In emergencies, elevators usually stop working, but fire service elevators are different. These elevators are designed to help firefighters and emergency teams during a disaster. They allow fast access to high floors in tall buildings, making rescue and firefighting easier.
In this article, we will explain when fire service elevators are needed, what the installation rules are, and when exceptions can be made.
What Is a Fire Service Elevator?
A fire service elevator is built to be used during a fire or other disaster. These elevators allow emergency teams to reach high floors quickly, carry equipment, and help people escape. Unlike regular elevators, fire service elevators are made to work during an emergency.
Difference Between Fire and Regular Elevators
| Elevator Type | Use | Safety Features |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Elevator | Used for daily transport of people | Stops working during a fire |
| Fire Service Elevator | Used by firefighters during emergencies | Has fire-proof walls, runs on backup power, and can be controlled manually |
Purpose of Installation
A fire service elevator is a special elevator designed to help firefighters and rescue teams during fires or earthquakes.
Even if there is a fire or power outage, it can still be controlled using a special panel. It has a backup power supply, so it can keep working when other elevators stop.
Buildings That Need Fire Service Elevators
Fire service elevators are required in certain buildings, especially taller ones. According to the International Building Code (IBC):
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Buildings with occupied floors more than 120 feet (about 36.6 meters) above the level of fire department vehicle access must have a fire service elevator.
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This includes residential buildings, such as apartments and hotels.
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Hospitals and care homes must also have fire service elevators.
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Any building where firefighters need quick access to upper floors during an emergency.
These requirements are outlined in Section 403.6.1 of the International Building Code. More details about installation standards are found in Section 3007 of the same code.
Buildings That Don’t Need Fire Service Elevators
Not all buildings need fire service elevators. The following buildings are exempt from this need:
- Low-rise buildings with occupied floors less than 120 feet (36.6 meters) above the level of fire department vehicle access.
- Buildings with upper floors that are not used for occupancy, such as mechanical rooms, storage areas, or rooftop equipment.
- Buildings where the upper floors above 120 feet are small (less than 500 square meters) or not used for people.
- Buildings equipped with other fire safety systems that provide adequate protection.
These exemptions are also outlined in the International Building Code (IBC), where buildings with specific uses or lower heights may not need a fire service elevator.
Fire Service Elevator Installation Standards
When fire service elevators are required, they must meet certain installation standards to ensure they can be used in emergencies.
Number of Elevators
The number of elevators needed depends on the size of the building:
| Floor Area Above 120 ft | Required Elevators |
|---|---|
| Up to 1,500 m² | 1 |
| 1,500 m² to 4,500 m² | 2 |
| 4,500 m² to 7,500 m² | 3 |
| Add 1 for every 3,000 m² more | +1 |
Location
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The fire service elevator must be within 100 feet (30 meters) of the main entrance used by firefighters.
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If there are more than one elevator, they should be spaced apart to allow for better access during an emergency.
Elevator Lobby Requirements
Each fire service elevator must have a protected lobby on every floor. The lobby must follow these rules:
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Size: The lobby should be at least 150 square feet (14 square meters), and the smallest side should be 8 feet (2.4 meters) long.
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Fire-resistant Materials: The lobby should be made of materials that can resist fire for 1 hour.
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Emergency Lighting: The lobby needs emergency lighting to work if the power goes out.
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Signage: The lobby should have signs that show:
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The weight limit of the elevator.
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Instructions on how to use the elevator in an emergency.
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These rules make sure the fire service elevator is safe and easy for firefighters to use during an emergency.
Elevator Structure
- Fire-resistance: The elevator shaft and lobby must have a 2-hour fire-resistance rating. This means the materials should be able to resist fire for at least 2 hours.
- Strength: The elevator must be strong enough to carry heavy equipment, like hoses and rescue tools.
- Emergency Communication: The elevator must have a way for firefighters to talk to each other, even during an emergency.
- Backup Power: The elevator must have a backup power so it can still work if the main power goes out.
Extra Fire Service Elevator Requirements
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Elevator Speed: The elevator must move at at least 60 meters per minute (200 feet per minute) to allow fast access during an emergency.
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Manual Control: Firefighters should be able to control the elevator manually, even if the doors are not fully closed. This helps firefighters use the elevator in a fire or emergency.
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Firefighter’s Emergency Key: The elevator should have a special key that lets firefighters control the elevator from the fire command center.
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No Water Systems: The elevator’s machine room and shaft should not have water-based systems like sprinklers, so they don’t interfere with the elevator’s use during a fire.
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High Capacity: The elevator should be strong enough to carry heavy loads, like rescue tools, water hoses, and even injured people.
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Smoke Control: The elevator should have smoke control to stop smoke from getting into the elevator shaft or car during a fire. This ensures the elevator is safe for firefighters to use.
The rules mentioned above come from the International Building Code (IBC). Different countries have different rules for fire service elevators. For specific requirements, please check the local building codes. Here are some of the rules from different countries and regions:
| Country/Region | Relevant Standards |
|---|---|
| Europe | EN 81-72:2015, Eurocodes |
| United Kingdom | BS 9999:2017 |
| China | GB 50016-2014 (Building Fire Safety Code), GB/T 7588-2003 (Elevator Safety Code) |
| Japan | Building Standard Law, Fire Service Act |
| United States | NFPA 101: Life Safety Code, ASME A17.1 (Elevator Safety Standard) |
| Canada | National Building Code of Canada (NBC), CAN/CSA B44 |
| Australia | Building Code of Australia (BCA) |
Summary
Fire service elevators are essential for buildings with tall floors, as they help firefighters quickly and safely access upper levels during emergencies. But, they are not required in every building.
Key points:
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Buildings taller than 120 feet typically need fire service elevators.
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Larger buildings may need more than one elevator.
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The elevators must be easily accessible, strong enough to carry heavy equipment, and have backup power.
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Some buildings may be exempt from this need if they meet certain conditions (e.g., low fire risk, small upper floors, or non-occupied spaces).
While installing a fire service elevator can be costly and take up space, it is critical for the safety of occupants and emergency responders. Always refer to local regulations before beginning installation.
