Pit

The elevator pit is the space at the very bottom of the hoistway that extends beyond the lowest destination floor. Requirements for the dimensions of a pit vary based on location, so be sure to review the local code requirements for your elevator.

Pit depth is also a factor that all building owners must consider before constructing their elevator because there always needs to be enough room to dig further down. At the bottom of the pit, a refuge spot is crucial to have for elevator technicians and mechanics to safely get in and out of the hoistway.

Because the pit is necessary for cab support and overall function, the space must be illuminated. Based on code locality, each pit must have adequate lighting with a light switch adjacent to the pit ladder along with a GFCI-protected electrical outlet. The emergency power circuit must also be protected, if one is available.

Sprinkler heads, a sump pump and grating are also required in some cases. If sprinkler heads are not required, the pit will have shunt trip sensors that can detect certain elements which can hinder elevator operation such as water. These sensors will go off and can alert nearby technicians to rectify this issue before the system resumes operation.