Florida Building Code Update

Whether you are building for an elevator or managing several, knowing the local code requirements is essential. Unless the building code is met, construction permits will not be granted. This is not just applicable to those who are freshly laying out plans for construction but also to those upgrading existing elevators.

Once ASME A17 safety code is updated, it is crucial that all elevators in your building are modernized to meet new requirements.

For the State of Florida Elevator Code, it was recently determined that all elevators must now comply with part 3.10.12 of ASME A17.3-2015, Safety Code for Existing Elevators and Escalators by December 31st, 2023.

What Does This Mean for My Elevators?

This Florida code update takes full effect on the first day of 2024 and will ensure that all elevators are equipped with a DLM, or hoistway door-lock monitoring system. This system guarantees that your elevator will remain locked until the cab doors have securely shut. This will diminish any risk that your elevator could move with its cab doors still fully or partially open.

Updating this code will establish further regulations for the safety of all passengers riding in the cab. The door-lock monitoring system was made a code requirement for any elevator built after the year 2000. For elevators built prior to the update, the elevator control system must be modernized as soon as possible.

Even for elevators built after the start of the new millennium, there is still a possible need for modernization in order to be completely compliant. If your elevator was built or modernized shortly after 2000, you may need to have its software or hardware updated to follow the DLM system.

There is also a strong probability that your elevator meets this code compliance if it was built within the last 10 years, but all elevators in Florida should be inspected to validate this. There have been many cases of new elevators having the system installed but not enabled. The update to this code should be prioritized for all property owners and managers as the State of Florida Elevator Code requires it.

The top priority in the elevator industry is safety and this shows as we’ve seen that elevators continue to be the safest form of transportation to date. Code updates like the door lock-monitoring system are key to keeping vertical transportation as secure as possible for passengers.

For more information on how to bring your elevator up to code before the effective date of January 1st, 2024, please find your local TK Elevator branch here.