. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of the key procedures outlined for elevator access?

To ensure safety while handling elevator emergencies. Signup and view all the answers

Which option describes a situation that may require the use of a pike pole?

When the car is slightly above the hoistway opening. Signup and view all the answers

What will happen if the elevator car is outside the landing zone relative to a restrictor device?

The restrictor will engage and cannot be overcome. Signup and view all the answers

Which key method requires that the pin of the key be aligned with the slot of the keyhole?

Cylinder key method. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of a shunt trip in an elevator system?

To de-energize the elevator's mainline power upon receiving a signal Signup and view all the answers

What indicates that smoke or fire is near the elevator system?

Flashing of the red firefighter helmet indicator light Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step personnel must take to reset an elevator after a shunt trip activation?

Attempt to reset the alarm Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a potential risk when firefighters attempt to return the elevator car to the primary recall floor during a fire?

Firefighters might become trapped in between floors Signup and view all the answers

After occupants are removed from the elevator during rescue, what is crucial for personnel to ensure concerning the elevator power?

Confirm that power is 'locked out' and not to be restored Signup and view all the answers

What occurs if the smoke or fire detector is activated in the elevator machine room?

A circuit is activated in the elevator controller to signal an alert Signup and view all the answers

Where is the shunt trip breaker typically located for resetting an elevator?

Near the main shutoff or in the machine room Signup and view all the answers

What action should NOT be taken immediately after occupants are rescued from the elevator?

Leave the elevator doors open for ventilation Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step to take if trying to disengage the piston in an elevator control box?

Depress the 'RESET' button on the Computer Signaling Box. Signup and view all the answers

In which situation should personnel consider using the top emergency exit of a stalled elevator car?

Only when the elevator is three feet or higher above the landing. Signup and view all the answers

Which tool is recommended as the first option for forcibly opening hoistway doors if all alternatives have been exhausted?

Ratcheting forcible entry tool (Door Storm) Signup and view all the answers

What must be done before any forcible entry is attempted on an elevator door?

Ensure all passengers are standing away from the door. Signup and view all the answers

How should force be applied when attempting to open elevator doors close to the top?

Force should be applied at the door jamb or as close to the top as possible. Signup and view all the answers

What precaution should be taken before using a ladder to enter the top emergency exit of an elevator?

Only one person should use the ladder at a time. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of inserting a pin between the actuating pin and the car rail?

To prevent the pin from re-engaging after disengagement. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key difference between traction and hydraulic elevators in terms of manual intervention?

Only traction elevators require a certified technician for movement. Signup and view all the answers

When using a bleeder valve in a hydraulic elevator, how should it be operated?

Open slowly to monitor fluid flow and control descent. Signup and view all the answers

What should be verified before attempting to restore electrical power to an elevator?

The brakes are operational and engaged. Signup and view all the answers

What type of fall-arrest system should be used when personnel enter the hoistway?

Tag-line with hasty harness. Signup and view all the answers

If an elevator car is malfunctioning, what should be the last resort for gaining access to occupants?

Forcing open the car doors. Signup and view all the answers

What happens when the hoistway door interlocks are broken while the car door remains open?

The car door remains open while the hoistway door stays closed. Signup and view all the answers

Which step is crucial when utilizing an attic ladder to enter the car?

Ensure that the ladder is securely positioned and stable. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Elevator Rescue Procedures

Follow designated procedures for safe and orderly removal of trapped elevator occupants.
Miami-Dade Fire Rescue (MDFR) must know SOP IB-4 (High-Rise Fires) and SOP I-D-10 (Emergency Elevator Use).
Some situations may require modification of procedures by Unit Officers-in-Charge (OICs).

Types of Elevators

Traction Elevators
- Used in buildings with two or more stories; operate via an electric motor and hoisting ropes.
- Speed depends on building height and weight capacity; machine room is typically above the hoistway.
- Main power shutoff can reach 600 volts; lights and fans operate on a separate 110-volt circuit.
Hydraulic Elevators
- Limited to six stories; powered by hydraulic fluid, either water or oil.
- Machine rooms may be at varying floor levels, containing the hydraulic power unit and controller.
Machine Room-Less (MRL) Elevators
- Components fit within the hoistway, eliminating the need for a traditional machine room.
- Can be traction or holeless hydraulic systems.

Elevator Construction

Hoistway
- Shaft allowing elevators to move between building floors efficiently; accommodates opening/closing mechanisms.
Elevator Doors
- Comprise inner (car) and outer (hoistway) doors; car doors initiate operation while hoistway doors are reliant on them.
- Types of doors include swing hall doors, single slide doors, center opening doors, and two-speed doors.
Elevator Interlocks
- Prevent elevator movement unless hoistway doors are closed and secured.
Safety Features (GIB Blocks & Brakes)
- GIB blocks stabilize hoistway doors; normal elevators utilize two blocks.
- Traction elevators use brakes similar to automotive brakes; hydraulic elevators possess built-in safety features that control descent.

Rescue Procedures

General Guidelines
- Essential equipment for personnel includes lockbox keys, hoistway door drop keys, handlights, and protective gear.
- Assess presence of emergencies (fire, injury, illness, panic) before attempting removal of occupants.
- Establish voice communication with trapped passengers to assess conditions and direct actions.
Electrical Circuit Check
- Ensure main power to elevator is off before rescue; check circuits for functionality.
- If necessary, attempt to reset power after 30 seconds.
Recalling the Elevator
- Try to recall the elevator to the ground floor and open its doors; if unsuccessful, request additional resources.

Opening Doors and Key Procedures

Hoistway/Elevator Car Door Access
- Main power must be shut off before opening doors; appoint a firefighter to ensure power remains off.
- Identify keyhole using the escutcheon plate; use appropriate key type (single/double-drop, lunar, cylinder, tee keys).
Escutcheon Tube Locations
- Found at every landing for single and multi-car hoistways; contain crucial access points for emergency procedures.
Special Considerations
- Use of improvised tools (screwdrivers) may assist in key operations if necessary; spare keys might be available in machine rooms.

Important Warnings

Ensure elevator car is within three feet of landing to attempt rescue.
Verify brakes are engaged before disconnecting power to prevent elevator movement.
Avoid direct access on top of the elevator car when conducting rescues involving flywheel mechanisms.

Additional Notes

Modern elevators often have “restrictor” devices that prevent door opening outside the landing zone; power must be disconnected to manipulate these mechanisms.
Safety measures are critical to prevent uncontrolled movement during emergencies.### Disengaging the Elevator Piston
To disengage the piston, press the “RESET” button on the Computer Signaling Box.
If unsuccessful, insert a gloved hand between the actuating pin and the car rail.
Lift the actuating pin out of the rail and place a finger between the pin and the rail to keep it disengaged.
Rotate the car's flywheel to open the elevator door(s).
In traction-type elevators, ensure brakes are operational before shutting down power at the main disconnect.

Using the Top Emergency Exit

The top emergency exit should only be used in true emergencies when the elevator is over three feet above the floor.
De-energize all power to elevator motors and ensure it cannot be restored.
Position personnel at the landing above the elevator.
Use fall-arrest systems when entering the hoistway; do not overcrowd the area.
Climb down to the roof of the elevator using a ladder and locate shutoff switches.
Emergency exit panels may require tools to remove; panels open outward.
Access is limited to single-car hoistways; multi-car hoistways require advanced fall-arrest techniques and Technical Rescue response.

Forcing Hoistway Doors

Forcing hoistway doors should be a last resort due to risk of door misalignment and property damage.
Alternative methods should be exhausted before considering forcible entry.
Recommended tools include: Ratcheting forcible entry tool, Halligan bar with flathead axe/sledge hammer, and Hydraulic Spreaders (Jaws).
Before applying force, de-energize power, and instruct occupants to step back and face the rear of the elevator.
Force should be applied near the top of the door to minimize damage and avoid knocking doors off rollers.

Moving Elevators

Personnel should not manually move traction elevator cars; certified technicians must handle them.
Moving a hydraulic elevator requires careful consideration and should only happen if immediate action is needed.
De-energize electrical power before attempting to move the hydraulic elevator.
Locate and operate the hydraulic bleeder valve to lower the car slowly; do not fully open the valve.
Passengers should manually open the car door once it is level with the landing for safe exit.

Shunt Trip Activation

A shunt trip is an electronic circuit breaker that cuts power to an elevator when activated, typically by heat or smoke detection.
The shunt trip halts elevator movement, even during emergency operations, to prevent entrapment.
Activation is indicated by a flashing red firefighter helmet light on the control panel.
Firefighters can manually open doors at the nearest landing or attempt to return to the recall floor before activation.
To reset an elevator after a shunt trip, reset the alarm, locate the shunt trip breaker, and place it in the “ON” position.

Demobilization Post-Rescue

After all occupants are safely removed, secure the elevator car and hoistway doors.
Do not restore power; confirm that power is locked out.
Notify management that technicians are needed to restore service.
The Unit Officer in Charge (OIC) must complete a basic report, noting any life safety issues identified, such as missing fire service keys.

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