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CHAPTER 7. ELEVATORS, LIFTS, ESCALATORS,
DUMBWAITERS, HOISTS AND TRAMWAYS
Subchap. Sec.
A. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS 7.1
B. PASSENGER ELEVATORS 7.51
C. SIDEWALK ELEVATORS 7.91
D. STAGE, ORCHESTRA, ORGAN CONSOLE AND LUMBER ELEVATORS 7.111
E. PERSONAL SERVICE ELEVATORS 7.131
F. POWER-OPERATED SPECIAL INDUSTRIAL SERVICE ELEVATORS 7.171
G. MANLIFTS 7.211
H. STAIRWAY INCLINED LIFTS IN BUILDINGS OTHER THAN PRIVATE RESIDENCES 7.251
I. FREIGHT ELEVATORS 7.271
J. ESCALATORS 7.321
K. DUMBWAITERS 7.341
L. HOISTS 7.361
M. AERIAL PASSENGER TRAMWAYS 7.411Authority The provisions of this Chapter 7 issued under act of June 2, 1913, P. L. 396 (71 P. S. § 1442), unless otherwise noted.
Source The provisions of this Chapter 7 adopted December 15, 1924, unless otherwise noted.
Cross References This chapter cited in 34 Pa. Code § 6.31 (relating to cables, ropes, block and tackle); 34 Pa. Code § 39.31 (relating to elevators); and 34 Pa. Code § 60.33 (relating to buildings).
Subchapter A. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS
GENERALLY Sec.
7.1. Definitions.
7.2. Scope.
7.3. Penalty.
ADMINISTRATION
7.11. Equipment of special design.
7.12. Rules of operation.
7.13. Repairs.
7.14. Tests.
7.15. Inspection.
7.16. Inspectors.
7.17. Prohibited installations.
SPECIFICATIONSALL HOISTING AND LOWERING EQUIPMENT
7.31. Submission and approval of plans.
7.32. Fire prevention.
7.33. Operation of elevators under fire or other emergency conditions.
7.34. Lighting and electric wiring.
7.35. Electrical insulating floor mats.
7.36. Data plates and numbering.
7.37. Combination elevators.
GENERALLY
§ 7.1. Definitions.
The following words and terms, when used in this chapter, have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:
Aerial passenger tramwayA general usage which denotes a device used to transport passengers by single and double reversible tramway; chair lifts, gondola lifts and skimobiles; T-bar lifts, J-bar lifts, platter lifts and similar devices; or a fiber rope tow.
Automatic control elevatorAn elevator, the operation of which is controlled by electric buttons or switches in such a manner that all stops at landings are made automatically and which may be started by switches or buttons at the landing.
BasementA floor level partly or completely below grade as measured from the floor level immediately above; it shall be considered a story if more than 33-1/3% of the exterior wall perimeter is five feet or more above grade.
Basement liftA sidewalk elevator.
BucketA metal bucket or tank operating in guides raised and lowered by steel cables and used for the purpose of distributing concrete or other building material to various floor levels.
Builders hoistAn elevator erected for temporary use, built in or adjoining a building under construction or alterations.
Car door or gateThe door or gate in an elevator car.
Chair lifts, gondola lifts, and skimobilesA type of transportation in which passengers are carried on chairs or cars, or in gondola cabs attached to and suspended from a moving wire rope or attached to a moving wire rope or chain and supported on a standing wire rope or other structure.
DiameterTread diameter when it refers to sheaves, wheels, or pulleys.
Double-button control elevatorAn elevator, the operation of which is controlled by self-centering buttons or switches located in the car and at the landings in such a manner that the elevator operates only when the button or switch is held closed manually and stops when the button or switch is released.
Double-deckAn elevator consisting of a car structure containing two elevator cabs or compartments.
Drive sheave, or bull wheelThe tread diameter which ranges from three to 14 feet, depending upon the type of installation. Either designation refers to the main drive sheave.
Dual control elevatorAn elevator capable of operation either by an authorized operator in the car or automatically by electric buttons or switches.
DumbwaiterA miniature freight elevator.
ElevatorA car, cage, or platform raised or lowered vertically in permanent guides or rails, including the necessary operating mechanism, used to transport persons or materials.
Elevator carThe load carrying unit, including the platform supporting and guiding frame, and enclosure.
EscalatorA moving continuous inclined stairway or runway used for raising or lowering persons. Wheeled vehicles of any type are not permitted on escalators.
Fiber rope towA type of transportation which pulls skiers riding on skis by a traveling fiber rope which the skier grasps by hand.
Fire-resistive materialsApproved materials having fire-resistive qualities, such as brick, concrete, hollow tile, terra-cotta blocks, or concrete plaster on expanded metal lath supported by metal studs of an approximate total thickness of not less than 2 1/2 inches.
Freight elevatorAn elevator constructed and used for carrying materials.
Full automatic door or gateA door or gate which is opened and closed automatically by the motion of the elevator car.
GradeThe level or the surface of the ground established by law, or on record where not established by law. This term includes the average level of the surface of the ground.
Gravity elevatorA freight elevator used for lowering materials in a car, cage, or platform through a shaftway, the operation of which is accomplished by the excess weight of the car, cage or platform and the load over the car counterweights.
Hand elevatorA freight elevator, the machinery of which is actuated by a rope or cable operated exclusively by hand.
Independently-operated door or gateA door or gate operated by power from an auxiliary source in no way derived from the motion of the car.
LandingThe floor, balcony, or platform used to receive or discharge passengers or freight from an elevator car.
Landing door or gateThe door or gate at the shaftway entrance of any landing.
Locking deviceA device which prevents the operation of an elevator away from the landing while any gate or door at that landing is open and unsecured and also prevents the opening of the door unless the car is at the landing; this term is also referred to as interlock.
Lumber elevatorA platform equipped with screws to raise or lower stacked lumber in a vertical direction at a speed not exceeding 15 feet per minute, with a travel not exceeding 20 feet.
MachineryThe hoisting mechanism and equipment used in the operation of an elevator.
ManliftThe type of elevator which operates by an endless vertical belt which revolves over fixed pulleys at the top and bottom limits of travel and to which steps and hand holds are attached so that persons may ride on it.
Manually-operated door or gateA door or gate which is opened and closed by hand.
Orchestra elevatorA platform for raising and lowering musicians in an orchestra in a vertical direction at a speed not exceeding 15 feet per minute.
Organ console elevatorA platform for raising and lowering an organ console, including the organist, in a vertical direction at a speed not exceeding 15 feet per minute.
Passenger elevatorAn elevator constructed and operated to transport persons.
Private dwellingsConvents, rectories, and parsonages, which are ex- empt from this chapter, unless portions thereof are used for the housing or assembling of persons other than members of the religious order, if the occupancy is not in excess of 25 persons.
Rated capacityThe capacity established by the designer of equipment.
RopeWire rope, and cable are interchangeable, except for rope tows if rope means a fiber rope.
Safety gate stopsA device which automatically stops a tramway when in contact with a passenger or the weight of a passenger.
Semiautomatic door or gateA door or gate which is manually opened but automatically closed when the elevator car leaves the landing.
ShaftwayA shaft, well-hole, hatchway or other vertical opening or space, partly or wholly enclosed within which an elevator is raised or lowered in a vertical direction.
SheavesPulleys or wheels grooved for rope.
Sidewalk elevatorAn elevator which travels from a point below the sidewalk level to the sidewalk, or to an elevation not to exceed wagon or freight car loading level.
Single or double reversible tramwayA type of transportation in which passengers are carried in one or more enclosed cars that reciprocate between terminals.
Stage elevatorA platform consisting of a section of the stage arranged to be raised and lowered above and below the stage level in a vertical direction at a speed not exceeding 15 feet per minute.
Stairway inclined liftA power passenger inclined lift installed on a stairway for raising or lowering persons from one floor to another.
Standard railingA railing not less than 42 inches in height with an additional rail midway between the top rail and the floor.
T-bar, J-bar and platter lifts and similar devicesTypes of transportation which pull skiers riding on skis by devices propelled by a main overhead traveling wire rope.
ToeboardA board at least 6 inches in height, placed at right angles with floor or platform to prevent objects from falling from the floor or platform to the spaces below.
WinchA hand or power-operated machine having a rope coiled on one or more drums for the purpose of hauling, hoisting or lowering a load.
Workmens hoistA hoist installed in or outside of buildings during construction, alteration or demolition, and used primarily to raise or lower workmen and other persons connected with or related to the building project.
Authority The provisions of this § 7.1 issued under act of May 2, 1929 (P. L. 1518, No. 452) (35 P. S. § § 13411356).
Source The provisions of this § 7.1 amended through December 19, 1980, effective December 20, 1980, 10 Pa.B. 4723. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (17285) and (36688).
§ 7.2. Scope.
This chapter sets forth rules to safeguard the lives, limbs, maintenance and health of workers involved in the installation, operation and maintenance of elevators, lifts, escalators, dumbwaiters, hoists and tramways in this Commonwealth, and places the responsibility of compliance with the rules upon both employer and employe.
§ 7.3. Penalty.
Any person who violates any of the provisions of this chapter is subject to summary proceedings before an alderman, magistrate or district justice and upon conviction, shall be penalized as provided in section 16 of the act of May 2, 1929 (P. L. 1513, No. 451) (35 P. S. § 1356).
ADMINISTRATION
§ 7.11. Equipment of special design.
The operation, erection and installation of types of hoisting and lowering equipment other than those covered in this chapter is subject to approval by the Department. When installing elevators with specially designed apparatus or equipment not provided for by this chapter, the elevators may not be operated until the design in question has been approved by the Department.
Cross References The provisions of this § 7.13 issued under act of May 2, 1929 (P. L. 1518, No. 452) (35 P. S. § § 13411356).
Source The provisions of this § 7.13 amended December 19, 1980, effective December 20, 1980, 10 Pa.B. 4723. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (8045) and (8046).
Cross References The provisions of this § 7.14 amended through June 21, 1974, 4 Pa.B. 1282. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (8047) and (8048).
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.134 (relating to approval and operation); 34 Pa. Code § 7.174 (relating to approval and operation); 34 Pa. Code § 7.213 (relating to approval and operation); and 34 Pa. Code § 7.251 (relating to general).
§ 7.16. Inspectors.
(a) The Department will hold examinations for applicants as approved elevator inspectors, four times a year, on the first Thursday after the first Wednesday in March, June, September and December, or at such other times as the Board may direct. Special examinations may be held when necessary. Persons desiring to take the examination shall forward their applications to the Department not less than ten days prior to the date of examination, accompanied by a fee of $40.
(b) All applicants found competent through examinations will be awarded, upon the payment of a fee of $20, a commission and a credential card, authorizing them to inspect elevators, escalators, dumbwaiters, gravity elevators and hoists in the names of the agencies they represent. Credential cards will be renewed annually upon the payment of a fee of $10.
(c) No elevator inspector will be approved who is an employe of the owner or user of the elevators to be inspected, nor will elevator inspectors be approved to inspect elevators under the jurisdiction of the Department if they are not employes of the Department or of casualty and insurance companies authorized to do business in this Commonwealth or of a firm engaged in the making of inspections on a fee or contract basis when performing inspections on such basis for an insurance carrier.
(d) No person shall inspect elevators who is not a bona fide employe of the Commonwealth or of an insurance carrier authorized to do business in this Commonwealth or of a firm engaged in the making of inspections on a fee or contract basis when performing inspections on such basis for an insurance carrier. For the purposes of this rule, the term employe means any person who is directly responsible to the employer for all work performed, and who receives as compensation a regular salary based on full or part-time employment and for whom compensation insurance is carried by the employer. It does not include the relationship of agent on a commission basis.
Source The provisions of this § 7.16 amended through June 12, 1975, 5 Pa.B. 1558. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (8050).
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.134 (relating to approval and operation); 34 Pa. Code § 7.174 (relating to approval and operation); 34 Pa. Code § 7.213 (relating to approval and operation); and 34 Pa. Code § 7.251 (relating to general).
§ 7.17. Prohibited installations.
(a) No hand elevator shall be equipped with any attachments or equipment for applying power, unless the hoisting machinery is permanently and completely converted into power-driven machinery. In such cases, all requirements for power-driven freight elevators shall be complied with.
(b) No back guide elevator car, except a hydraulic plunger type, shall be constructed and installed unless the plunger is located under the center of the elevator car platform.
(c) The operation of elevators by friction gearing or clutch mechanism is prohibited when such friction gearing and clutch mechanism form the primary means for the transmission of the power required to operate the elevator at normal speed.
(d) The installation or operation of elevators of the multiple or four-point suspension type is prohibited. Existing four-point suspension type sidewalk elevators are not precluded.
(e) The operation of passenger elevators raised and lowered by single hoisting cables is prohibited, except when the mechanism of such elevators is in a reasonably safe condition and may be made to conform to the requirements applicable to existing installations, if the present drums are properly scored to accommodate an additional cable and the additional cable is installed, and new drums are provided with the proper scoring for two or more cables and the additional cable is installed. This requirement also applies to new hand and gravity types of freight elevators but not to existing hand and gravity elevators.
(f) The installation of passenger elevators in blind shaftways is prohibited unless a side emergency exit is provided to a contiguous elevator, or emergency entrances are provided in the blind portion of the shaftway, as required by § 7.54(e) (relating to landing doors and locking devices).
(g) New installations of hand rope control elevators are prohibited.
(h) A platform shall not be located on the car top of any elevator for the purpose of hauling passengers or materials. This does not apply to a working platform while the elevator is under construction or alterations are being made to the hoistway.
Source The provisions of this § 7.17 amended July 22, 1971, 1 Pa.B. 1652.
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.251 (relating to general).
SPECIFICATIONS
ALL HOISTING AND LOWERING EQUIPMENT
§ 7.31. Submission and approval of plans.
(a) No elevator, dumbwaiter, escalator, gravity elevator, hoist or manlift shall be constructed and installed without a permit from the Department. The architect, contractor, owner or manufacturer responsible for such installations shall file with the Department plans in triplicate, each showing the location of the machinery and equipment together with an application for a permit in duplicate, on forms provided by the Department. Such plans shall specify the capacity and the car speed of the installation, the weight of the car complete, car controlling mechanism, type of limit stops and switches, diameter of sheaves, size, number and material of hoisting and counterweight cables, type of speed governor and safeties, overhead and pit clearance, type of buffers, machine and overhead grating, the weight of the machine if overmounted, the material, quality and spans of overhead supporting members, and the construction of shaftway gates or doors, and car gates or doors, where required.
(b) Each set of plans submitted to the Department for an elevator permit for work to be accomplished in a new or existing hoistway in an existing structure shall bear the seal and signature of an architect or engineer licensed in this Commonwealth, together with his certification on the drawing to the following statement:
I have examined and checked the building structure or building plans surrounding this elevator hoistway, pit and machine room and hereby certify it is adequate for the loads to be imposed on it and is in accord with applicable laws and regulations of this Commonwealth.
(c) An exception exists as regards oil-electric or hydraulic elevators designed for class A freight loading or passenger loading. In lieu of the above certification on the elevator plans, a letter which shall accompany the request for elevator permit from the architect or engineer on his letterhead and bearing his seal and signature together with the above certification will be acceptable. Such letter shall identify in detail the elevator drawing in question including final revisions.
(d) Before work is commenced on the removal, or repair of existing installations, duplicate applications for the work shall be filed with the Department for approval, and a permit for the work obtained.
Source The provisions of this § 7.31 amended through September 23, 1977, 7 Pa.B. 2696. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (13389).
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.71 (relating to conflicts); 34 Pa. Code § 7.134 (relating to approval and operation); 34 Pa. Code § 7.174 (relating to approval and operation); 34 Pa. Code § 7.213 (relating to approval and operation); 34 Pa. Code § 7.251 (relating to general); and 34 Pa. Code § 7.291 (relating to general).
§ 7.32. Fire prevention.
(a) Skylights and windows. Skylights and windows in the enclosing walls of elevators shaftways shall be constructed of fixed metal sash and frame with wire glass. Existing skylights and windows shall be reconstructed of fire-resistive materials when, in the judgment of the Department, it is deemed necessary.
(b) Inflammable materials. Materials, explosives or other highly inflammable substances may not be placed or stored in or near a shaftway.
(c) Pipes, wires and conduits. No pipes, wires or conduits, other than those necessary for the operation, lighting and fire protection, or heating of the elevator may be located in an elevator shaftway. When no hazard is involved, the Department may, with the approval of the Board, accept existing installations. However, this subsection does not apply to the machine room space located in general mechanical areas if the power unit and controls are properly secured against entry.
(d) Fire emergency sign. A sign shall be posted in a conspicuous place at new and existing elevator landings and in new and existing elevator cars reading: In case of fire do not use elevator, or the equivalent.
Authority The provisions of this § 7.32 issued under act of May 2, 1929 (P. L. 1518, No. 452) (35 P. S. § § 13411356).
Source The provisions of this § 7.32 amended through December 19, 1980, effective December 20, 1980, 10 Pa.B. 4723. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (36694).
Cross References The provisions of this § 7.33 issued under act of May 2, 1929 (P. L. 1518, No. 452) (35 P. S. § § 13411356).
Source The provisions of this § 7.33 amended through December 19, 1980, effective December 20, 1980, 10 Pa.B. 4723. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (40538).
Cross References The provisions of this § 7.34 amended April 28, 1971, 1 Pa.B. 1272.
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.71 (relating to conflicts); and 34 Pa. Code § 7.291 (relating to general).
§ 7.35. Electrical insulating floor mats.
Floor matting of proper dielectric properties shall be provided extending the full length of all control and relay panels located at both the front and rear with a minimum width of 24 inches.
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.71 (relating to conflicts); and 34 Pa. Code § 7.291 (relating to general).
§ 7.36. Data plates and numbering.
(a) Metal plates with the permissible load in pounds marked on such plates shall be posted in a conspicuous place in the cars of all elevators.
(b) Metal tags on which are stamped the diameter, stranding, date of installation or renewal, and material of cables, shall be attached to all hoisting and counterweight cables, as required by § § 7.56(i) and 7.280(j) (relating to cables).
(c) When more than one elevator is located in a building, numbers shall be placed upon each for permanent identification.
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.54 (relating to landing doors and locking devices); 34 Pa. Code § 7.71 (relating to conflicts); and 34 Pa. Code § 7.291 (relating to general).
Subchapter B. PASSENGER ELEVATORS
GENERAL PROVISIONS Sec.
7.51. Shaftway construction.
7.52. Shaftway equipment.
7.53. Shaftway clearances.
7.54. Landing doors and locking devices.
7.55. Machinery.
7.56. Cables.
7.57. Elevator cars.
7.58. Capacity.
7.59. Safety equipment.
7.60. Motive power.
7.61. Control apparatus.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
7.71. Conflicts.
7.72. Electric passenger elevators.
7.73. Automatic control passenger elevators.
7.74. Dual control passenger elevators.
7.75. Double-button control passenger elevators.
7.76. Hydraulic passenger elevators.
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
§ 7.51. Shaftway construction.
(a) General. New and existing shaftways of passenger elevators shall conform to the following:
(1) New shaftways. The shaftways of new passenger elevators in buildings over two stories in height shall be enclosed by continuous walls of fire-resistive construction, except when overhead loads are carried on a steel or angle iron tower or by the structural parts of the building, in which case fire-resistive curtain walls may be provided in lieu thereof. There shall be no openings other than those for fire-resistive doors, windows, or skylights. When basement machines are installed, and when the openings in the shaftway walls for cables or sheaves exceed ten square feet, the machine rooms shall be constructed of fire-resistive materials. When fire-resistive construction is not required, the shaftways of passenger elevators shall be enclosed with a solid or substantial grille or latticework on all sides to ceiling height, except space required for landing doors. The open spaces in such grille or latticework shall be such that a ball two inches in diameter will not pass, and the wire or material used shall not be less than No. 10 standard steel wire gauge (.135 inch). When bordering on counterweight runways, or when moving parts are within four inches of such enclosures, the open spaces shall be such that a ball 3/8 inch in diameter will not pass. Machine room doors shall be locked at all times, except when repairs are being made or when the machinery is being inspected or serviced. Oil-electric pump units installed in basement areas do not require a machine room if the controller is enclosed in a fire-resistive cabinet equipped with a lock and the pumping unit is properly guarded.
(2) Existing shaftways. The shaftways of existing passenger elevators are not required to be of fire-resistive construction unless, in the judgment of the Department, such construction is essential for the protection of the occupants of the buildings in which such elevators are located. When such existing enclosures are composed of grille or metalwork of open construction which does not extend to full height from floor to ceiling, the owner may be required to continue such enclosures to the full height on the open side or sides of the car and on such other sides where hazards exist, such as stairways and similar conditions. All portions of enclosures within four inches of moving parts shall be further protected by wire screen of not more than 3/8 inch mesh to a height of not less than six feet from the floor and to a distance of at least six inches to the right and left of such moving parts.
(b) Overhead loads. Overhead loads shall conform to section 105 of the ANSI A17.1-1971 Code, Rules 105.1 through 105.5 inclusive and all subsequent amendments thereto. Overhead loads supported by bearing walls shall conform to the following:
Material Ultimate Tensile Strength
(in pounds per square inch)Medium steel 60,000 Cast iron 16,000 Ash 9,000 Yellow pine 9,000
(1) When overhead loads are carried by bearing walls of brick, concrete, or other approved materials and are erected independently of walls carrying building loads or resisting stresses or when independent shaftway and building walls jointly carry loads, they shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the values governing safe bearing loads as follows:
Safe Bearing Loads
Brick Work
Type of
MotorPounds per Square Inch Lime 100 Portland cement 200 Rosendale cement 150 Masonry Material Pounds per Square Inch Granite, capstone 700 Stonework, squared 350 Sandstone, capstone 350 Stonework, squared 175 Rubble stonework in lime mortar 80 Rubble stonework in cement mortar 150 Limestone, capstone 500 Squared stonework 250 Rubble, in lime mortar 80 Rubble, in cement mortar 150 Concrete (one Portland, two sand, five broken stone) 150 Foundation Soils Material Tons per Square Foot Hard rock in native bed 100 Rock equal to ashlar masonry 2540 Rock equal to best brick 15120 Clay beds, dry and thick 46 Clay beds, moderately dry and thick 24 Clay beds, soft 12 Gravel and coarse sand, well cemented 810 Sand, well cemented and compact 46 Sand, clean and dry 24 Quicksand, alluvial soils, etc. 0.51 (2) Existing shaftway construction is acceptable if, in the judgment of the Department, such shaftways properly protect the occupants of buildings in which they are located and conform in other respects to safe practices.
(c) Contiguous shaftways. If passenger elevator shaftways are contiguous and are required to be of fire-resistive construction, it is not necessary to erect walls between such shaftways.
(d) Windows. As regards new installations, windows in the outside walls of buildings opening into passenger elevator shaftways shall be constructed of fire-resistive materials. In all cases, windows shall be set in fixed sash. Elevator shaftway windows located within the first seven stories above a street or within four stories of the roof of an adjacent building shall be fitted with approved metal bars or rods at least 5/8 inch in diameter not more than 10 inches apart except when inside window protection is provided in accordance with subsection (e). When, in the judgment of the Department, outside window guards are necessary on existing installations, they shall be provided.
(e) Other recesses. Recesses other than for windows or recesses other than necessary for installation of elevator equipment shall not be permitted. Beams, floor slabs or other building construction shall not project more than 4 inches inside the general line of the hoistway unless the top surface of the projection is beveled at an angle of not less than 75° with the horizontal. When setbacks occur in the enclosure wall, the top of the setback shall be beveled at an angle of not less than 75° with the horizontal. Separator beams between adjacent elevators are not required to have bevels. The following shall also apply:
(1) New installations. All recesses or offsets in shaftways of fireproof construction, except door lintels in the enclosing walls on the open sides of the car, shall be protected by substantial curtain walls, grating or vertical bars set on a flush line with the interior walls of the shaftway, the distance between the vertical members not to exceed two inches. Such grating or bars shall be of metal. No part of the curtain walls, grating or bars shall be more than 3 inches from the car platform on any open side of the car. When the distance between the edge of the car top and rear shaftway wall exceeds 18 inches, a protective railing shall be installed the width of the car.
(2) Existing installations. When the distance from car sill to shaftway wall on any open side of a car exceeds 7 inches, curtain walls, fascia plates, vertical metal bars spaced not more than 2 inches, or a substantial metal grill of not more than 2 inch mesh shall be provided, unless the car gate on that side is equipped with an approved interlock. When the clearance exceeds 15 inches, the car door shall be solid and equipped with an approved interlock or the shaftway constructed as specified.
(f) Shaftways shorter than buildings. Passenger elevator shaftways which are required to be of fire-resistive construction and which do not extend to the entire height of the building shall be protected with a fire-resistive, unpierced covering.
(g) Skylights and ventilators. Skylights and ventilators are permitted in passenger elevator shaftways if the walls of the shaftway are continued to a point not less than 3 feet above the level of the roof. Skylights and glass ventilators shall be of wire glass not less than 1/4 inch in thickness.
(h) Penthouses. In new installations, where penthouses are provided over fire-resistive passenger elevator shaftways, such penthouses shall be constructed of approved fire-resistive materials with a permanent means of entrance provided from the roof level. Penthouse doors shall be locked at all times, except when repairs are being made or when the machinery is being inspected or serviced. Penthouses shall not have less than a clear inside height of 6 feet and shall permit free access to all parts of machinery and apparatus therein. In existing structures, fire-resistive penthouses are not required unless conditions necessitate such construction. Access to all penthouses, overhead machinery and machine rooms shall be provided by means other than through the shaftway.
(i) Depth of shaftways. Shaftways and counterweight runways of elevators serving the street levels shall extend to the pit floor of the lowest cellar or basement, and the bottom of the shaftway shall be covered with concrete or other approved fire-resistive material to a thickness of at least 4 inches. When the space below the shaftway is used for a passageway, is occupied by persons, or, if unoccupied, is not secured against unauthorized access, the cars and counterweights shall be provided with governor-operated safeties, except that safeties operated as a result of the breaking of the suspension means may be used for dumbwaiters. Also, car and counterweight-buffer supports shall be of sufficient strength to withstand without failure the impact resulting from buffer engagement at governor-tripping speed or at 125% of rated speed when no governor is provided.
(j) Shaftways used as thoroughfares. No elevator shaftway shall be used as a thoroughfare when the elevator is above or below the landing or when the elevator is at the landing, except upon special permission of the Department. Existing shaftways used as thoroughfares may be required to be removed or reerected in new locations or their use as thoroughfares abandoned.
Source The provisions of this § 7.51 amended June 11, 1976, 6 Pa.B. 2278. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (8057).
Cross References The provisions of this § 7.273 amended through September 23, 1977, 7 Pa.B. 2696. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (31539) through (31541).
Cross References The provisions of this § 7.53 amended September 23, 1977, 7 Pa.B. 2696. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (31542).
Cross References The provisions of this § 7.54 amended through September 23, 1977, 7 Pa.B. 2696. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (31543) through (31545), (8067), and (17297).
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.17 (relating to prohibited installations); 34 Pa. Code § 7.37 (relating to combination elevators); 34 Pa. Code § 7.71 (relating to conflicts); 34 Pa. Code § 7.149 (relating to hoistway doors); and 34 Pa. Code § 7.189 (relating to hoistway doors).
§ 7.55. Machinery.
(a) In new installations, overhead machinery for passenger elevators shall be securely fastened or cleated to its supports to prevent movement. Overhead bearings shall be placed on the tops of the beams or structural parts to which they may be secured, except that those for idler sheaves, may be placed below the beams, if the parts of the bearings in tension are composed of steel or wrought iron. Such bearings and supports shall possess a strength as specified in § 7.51 (relating to shaftway construction). In existing installations, the Department may, when it deems necessary, require that overhead machinery be relocated or so changed as to conform to safe practices.
(b) No new machinery may be located directly under the elevator shaftway. Existing machinery may remain in such a place, if there is sufficient pit depth, buffer support, and no other hazards involved, and subject to approval by the Board.
(c) Set screw fastenings shall not be used in lieu of keys in the construction or installation of hoisting and car safety mechanisms, except in new installations when the device has been approved by the Department. Cleats are not required when the ropes lead perpendicularly from both sides of the driving shaft.
(d) The operation of elevators by friction gearing or clutch mechanisms is prohibited when such mechanisms form the primary means for the transmission of the power required to operate elevators at normal speeds.
Source The provisions of this § 7.55 amended September 23, 1977, 7 Pa.B. 2696. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (17297) and (8069).
Cross References The provisions of this § 7.56 amended through June 28, 1967.
Cross References The provisions of this § 7.57 amended through January 27, 1978, 8 Pa.B. 251. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (8072).
Cross References The provisions of this § 7.58 amended September 23, 1977, 7 Pa.B. 2696. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (8074).
Cross References The provisions of this § 7.59 amended July 22, 1971, 1 Pa.B. 1651.
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.71 (relating to conflicts).
§ 7.60. Motive power.
The motive power of all passenger elevators shall be one of the following types:
(1) Direct connected electric, either drum or traction.
(2) Hydraulic plunger.
(3) Horizontal or vertical cylinder.
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.71 (relating to conflicts).
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
§ 7.71. Conflicts.
In addition to the special requirements of this section and § § 7.727.75 for various types of passenger elevators, the general requirements contained in § § 7.517.61 and § § 7.317.37 shall also be complied with, except in cases of direct conflict, where these provisions shall govern.
§ 7.72. Electric passenger elevators.
(a) Electric passenger elevators operated by polyphase alternating current motors shall be provided with relays of the potential type or other approved devices which prevent the starting of the motor if the phase rotation is in the wrong direction, or if there is a failure in any phase.
(b) No potential difference in excess of 250 volts shall be used in connection with the car switch or automatic control circuits of electric passenger elevators. When direct current is the only available source of power supply and it is impracticable to keep within this requirement, application may be made to the Department for special permission to use a higher voltage. Full information shall be given with every application for special permit. When stepdown transformers are used in connection with alternating current car switch and automatic control circuits, they shall be of the two-winding type.
(c) The machine controllers of electric passenger elevators shall be equipped with a potential switch of either the manually or power-closing type, so designed that when the current is interrupted from any cause whatever it will automatically apply the brake and stop the elevator car.
(d) An emergency switch shall be installed in every electric elevator car except automatic control. Such emergency switch shall operate to open a main line switch independent of the car-controlling circuit wiring.
(e) When the power for elevator control circuits is dependent upon main line circuit breakers, potential switches, or other similar electric apparatus, connections shall be made so that the operation of any fire alarm system which may be connected to such main line circuit breakers, potential switches, or other similar electric apparatus, does not cut off the power to the elevator control circuit.
(f) Switches shall be provided in connection with electric passenger elevators so that the motor control circuit and the brake control circuit shall be opened before or at the time the governor trips, or, in existing installations, when the safety operates as well.
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.71 (relating to conflicts) 34 Pa. Code § 7.149 (relating to hoistway doors); 34 Pa. Code § 7.189 (relating to hoistway doors); and 34 Pa. Code § 7.293 (relating to automatic and dual control freight elevators).
§ 7.74. Dual control passenger elevators.
(a) Dual control elevators are subject to all the requirements covering automatic control passenger elevators.
(b) Emergency releases, if used, shall be so arranged as to be inoperative when the elevator is being operated as an automatic controlled elevator.
(c) Car gate contacts shall be mounted on the gate in such a position as to require the closing of the car gate while operating the car from either the car switch or the pushbutton circuit.
Cross References The provisions of this § 7.76 amended through January 27, 1978, 8 Pa.B. 251. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (15209).
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.295 (relating to hydraulic freight elevators).
Subchapter C. SIDEWALK ELEVATORS
Sec.
7.91. Basement lifts.
7.92. Prohibited types.
7.93. Car travel and location.
7.94. Opening of doors.
7.95. Upper limit of travel.
7.96. Shaftway enclosures and gates.
7.97. Brakes.
7.98. Specifications of sidewalk doors.
7.99. Sheaves and drums of hoisting chains and cables.
7.100. Removal and reerection.
7.101. Stop switch and light.§ 7.91. Basement lifts.
The provisions of this subchapter apply to basement lifts, also designated as sidewalk elevators.
§ 7.92. Prohibited types.
Sidewalk elevators of the multiple or four point suspension type shall not be installed.
§ 7.93. Car travel and location.
Sidewalk elevators shall be limited to a car travel not exceeding 25 feet, except when special permission has been obtained from the Board. Such elevators shall not be located inside of any building.
§ 7.94. Opening of doors.
(a) The cars of new sidewalk power-driven elevators shall be provided with a substantial guard or bow to open and close the sidewalk doors. Constant-pressure key switches on street landings of sidewalk elevators shall be used for the entire control of the elevator within the distance of travel from the sidewalk level necessary to open or completely close the sidewalk doors. Control from the car, lower, or intermediate landings is permitted only within the car travel which does not cause the sidewalk doors to open or close.
(b) The cars of existing power-driven sidewalk elevators shall be provided with a substantial guard or bow to open the sidewalk doors, or the sidewalk doors shall be arranged to open by hand. When a guard or bow is used, substantial removable railings at least 42 inches in height shall be placed at the sidewalk level, constructed, and installed so that the car-controlling mechanism is locked and the elevator car held immovable until the railing is placed in position. A constant-pressure key switch on the street landings of sidewalk elevators may also be used in lieu of guardrails. When doors are to be opened by hand, the controlling mechanism shall be arranged to hold the car immovable while the doors are being opened, and the removable railing may be dispensed with, if other conditions meet the requirements of subsection (c).
(c) Sidewalk protection shall be achieved in accordance with the following:
(1) New installations. The doors at the sidewalk level of all sidewalk elevators shall not be permitted to be in an open position when the car is not at the street or sidewalk level.
(2) All installations. The doors of all sidewalk elevators shall not be in an open position when the car is not at the street or sidewalk level unless the following are present:
(i) There is a distance of at least 42 inches from the sidewalk to the top of the doors, when open, and the loading side of the shaftway is protected by a railing, bar, chain, or equivalent, at least 42 inches in height with a wire screen fastened below, the wire of which is at least No. 10 standard steel wire gauge.
(ii) When doors are not sufficiently large to maintain a height of 42 inches and it is desired to leave them open when the car is away from the sidewalk, additional railings 42 inches in height with wire screen, shall be provided alongside the doors.
§ 7.95. Upper limit of travel.
The upper limit of travel of a sidewalk elevator car shall not exceed three feet beyond the sidewalk or street level. When there is any travel beyond the sidewalk or street level, aprons shall be provided for the exposed side of the car.
§ 7.96. Shaftway enclosures and gates.
(a) Power-driven sidewalk elevators. Power-driven sidewalk elevators shall conform to the following:
(1) New installations. The shaftways of new power-driven sidewalk elevators or basement lifts, shall be enclosed on three sides, except for necessary openings for machinery. The loading sides of the lower and intermediate landings shall be provided with standard manually-operated gates or freight type doors, constructed and installed in accordance with the requirements for freight elevators; and be equipped with approved type interlocks. The cars of power-driven sidewalk elevators shall have all sides not used as a means of ingress or egress thereto solidly enclosed to a height of at least 6 feet. A car gate and contact shall be provided at the side served by the openings below the sidewalk level. The shaftway door at the basement landing shall be equipped with an emergency key.
(2) Existing installations. The shaftways of existing power-driven sidewalk elevators or basement lifts, shall be enclosed on three sides to a height of at least 6 feet, except for necessary openings for machinery. The loading sides or the lower and intermediate landings shall be provided with standard semiautomatic gates, constructed and installed in accordance with the requirements for freight elevators.
(b) Hand sidewalk elevators. Gates and shaftway enclosures are not required in connection with hand sidewalk elevators or basement lifts, except that semiautomatic gates shall be installed at intermediate landings.
§ 7.97. Brakes.
(a) Brakes shall be provided which are capable of stopping and holding the elevator car at any point of its travel with the car carrying its full-rated load.
(b) The machines of power-driven sidewalk elevators shall be provided with at least one dependable automatic terminal stop which automatically cuts off the power and applies the brake.
§ 7.98. Specifications of sidewalk doors.
(a) In new installations, sidewalk doors shall, when closed, be capable of sustaining a live load of at least 300 pounds per square foot. The dimensions of any sidewalk openings shall not exceed 5 by 7 feet except by special permission of the Board.
(b) In existing installations, sidewalk doors shall, when closed, be of sufficient strength to carry the loads to which they are subjected, without dangerous deflection.
§ 7.99. Sheaves and drums of hoisting chains and cables.
(a) When chains or cables are used for raising or lowering the cars of new power-operated sidewalk elevators, the sheaves or winding drums shall not be less than ten inches in diameter. The sheaves or winding drums of hand-operated sidewalk elevators shall be at least 10 inches in diameter when cables are used, but when chains are used a lesser diameter is permitted, if the sheaves are pocketed to receive the chains. Cable sizes shall be at least 3/8 inch in diameter. Sheaves or winding drums shall be equipped with substantial retaining flanges.
(b) Power-driven sidewalk elevators suspended from cables or chains shall be provided with approved rope-type car safeties. Such safeties shall be capable of stopping or holding the fully-loaded elevator car at any point of its travel.
§ 7.100. Removal and reerection.
The removal and reerection of any sidewalk elevator in a new location shall be in conformity with the requirements governing the installation of new sidewalk elevators.
§ 7.101. Stop switch and light.
A stop switch and light shall be installed in the cars of new sidewalk elevators.
Subchapter D. STAGE, ORCHESTRA, ORGAN CONSOLE
AND LUMBER ELEVATORS
Sec.
7.111. Shaftway construction.
7.112. Lifting capacity.
7.113. Control apparatus.
7.114. Driving mechanism.
7.115. Electrical equipment.
7.116. Platform construction.§ 7.111. Shaftway construction.
(a) The shaftways of orchestra and organ console elevators shall be of fire-resistive construction below the top landing. The inside surface of such shaftways, within the limits of travel, shall have a smooth finish without any projections or recesses except for landing entrances, guides and guide brackets, vertical slots when required for concealed guides, and junction boxes and conduits for wiring. Projections or recesses at landing entrances shall be beveled on the underside or guarded with metal plates. The angle of such bevels or guard plates shall not be less than 60° from the horizontal.
(b) The shaftways of lumber elevators shall be enclosed on all sides not used for loading or unloading with solid partitions not less than 6 feet in height and shall be flush. All points of loading and unloading shall be protected by movable bars or railings. Gates, as specified in § 7.278(c) (relating to landing gates) are required where the travel exceeds 6 feet and there are two or more landings. All shearing points shall be protected by flaring at an angle of not less than 60° from the horizontal.
(c) A pit shall be provided at the bottom of every shaftway of such depth that when the platform is at its lowest limit of travel the distance between the lowest point of the underside of the platform framing and to the floor of the pit shall not be less than 2 feet.
(d) The bottom landing openings of orchestra and organ console shaftways shall be protected by sliding doors of fire-resistive construction. If swinging doors are used they shall open outward.
(e) Railings and toeboards shall be provided at the floor levels of orchestra and organ console elevators.
(f) Steel rails shall be used for guides of stage, orchestra, and organ console elevators. Lumber elevators shall be provided with substantial guides of either wood or steel.
(g) Shaftway landing doors shall be equipped with approved locking devices.
§ 7.112. Lifting capacity.
(a) The lifting capacity of an orchestra or organ console elevator shall be equal to a live load of not less than 25 pounds per square foot of floor area of the platform.
(b) The lifting capacity of a stage elevator shall be equal to a live load of not less than 75 pounds per square foot of floor area of the platform.
(c) Railings, aprons, wiring, conduits, outlets, and the like, are considered as part of the weight of the movable platforms.
§ 7.113. Control apparatus.
(a) Operating switches shall be provided in a suitable location on the platforms of orchestra and organ console elevators. Emergency stop switches shall be provided and placed adjacent to the operating switches in as convenient a location as possible. A manually-operated double-pole disconnecting service switch shall be installed in the main line to cut off power from the operating machinery. When alternating current is used, reverse phase relays shall be provided.
(b) Lumber elevators shall be operated by switches or buttons located at a point where the entire shaftway is visible. Buttons shall be of the constant pressure type. Hand switches shall be of the self-centering type.
§ 7.114. Driving mechanism.
(a) When elevating screws are used they shall be of the direct connected type, either worm or beveled gears, and all gears shall be enclosed in a housing, except that chain drive lumber hoists are permitted when provided with equalizing chains or when approved slack chain switches are installed and enclosed.
(b) When a stage, orchestra, or organ console elevator is not supported or operated by either screws, plungers, or similar means, car safeties shall be provided under the platform capable of stopping and holding the platform with a full-rated load at any point of its travel.
(c) When lumber elevators are so installed that they are not within the intent of this subchapter, they shall be made to comply with the requirements for freight or passenger elevators.
§ 7.115. Electrical equipment.
(a) A suitably lighted room shall be provided outside of the shaftway for the motor controller and brake unless the motor and controller are placed in the pit, in which case stone or masonry piers or columns shall be provided to take sufficiently the impact of a full-loaded car.
(b) When the motor and controller are located in a shaftway pit or in a pit adjacent to the hoist, access to such pit shall be provided by means of a door entirely below the bottom of the platform when the platform is at its lowest limit of travel.
(c) Terminal limit switches located in the shaftway, or a stop motion device on the operating machine, shall be provided and arranged to automatically bring the platform to rest as it approaches either terminal landing.
(d) Final limit switches shall be provided at the top and bottom of the shaftway arranged to cut off the current and stop the platform if it runs by the terminal limit switches.
§ 7.116. Platform construction.
(a) The platforms of stage, orchestra, organ console and lumber elevators shall be of steel frame construction designed with a factor of safety of not less than six based on the rated load, uniformly distributed. Other parts of the equipment shall have a safety factor as required by this chapter.
(b) When orchestra and organ console elevators are installed in the same shaftway, the adjacent sides shall be provided with aprons of substantial construction or railings and toeboards, or all if necessary, to avoid a shearing hazard.
(c) When the travel of a stage, orchestra or organ console elevator extends above the top of the shaftway enclosure, aprons of substantial construction shall be provided on the platform of sufficient depth to enclose the space between the top of the shaftway enclosure and the underside of the platform when the platform is at its limit of travel.
(d) When the travel of a lumber elevator extends above the top of the surrounding floor level, an apron of substantial construction shall be provided on all sides of the platform of a sufficient depth to enclose the space between the floor level and the underside of the platform when the platform is at its limit of travel.
Subchapter E. PERSONAL SERVICE ELEVATORS
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS Sec.
7.131. Scope.
7.132. Removal from service.
7.133. Limitations.
7.134. Approval and operation.
SPECIFICATIONS
7.141. Hoistway enclosure.
7.142. Clearance.
7.143. Pits and overtravel.
7.144. Overhead support.
7.145. Pipes and wiring.
7.146. Counterweights.
7.147. Guide rail construction.
7.148. Protection of hoist cables.
7.149. Hoistway doors.
7.150. Elevator cars.
7.151. Limitations.
7.152. Machines and sheaves.
7.153. Limit switches.
7.154. Operation.
7.155. Suspension means.
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
§ 7.131. Scope.
This subchapter applies only to the elevators installed for the personal use of an individual, and one attendant, who submits to the Department certificate of a physician stating that the individual is not physically able to walk up and down stairs and therefore requires the use of a personal service elevator, to be used exclusively by him.
§ 7.132. Removal from service.
Personal service elevators shall be removed or sealed out of service upon the termination of the service for which they were orginally installed.
§ 7.133. Limitations.
The following may not be exceeded:
(1) The inside area of car shall be 12 square feet or less.
(2) The speed with load shall be 50 feet or less per minute.
(3) The contract load shall be 700 pounds or less.
(4) The operation shall be only be means of key-operated pushbuttons.
§ 7.134. Approval and operation.
Plans and specifications for personal service elevators shall be filed with the Department and an erection permit secured in accordance with § 7.31 (relating to submission and approval of plans) and section 11 of the act of May 2, 1929 (P. L. 1518, No. 452) (35 P. S. § 1351), before the work of installation is started. On the completion of the elevators, they shall be inspected and tested by the Department and not placed in operation until the Department issues a certificate of operation. The elevators shall be subject to reinspection at least once every 12 months, in accordance with § § 7.15 and 7.16 (relating to inspection; and inspectors), and section 7 of the act of May 2, 1929 (P. L. 1518, No. 452) (35 P. S. § 1347).
SPECIFICATIONS
§ 7.141. Hoistway enclosure.
The hoistway shall be constructed and enclosed in accordance with § 7.51 (relating to shaftway construction).
§ 7.142. Clearance.
(a) There shall be a clearance of at least 3/4 inch between the car and the hoistway enclosure, and between the car and its counterweight.
(b) The clearance between the car platform and the landing threshold shall be at least 1/2 inch, but not more than 1 1/2 inches.
§ 7.143. Pits and overtravel.
(a) The structure at the bottom of a hoistway shall be sufficiently strong to withstand without failure the impact of the car with contract load and the impact of the counterweight, when either is descending at contract speed, or at governor-tripping speed if a governor-operated safety is used.
(b) A pit at least 2 feet in depth shall be provided at the lowest story served.
(c) At the top landings there shall be a clearance between the top of the car crosshead and machine supports, or another obstruction vertically above the car, of at least 2 feet when the counterweight rests on its fully compressed buffers and a clearance between the top of the counterweight and an obstruction vertically above it of at least 6 inches when the car rests on its fully compressed buffers. When no counterweight is provided, clearance between the top of the car crosshead and the machines, supports, or other obstruction vertically above it when the car is at its uppermost landing shall be at least 2 feet, 6 inches.
§ 7.144. Overhead support.
(a) Machinery and sheaves shall be so supported and secured as to effectually prevent any part becoming loose or displaced. The supporting beams shall be composed of steel, sound timber or reinforced concrete.
(b) In computing the loads on overhead beams and their supports, the total load on overhead beams shall be assumed to be equal to the weight of all apparatus resting on the beams plus twice the maximum load suspended from the beams. The object in doubling the suspended load is to allow for impact, acceleration, stresses and the like. The load resting on the beams shall include the complete weights of the machine, sheaves, controller and the like. The load suspended from the beams shall include the sum of the tensions of all cables suspended from the beams.
(c) No elevator machinery or sheaves may be fastened to the underside of the supporting beams at the top of the hoistway, except the idler or deflecting sheaves with their guards and frames. Supporting members for sheaves and other elevator machinery hung underneath beams may not be of cast iron in tension.
(d) The factor of safety for overhead beams and their supports shall be five for steel and six for timber and reinforced concrete.
§ 7.145. Pipes and wiring.
(a) Wiring shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 39, Subchapter B (relating to electric safety).
(b) No pipes conveying steam, gas or liquids, which if discharged into the hoistway would endanger life, may be installed in the elevator or counterweight hoistway.
(c) Voltage of control circuits shall conform with the requirements of § 7.72 (relating to electric passenger elevators).
(d) All live parts of electrical apparatus in the hoistway shall be suitably enclosed to protect against accidental contact.
§ 7.146. Counterweights.
(a) Counterweights, when used, shall operate in guides located within the elevator shaftway, in accordance with the requirements of § 7.52(d) (relating to shaftway equipment).
(b) If a car counterweight is used, it shall not be of sufficient weight to cause slackening of any car hoist cable at the start or stop of the car.
(c) The counterweight sections, whether or not carried in a frame, shall be fastened together to prevent rattle and displacement.
§ 7.147. Guide rail construction.
(a) Car and counterweight guide rails shall be constructed of steel.
(b) Guide rails shall be securely fastened in accordance with the following:
(1) Guide rails and their fastenings shall not deflect more than 1/4 inch under normal operation.
(2) Joints of guide rails shall be well-fitted and strongly secured.
(3) Guide rails and their joints and fastenings shall withstand the application of the safety when stopping the fully-loaded car.
(c) Guide rails shall extend from the bottom of the hoistway to a height above the top landing sufficient to prevent the guide shoes from running off the guides when the car or counterweight is at the extreme upper position.
§ 7.148. Protection of hoist cables.
Hoist and counterweight ropes or suspension chains shall be located inside the hoistway enclosure.
§ 7.149. Hoistway doors.
(a) Landing openings shall be protected by doors of the horizontally swinging or sliding type. Grille or lattice-type construction shall not be used when fire-resistive hoistway enclosures are required.
(b) When swing-type doors are used the clearance between the hoistway enclosure door or gate and the hoistway edge of the landing sill shall not exceed two inches and the distance between the hoistway face of the landing door and the car door or gate shall not exceed four inches. When sliding-type doors with door closures are used the clearances specified may be increased to 2 1/4 inches and 5 1/2 inches respectively.
(c) The hoistway face of the landing door or gate shall not project into the hoistway beyond the landing sill. No hardware, except that required for door-operating devices, locks, contacts, or signals shall project into the hoistway beyond the line of the landing sill.
(d) Hoistway doors or gates shall be provided with locking devices and electric contacts conforming to the requirements of § § 7.54 and 7.73 (relating to landing doors and locking devices; automatic control passenger elevators).
(e) No means shall be provided to open any landing door from the landing side when the car is not in the landing zone.
(f) Hoistway doors shall be so arranged that it will not be necessary to reach behind any panel, jamb, or sash to operate them.
(g) Means shall be provided to prevent hangers for sliding hoistway doors from jumping the track. Stops shall be provided to prevent the hanger carriage from leaving either end of the track, or suitable stops shall be provided on the door.
§ 7.150. Elevator cars.
(a) Construction. Elevator cars shall have metal or combination metal and wood suspension frames and platforms with a safety factor of not less than five, based on the contract load. Cast iron shall not be used in the construction of any member of the car frame or platform other than for guide shoes and guide shoes brackets, nor shall glass be used in an elevator car except for lights and appliances necessary to the operation of the car. Cars shall have only one compartment.
(b) Enclosure. Except at the entrance, cars shall be enclosed at the sides and top. The enclosure at the sides shall be solid or of open work which will reject a ball of 1/2 inch diameter. The car enclosure shall be secured in such a manner that it does not work loose or become displaced in regular service.
(c) Gates. A car door or gate shall be provided at each entrance to a car, as follows:
(1) The door or gate shall, when closed, guard the opening to a height of at least five feet, six inches, and, if on an electric or electrically controlled hydraulic elevator, shall be provided with an electric contact which prevents operation of the elevator unless the car door or gate is within two inches of full closure.
(2) The car door or gate may be manually operated, power operated, or closed by a weight or spring. Collapsible gates shall not be power-opened more than nine inches from full closure.
(3) Car gates shall be of such a design that when fully expanded they will reject a three inch ball.
(4) Car door or gate contacts shall be positively opened by a lever or other device attached to and operated by the door or gate.
(5) Car door or gate contacts shall be maintained in the open position by the action of gravity or a restrained compression spring or both, or by a positive linkage.
(d) Light. There shall be an electric light to illuminate the car, with its switch placed near the car entrance within easy reach of a person before entering the car.
(e) Safety. Elevator cars suspended by wire ropes or chains shall be provided with a car safety capable of stopping and sustaining the car with contract load, as follows:
(1) The car safety shall be of a type operated as the result of the breaking of the suspension means, or by a speed governor. If of the speed governor type, it shall operate to set the safety at a maximum speed of 175 feet per minute, except that on breaking the hoist ropes, the safety shall operate without appreciable delay and independently of the governor speed action.
(2) If a speed governor is used, it shall be located where it is not struck by the car or counterweight in case of overtravel and where there is sufficient space for full movement of the governor parts.
(3) The motor control circuit and the brake control circuit shall be opened before or at the same time the safety applies.
(4) The governor cable shall be of iron, steel, monel metal or phosphor bronze, not less than 1/4 inch in diameter. Tiller rope construction shall not be used for governor ropes.
(5) Elevators of the winding drum type with wire rope suspension shall be provided with a slack rope device of the manually reset type which cuts off the power and stops the elevator machine if the car is obstructed in its descent and the hoist ropes slacken. When the car is suspended by chains, slack chain devices shall be provided which cut off the power and stop the elevator machine if the car is obstructed in its descent and the suspension chains slacken. This device is not required to be of the manually reset type if the chain sprockets are guarded to prevent the chain from jumping off the sprockets.
(6) No safety device which depends upon the completion and maintenance of an electric circuit for the application of the safety shall be used. Car safeties shall be applied mechanically. Cast iron shall not be used in the construction of a car safety when its breakage might result in the failure of the safety to function to sustain the car.
(f) Tests. Tests of the car safety described in subsection (e), with contract load in the car, shall be made before the elevator is put into service. Governor operation of instantaneous-type safeties shall be tested at contract speed by tripping the governor by hand. Safeties operated as the result of the breaking of the hoist ropes shall be tested by obtaining the necessary slack rope to cause them to function.
(g) Capacity plates. A metal plate shall be fastened in a conspicuous place in the car stating the contract load in pounds, in letters and figures not less than 1/4 inch in height.
(h) Emergency signal. An emergency signal shall be provided, operative from the car, and audible outside the hoistway and may be a telephone connected to a central exchange.
§ 7.151. Limitations.
When the contract load exceeds 700 pounds or the contract speed exceeds 50 feet per minute, or the net inside car platform area exceeds 12 square feet, the elevator shall conform to all requirements of this chapter.
§ 7.152. Machines and sheaves.
(a) Winding drums, traction sheaves and overhead and deflecting sheaves shall be of cast iron or steel, of a diameter not less than 30 times the diameter of the wire hoist ropes. The rope grooves shall be machined. Where eight by 19 plow steel ropes are used, the diameter of drums and sheaves may be reduced to 20 times the diameter of the rope.
(b) The factor of safety based on the static load, that is, the contract load plus the weight of car, ropes, counterweights, and the like, to be used in the design of personal service elevator hoisting machines shall not be less than eight for wrought iron and steel, and ten for cast iron, cast steel, or other material.
(c) Set-screw fastenings shall not be used in lieu of keys or pins at a connection subject to torque or tension.
(d) No friction gearing or clutch mechanism shall be used for connecting the hoist drum or sheaves to the main driving gear.
(e) Gearing having cast iron teeth shall not be used.
(f) Electric elevator machines shall be equipped with electrically-released, spring-applied brakes.
(g) No single ground, short circuit, counter-voltage or motor field discharge shall prevent the brake magnet from allowing the brake to set in the intended manner during normal operation.
(h) An electric elevator machine shall be arranged for manual operation by crank in case of power failure, and a suitable crank shall be provided and kept near the machine.
§ 7.153. Limit switches.
Upper and lower normal stopping devices shall be provided, set to stop the car at the upper and lower terminal landings. Final stopping devices shall be provided and set to operate if the car passes the terminal landings. Such stopping devices shall stop the car before it strikes the overhead or pit bottom. The final terminal stopping device shall act to prevent movement of the car in both directions of travel. The normal and final terminal stopping devices shall not control the same switches on the controller unless two or more separate and independent switches are provided, two of which shall be closed to complete the motor and brake circuit in each direction of travel.
§ 7.154. Operation.
(a) The following methods of operation are permitted:
(1) Double-button control.
(2) Momentary-pressure operation with up-down buttons or switches in the car and up-down buttons or switches, or call buttons, at each landing. It is not required that the operation be selective.
(3) Single automatic operation.
(4) Car and landing operating buttons shall be key-operated. The use of such key shall be limited to the individual for whom the elevator was installed.
(b) A stop switch shall be provided on or adjacent to the operating panel. Stop switches shall be of the manually opened and closed type and shall be conspicuously marked stop, and the operating button or handle shall be of a different color from any other switch in the car.
(c) The control system shall be so designed that the direction of travel of the elevator may be reversed at any point in the hoistway after stopping the elevator from the stop switch or any other method. No control system shall be used which depends upon completion of maintenance of an electric circuit for the following:
(1) Interruption of the power and application of the electro-mechanical brake at the terminals.
(2) Operation of the car safeties.
(3) Stopping in response to the opening of the emergency stop switch.
(d) Hand-rope operation shall not be used.
(e) The sticking or freezing of any single electrically-operated switch, relay, or contacter, or the occurrence of a single accidental ground shall not permit the car to start if any hoistway landing door is open or unlocked, or if any car door or gate is not within two inches of full closure.
§ 7.155. Suspension means.
(a) Suspension means shall be wire ropes or suspension chains. There shall not be less than two such ropes or chains.
(b) Steel tapes or tiller rope as suspension means is prohibited.
(c) On elevators having a contract load of less than 450 pounds and operating at a contract speed of less than 30 feet per minute, ropes shall not be less than 1/4 inch in diameter. When the contract load exceeds 450 pounds, or the contract speed exceeds 30 feet per minute, ropes shall not be less than 3/8 inch diameter.
(d) The factor of safety of the suspension means shall not be less than seven. When the car and counterweight are suspended by wire ropes and the driving means between the machine and counterweight is an endless chain, the factor of safety of such chain with the rated load in the car shall be not less than eight.
(e) The arc of contact of a wire rope on a traction sheave shall be sufficient to produce adequate traction under all load conditions. The arc of contact of a chain on a driving sprocket shall not be less than 140°.
(f) Wire ropes anchored to a winding drum shall have not less than one full turn of rope on the drum when the car or counterweight has reached its extreme limit of possible overtravel.
(g) No car or counterweight wire rope shall be lengthened or repaired by splicing. Broken or worn suspension chains shall not be repaired but the entire chain shall be replaced.
(h) The winding drum ends of car and counterweight wire ropes shall be secured by clamps on the inside of the drum or by one of the methods specified in subsection (i) for fastening wire ropes to car or counterweight.
(i) The car or counterweight ends of wire ropes shall be fastened by return loop, properly made individual, tapered, babbitted sockets, or attached fittings as recommended by wire rope manufacturers. Clamps of the U-bolt type shall not be used.
(j) A metal tag shall be placed on all wire ropes or chain fastenings, or be permanently fixed on the car frame, upon which shall be stamped the size, the material, the ultimate strength of the rope or chain, as rated by the manufacturer, and the date of installation or renewal.
Subchapter F. POWER-OPERATED SPECIAL INDUSTRIAL
SERVICE ELEVATORS
GENERAL Sec.
7.171. Applicability.
7.172. Removal from service.
7.173. Limitations.
7.174. Approval and operation.
SPECIFICATIONS
7.181. Hoistway enclosure.
7.182. Clearance.
7.183. Pits and overtravel.
7.184. Overload support.
7.185. Pipes and wiring.
7.186. Counterweights.
7.187. Guide rail construction.
7.188. Protection of hoist cables.
7.189. Hoistway doors.
7.190. Elevator cars.
7.191. Limitations.
7.192. Machines and sheaves.
7.193. Limit switches.
7.194. Operation.
7.195. Suspension means.
GENERAL
§ 7.171. Applicability.
This subchapter applies only to elevators installed in industrial buildings, such as grain and feed mills, chemical and alcohol distilleries, cement storage towers, radio towers and similar industries, which are not accessible to the general public, for the exclusive use of certain designated operating and maintenance employes when transportation of one or two men is required for a distance of several floors to attend machinery or equipment requiring frequent attention. No persons other than the employes may ride thereon.
§ 7.172. Removal from service.
Power-operated special industrial service elevators shall be removed or sealed out of service upon the termination of the service for which they were originally installed.
§ 7.173. Limitations.
The following may not be exceeded:
(1) The inside area of car shall be 900 square inches or less.
(2) The speed with load shall be 100 feet or less per minute.
(3) The contract load shall be 300 pounds or less.
(4) The operation shall be only by means of pushbuttons.
§ 7.174. Approval and operation.
Plans and specifications for power-operated special industrial service elevators shall be filed with the Department and an erection permit secured in accordance with § 7.31 (relating to submission and approval of plans) and section 11 of the act of May 2, 1929 (P. L. 1518, No. 452) (35 P. S. § 1351), before the work of installation is started. On the completion of the elevators, they shall be inspected and tested by the Department and not placed in regular operation until the Department issues a certificate of operation. The elevator shall be subject to reinspection at least once every 6 months, in accordance with § § 7.15 and 7.16 (relating to inspection; and inspectors) and the act of May 2, 1929 (P. L. 1518, No. 452) (35 P. S. § 1347).
SPECIFICATIONS
§ 7.181. Hoistway enclosure.
The hoistway shall be constructed and enclosed in accordance with the requirements of § 7.51 (relating to shaftway construction), except that when a building is of open construction throughout, and the elevator does not travel through fireproof floors, grille, or latticework, an enclosure 6 feet high shall be provided around the shaftway at each floor. An enclosure of full height shall be provided on the open side or sides of the car and on other sides where hazards exist, such as stairways. The grille or or latticework shall conform to § 7.51.
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.191 (relating to limitations).
§ 7.182. Clearance.
(a) There shall be a clearance of not less than 3/4 inch between the car and the hoistway enclosure, and between the car and its counterweight.
(b) The clearance between the car platform and the landing threshold shall be not less than 1/2 inch, nor more more than 1 1/2 inches.
§ 7.183. Pits and overtravel.
(a) The structure at the bottom of a hoistway shall be sufficiently strong to withstand without failure the impact of the car with contract load, and the impact of the counterweight, when either is descending at contract speed, or at governor-tripping speed if a governor-operated safety is used.
(b) A pit not less than two feet in depth shall be provided at the lowest story served and a substantial spring bumper shall be located in such pit, set to strike the steel safety plank of the car. A minimum of one foot clearance shall be provided under the platform when the car rests on the fully compressed bumper.
(c) At the top landings there shall be a clearance between the top of the car crosshead and machine supports, or any other obstruction vertically above the car, of not less than two feet when the counterweight rests on its fully compressed buffers and a clearance between the top of the counterweight and any obstruction vertically above it of not less than six inches when the car rests on its fully compressed buffers. When no counterweight is provided, clearance between the top of the car crosshead and the machines, supports, or other obstruction vertically above it when the car is at its uppermost landing shall not be less than two feet, six inches.
§ 7.184. Overload support.
(a) All machinery and sheaves shall be so supported and secured as to effectually prevent any part becoming loose or displaced. The supporting beams shall be composed of steel, sound timber, or reinforced concrete.
(b) In computing the loads on overhead beams and their supports, the total load on overhead beams shall be assumed to be equal to the weight of all apparatus resting on the beams plus twice the maximum load suspended from the beams. The object in doubling the suspended load is to allow for impact, acceleration, stresses, and the like. The load resting on the beams shall include the complete weights of the machine, sheaves, controller, and the like. The load suspended from the beams shall include the sum of the tensions of all cables suspended from the beams.
(c) No elevator machinery or sheaves shall be fastened to the underside of the supporting beams at the top of the hoistway, except the idler or deflecting sheaves with their guards and frames. Supporting members for sheaves and other elevator machinery hung underneath beams shall not be of cast iron in tension.
(d) The factor of safety for overhead beams and their supports shall be five for steel and six for timber and reinforced concrete.
§ 7.185. Pipes and wiring.
(a) Wiring shall comply with Chapter 39, Subchapter B (relating to electric safety).
(b) No pipes conveying steam, gas or liquids, which if discharged into the hoistway would endanger life, shall be installed in the elevator or counterweight hoistway.
(c) Voltage of control circuits shall conform with the requirements of § 7.72 (relating to electric passenger elevators).
(d) Live parts of electrical apparatus in the hoistway shall be suitably enclosed to protect against accidental contact.
§ 7.186. Counterweights.
Counterweights, when used, shall operate in guides located within the elevator shaftway, in accordance with the requirements of § 7.52(d) (relating to shaftway equipment). Sides of the counterweight runway exposed to the outside shaftway shall be guarded.
§ 7.187. Guide rail construction.
(a) Car and counterweight guide rails shall be constructed of steel or wood. If wood is used it shall be maple or equivalent and of not less than 1-1/2 by 2 inches.
(b) Guide rails shall be securely fastened, in accordance with the following:
(1) Guide rails and their fastenings shall not deflect more than 1/4 inch under normal operation.
(2) Joints of guide rails shall be well-fitted and strongly secured.
(3) Guide rails and their joints and fastenings shall withstand the application of the safety when stopping the fully-loaded car.
(c) Guide rails shall extend from the bottom of the hoistway to a height above the top landing sufficient to prevent the guide shoes from running off the guides when the car or counterweight is at the extreme upper position.
§ 7.188. Protection of hoist cables.
Hoist and counterweight ropes or suspension chains shall be located inside the hoistway enclosure.
§ 7.189. Hoistway doors.
(a) Landing openings shall be protected by manually-operated doors or gates of the horizontally swinging or sliding type or vertically sliding type. Grille or lattice-type construction shall not be used where fire-resistive hoistway enclosures are required. The construction of such doors and gates shall conform to the requirements of § § 7.275 and 7.278 (relating to landing doors; landing gates).
(b) When swing-type doors are used the clearance between the hoistway enclosure door or gate and the hoistway edge of the landing sill shall not exceed two inches and the distance between the hoistway face of the landing door and the car door or gate shall not exceed four inches. When sliding-type doors with door enclosures are used the clearances specified may be increased to 2 1/4 inches and 5 1/2 inches respectively.
(c) The hoistway face of the landing door or gate shall not project into the hoistway beyond the landing sill. No hardware, except that required for door-operating devices, locks, contacts, or signals shall project into the hoistway beyond the line of the landing sill.
(d) Hoistway doors or gates shall be provided with approved interlocks conforming to the requirements of § § 7.54 and 7.73 (relating to landing doors and locking devices; and automatic control passenger elevators).
(e) No means shall be provided which will open any landing door from the landing side when the car is not in the landing zone.
(f) Hoistway doors shall be so arranged as to make it unnecessary to reach in back of any panel, jamb or sash to operate them.
(g) Means shall be provided to prevent hangers for sliding hoistway doors from jumping the track. Stops shall be provided to prevent the hanger carriage from leaving either end of the track, or suitable stops shall be provided on the door.
(h) Gates shall be 5 feet, 6 inches, in height.
§ 7.190. Elevator cars.
(a) Construction. Elevator cars shall have metal car frames and outside frames of platforms with a safety factor of not less than five, based on the rated load. Cast iron shall not be used in the construction of any member of the car frame or platform other than for guide shoes and guide shoes brackets, nor shall glass be used in an elevator car except for car lights and appliances necessary to the operation of the car. Cars shall have only one compartment.
(b) Enclosure. Except at the entrance, cars shall be enclosed at the sides and top. The enclosure at the sides shall be solid or of open work which will reject a ball of 1/2 inch diameter. The car enclosure shall be secured in such a manner that it may not work loose or become displaced in regular service.
(c) Gates. A car door or gate shall be provided at each entrance to a car as follows:
(1) The door or gate shall, when closed, guard the opening to a height of at least five feet, six inches, and, if on an electric or electrically-controlled hydraulic elevator, shall be provided with an electric contact which prevents operation of the elevator unless the car door or gate is within two inches of full closure. Car doors or gates may be horizontal or vertical sliding.
(2) The car door or gate shall be manually operated.
(3) Car gates shall be of such a design that when fully expanded they will reject a three inch ball.
(4) Car door or gate contacts shall be positively opened by a lever or other device attached to and operated by the door or gate and shall not be solely dependent on gravity or springs or both for their opening.
(5) Car door or gate contracts shall be maintained in the open position by the action of gravity or a restrained compression spring or both, or by means of a positive linkage.
(d) Light. There shall be an electric light to illuminate the car, with its switch placed near the car entrance within easy reach of a person before entering the car.
(e) Safety. Elevator cars suspended by wire ropes or chains shall be provided with a car safety located beneath the car platform and capable of stopping and sustaining the car with contract load, as follows:
(1) The car safety shall be of a type operated as the result of the breaking of the suspension means, or by a speed governor. If of the speed governor type, it shall operate to set the safety at the maximum speed of 175 feet per minute, except that on breaking the hoist ropes, the safety shall operate without appreciable delay and independently of the governor speed action.
(2) If a speed governor is used, it shall be located where it may not be struck by the car or counterweight in case of overtravel and where there is sufficient space for full movement of the governor parts.
(3) The motor control circuit and the brake control circuit shall be opened before or at the same time the safety applies.
(4) The governor cable shall be of iron, steel, monel metal, or phosphor bronze, not less than 1/4 inch in diameter. Tiller rope construction shall not be used for governor ropes.
(5) Elevators of the winding drum type with wire rope suspension shall be provided with a slack rope device of the manually reset type which cuts off the power and stops the elevator machine if the car is obstructed in its descent and the hoist ropes slacken. When the car is suspended by chains, slack chain devices shall be provided which cut off the power and stop the elevator machine if the car is obstructed in its descent and the suspension chains slacken. This device is not required to be of the manually reset type if the chain sprockets are guarded to prevent the chain from jumping off the sprockets.
(6) No safety device which depends upon the completion and maintenance of an electric circuit for the application of the safety shall be used. Car safeties shall be applied mechanically. Cast iron shall not be used in the construction of a car safety when its breakage may result in the failure of the safety to function to sustain the car.
(f) Tests. Tests of the car safety described in subsection (e), with contract load in the car, shall be made before the elevator is put into service. Governor operation of instantaneous-type safeties shall be tested at contract speed by tripping the governor by hand. Safeties operated as the result of the breaking of the hoist ropes shall be tested by obtaining the necessary slack rope to cause them to function.
(g) Capacity plates. A metal plate shall be fastened in a conspicuous place in the car stating the contract load in pounds, in letters and figures not less than 1/4 inch in height.
(h) Emergency signal. An emergency signal shall be provided operative from the car, and audible outside the hoistway and may be a telephone connected to a central exchange.
§ 7.191. Limitations.
When conditions do not conform in all respects with the requirements of § 7.181 (relating to hoistway enclosure), the elevator shall conform to all requirements of this chapter.
§ 7.192. Machines and sheaves.
(a) Winding drums, traction sheaves, and overhead and deflecting sheaves shall be of cast iron or steel, of a diameter not less than 30 times the diameter of the wire hoist ropes. The rope grooves shall be machined. When eight by 19 plow steel ropes are used, the diameter of drums and sheaves may be reduced to 20 times the diameter of the rope.
(b) The factor of safety based on the static load, that is, the contract load plus the weight of car, ropes, counterweights, and the like, to be used in the design of these elevator-hoisting machines shall not be less than eight for wrought iron and steel, and ten for cast iron, cast steel or other material.
(c) Set-screw fastenings shall not be used in lieu of keys or pins at a connection subject to torque or tension.
(d) No friction gearing or clutch mechanism shall be used for connecting the hoist drum or sheaves to the main driving gear.
(e) Gearing having cast iron teeth shall not be used.
(f) Electric eleavtor machines shall be equipped with electrically-released, spring-applied brakes which apply automatically if the operating device or stopping contacts are in the stop position.
(g) No single ground, short circuit, countervoltage, or motor field discharge shall prevent the brake magnet from allowing the brake to set if the operating device or stopping contacts are in the stop position.
(h) An electric elevator machine shall be arranged for manual operation by crank in case of power failure and a suitable crank shall be provided and kept near the machine.
§ 7.193. Limit switches.
Upper and lower normal stopping devices shall be provided, set to stop the car at the upper and lower terminal landings. Final stopping devices shall be provided and set to stop the car before it strikes the overhead or pit bottom, if the car passes the terminal landings. The final terminal stopping device shall act to prevent movement of the car in both directions of travel. The normal and final terminal stopping devices shall not control the same switches on the controller unless two or more separate and independent switches are provided, two of which shall be closed to complete the motor and brake circuit in each direction of travel. Drum-type machines shall also be provided with automatic machine terminal stop switches.
§ 7.194. Operation.
(a) The following methods of operation are permitted:
(1) Double-button control.
(2) Momentary-pressure operation with up-down buttons or switches in the car and up-down buttons or switches, or call buttons, at each landing. It is not required that the operation be selective.
(3) Single automatic operation.
(b) A stop switch shall be provided on or adjacent to the operating panel. Stop switches shall be of the manually opened and closed type and shall be conspicuously marked stop and the operating button or handle shall be of a different color from any other switch in the car. The opening of the switch contacts shall not be solely dependent on springs.
(c) The control system shall be so designed that the direction of travel of the elevator be reversed at any point in the hoistway after stopping the elevator from the stop switch or any other method. No control system shall be used which depends upon completion of maintenance of an electric circuit for the following:
(1) Interruption of the power and application of the electro-mechanical brake at the terminals.
(2) Operation of the car safeties.
(3) Stopping in response to the opening of the emergency stop switch.
(d) Hand-rope operation shall not be used.
(e) The sticking or freezing of any single electrically-operated switch, relay, or contactor or the occurrence of a single accidental ground shall not permit the car to start if any hoistway landing door is open or unlocked, or if any car door or gate is not within two inches of full closure.
§ 7.195. Suspension means.
(a) Suspension means shall be wire ropes or suspension chains. There shall not be less than two such ropes or chains.
(b) Steel tape or tiller rope as suspension means is prohibited.
(c) On elevators operating at a contract speed of less than 30 feet per minute, ropes shall not be less than 1/4 inch in diameter. When the contract speed exceeds 30 feet per minute, ropes shall not be less than 3/8 inch in diameter.
(d) The factor of safety of the suspension means shall not be less than seven. When the car and counterweight are suspended by wire ropes and the driving means between the machine and counterweight is an endless chain, the factor of safety of such chain with rated load in the car shall be not less than eight.
(e) The arc of contract of a wire rope on a traction sheave shall be sufficient to produce adequate traction under all load conditions. The arc of contact of a chain on a driving sprocket shall not be less than 140 degrees.
(f) Wire ropes anchored to a winding drum shall have not less than one full turn of rope on the drum when the car or counterweight has reached its extreme limit of possible overtravel.
(g) No car or counterweight wire rope shall be lengthened or repaired by splicing. Broken or worn suspension chains shall not be repaired but the entire chain shall be replaced.
(h) The winding drum ends of car and counterweight wire ropes shall be secured by clamps on the inside of the drum or by one of the methods specified in subsection (i) for fastening wire ropes to the car or counterweight.
(i) The car or counterweight ends of wire ropes shall be fastened by return loop, by properly made individual, tapered, babbitted sockets, or attached fittings as recommended by wire rope manufacturers.
(j) A metal tag shall be placed on wire rope or chain fastenings, or be permanently fixed on the car frame, upon which shall be stamped the size, the material, the ultimate strength of the rope or chain, as rated by the manufacturer, and the date of installation or renewal.
Subchapter G. MANLIFTS
GENERAL Sec.
7.211. Applicability.
7.212. Removal from service.
7.213. Approval and operation.
SPECIFICATIONS
7.221. Locked doors.
7.222. Floor openings.
7.223. Landings.
7.224. Landing guards.
7.225. Floor opening guards.
7.226. Protection of entrances and exits.
7.227. Bottom arrangement.
7.228. Top clearances.
7.229. Emergency exit ladders.
7.230. Illumination.
7.231. Machines.
7.232. Exhibitssafety diagrams.
7.233. Speed.
7.234. Steps.
7.235. Handholds.
7.236. Stops.
7.237. Safety.
7.238. Signs required.
7.239. Carriage of materials and tools.
7.240. Acceptance tests.
GENERAL
§ 7.211. Applicability.
This subchapter applies only to new manlifts installed in parking garages and industrial buildings, such as grain and feed mills, chemical and alcohol distilleries, cement storage towers and similar industries, for the exclusive use of certain designated operating or maintenance employes, when transportation of the persons is required for a distance of several floors. No persons other than the employes may be permitted to ride thereon.
§ 7.212. Removal from service.
Manlifts shall be removed or sealed out of service upon the termination of the service for which they were originally installed.
§ 7.213. Approval and operation.
Plans and specifications for manlifts shall be filed with the Department and an erection permit secured in accordance with § 7.31 (relating to submission and approval of plans) and section 11 of the act of May 2, 1929 (P. L. 1518, No. 452) (35 P. S. § 1351), before the work of installation is started. On the completion of the elevators, they shall be inspected and tested by the Department and not placed in regular operation until the Department issues a certificate of operation. The elevators shall be subject to reinspection at least every 6 months, in accordance with § § 7.15 and 7.16 (relating to inspection; and inspectors), and section 7 of the act of May 2, 1929 (P. L. 1518, No. 452) (35 P. S. § 1347).
SPECIFICATIONS
§ 7.221. Locked doors.
When manlifts are located in buildings, such as parking garages, to which the public has access, they shall be located in an enclosure protected by self-closing, spring-locked doors, at all floors to which the public has access. Keys to the doors shall be limited to employes. In lieu of spring-locked doors, which require a key, a magnetic-type lock is permitted. If the actuating pushbutton is located at least 7 feet above the floor in an inconspicuous location.
§ 7.222. Floor openings.
(a) Floor openings for a manlift shall be uniform in size, be approximately circular and be located vertically above the opening below it.
(b) Floor openings for both up and down runs shall conform to the following:
Belt
(in inches)Floor Opening Width
(in inches)12 2832 14 3438 16 3640 (c) Floor openings shall extend not more than 24 inches nor more than 28 inches from the face of the belt.
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.223 (relating to landings).
§ 7.225. Floor opening guards.
(a) The floor opening at each landing shall be guarded on sides not used for entrance or exit by a standard railing and toeboard or by panels or wire mesh of not less than No. 10 U.S. gage, expanded metal of not less than No. 13 U.S. gage or sheet metal of equivalent strength or metal on a frame of angle iron not less than 1 1/4 inch by 1 1/4 inch by 1/8 inch or of 1 1/4 inch iron pipe.
(b) Such rails or guards shall be at least 42 inches in height on the up-running side and 66 inches on the down-running side. If a guardrail is used the section of the guard above the rail may be of the construction specified in subsection (a), or may consist of vertical metal bars which will reject a ball 6 inches in diameter. Rails or guards shall be located not more than one foot from the edge of the floor opening.
§ 7.226. Protection of entrances and exits.
(a) The entrances and exits at all floors or landings affording access to a manlift shall be guarded by a maze (staggered railing) or a handrail equipped with self-closing gates.
(b) Such rails shall be standard guardrails with toeboards meeting the requirements of a standard railing and toeboard as prescribed in this chapter.
(c) Gates, if used, shall open outward and be self-closing. Corners of such gates shall be rounded.
(d) Maze or staggered openings shall offer no direct passage between enclosure and outer floor space.
(e) Rails shall be located at least 2 feet from the edge of the opening, measured at right angles to the face of the belt and on at least one side parallel with the face of the belt. If lesser clearance exists on the opposite side it shall be uniform throughout the travel of the manlift. The intersection of the top rail and the end post at openings shall be a bend or standard long sweep ell.
(f) Entrances at all landings shall be in the same relative position, except where the building layout prevents.
§ 7.227. Bottom arrangement.
(a) At the bottom landing the clear area shall not be smaller than the area enclosed by the guardrails on the floors above, and any wall in front of the down-running side of the belt shall be not less than 48 inches from the face of the belt. Such space shall not be encroached upon by stairs or ladder.
(b) The lower, or boot pulley shall be installed so that it is supported by the lowest landing served.
(c) A mounting platform shall be provided in front or to one side of the up-run at the lowest landing, unless the floor level is such that the floor or platform is at or above the point at which the upper surface of the ascending step assumes a horizontal position.
(d) An allowance for belt stretch shall be made in the original layout.
§ 7.228. Top clearances.
(a) A top clearance shall be provided of at least 11 feet above the top terminal landing. Such clearance shall be maintained from a plane through each face of the belt to a vertical cylindrical plane having a diameter of 2 feet greater than the diameter of the floor opening, and extending upward from the top floor to the ceiling on the up-running side of the belt. No encroachment of structural or machine-supporting members within such space is permitted.
(b) There shall be a clearance of at least 5 feet between the center of the head pulley shaft and any ceiling obstruction. The center of the head-pulley shaft shall be not less than six feet above the top terminal landing.
§ 7.229. Emergency exit ladders.
A fixed metal ladder accessible from both the up and down-run of the manlift shall be provided when the vertical distance between landings exceeds 20 feet, and be in accordance with existing laws governing ladders. An enclosing cage shall not be provided.
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.223 (relating to landings).
§ 7.230. Illumination.
Both runs of a manlift shall be illuminated at all times when it is in operation. An intensity of not less than 1 foot-candle shall be maintained at all points. Landings shall be illuminated as provided in § 7.223 (relating to landings).
§ 7.231. Machines.
(a) Types. Machines shall be of the direct-connected type or shall be driven by multiple V-belts. Cast iron gears shall not be used.
(b) Brake. A mechanically-applied, electrically released brake shall be applied to the motor shaft for direct connected units or to the input shaft for belt-driven units. The brake shall be capable of stopping and holding the manlift when the descending side is loaded with 250 pounds on each step.
(c) Belt. Belts shall conform to the following:
(1) Material. The belts shall be made of hardwoven canvas, rubber-coated canvas, leather, or other material meeting the strength requirements of paragraph(s) of this subsection, and having a coefficient of friction such that when used in conjunction with an adequate tension device it will meet the brake test specified in subsection (b).
(2) Width. The width of belts shall conform to the following:
Minimum Width
(in inches)Total Travel
(in feet)12 0100 14 100150 16 More than 150 (3) Strength. The strength of belts shall be not less than 1,500 pounds per inch of belt width for belts having a distance between pulley centers not in excess of 100 feet and 1,800 pounds per inch of belt width for belts having a distance between pulley centers of over 100 feet but in excess of 200 feet for over 200 feet, 2,450 pounds per inch of belt width.
(4) Belt fastenings. Belts shall be fastened by a lapped splice or shall be butt-spliced with a strap on each side of the belt as follows:
(i) For lapped splices, the overlap of the belt at the splice shall be not less than three feet when the total travel of the manlift does not exceed 100 feet and not less than four feet if the travel exceeds 100 feet.
(ii) When butt splices are used the straps shall extend not less than 3 feet on one side of the butt for a travel not in excess of 100 feet and 4 feet for a travel in excess of 100 feet.
(iii) For 12 inch belts, the joint shall be fastened with not less than 20 special elevator bolts, each of a minimum diameter of 1/4 inch. Such bolts shall be arranged symmetrically in five rows so arranged as to cover the area of the joint effectively. Reference should be made to Exhibit B of § 7.232 (relating to exhibitssafety diagrams).
(iv) The minimum number of bolts for a belt width of 14 inches shall be not less than 23 and for belt widths of 16 inches, the number of bolts shall be not less than 27.
(5) Pulleys. Drive pulleys and idler or boot pulleys shall have a diameter of not less than 20 inches.
(d) Pulley protection. The machine shall be so designed and constructed as to catch and hold the driving pulley in the event of shaft failure.
§ 7.232. Exhibitssafety diagrams.
The following diagrams identified as Exhibits AC show safety standards for manlifts:
EXHIBIT A
EXHIBIT B
![]()
EXHIBIT C
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.231 (relating to machines).
§ 7.233. Speed.
No manlift designed for a speed in excess of 80 feet per minute shall be installed.
§ 7.234. Steps.
(a) Steps or platforms shall be not less than 12 inches nor more than 14 inches deep, measured from the belt to the edge of the step or platform.
(b) The width of a step or platform shall be not less than the width of the belt to which it is attached.
(c) The distance between steps shall be equally spaced and not less than nine feet, measured from the upper surface of one step to the upper surface of the step above it.
(d) The surface of a step shall approximately make a horizontal position with the up and down-run of the belt.
(e) The upper or working surfaces of steps shall be of a material having inherent nonslip characteristics or be covered completely by a securely fastened nonslip tread.
(f) When subjected to a load of 400 pounds applied at the approximate center of the step, step frames or supports and their guides shall be of adequate strength to prevent any of the following:
(1) The disengagement of any step roller.
(2) Any appreciable misalignment.
(3) Any visible deformation of a step or its support.
(g) No step shall be provided unless there is a corresponding handhold above or below it meeting the requirements of § 7.235 (relating to handholds). If a step is removed permanently for repairs, the handholds immediately above and below it shall be removed before the lift is again placed in service.
§ 7.235. Handholds.
(a) Handholds attached to a belt shall be provided and so installed that they are not less than four feet nor more than 4 feet 8 inches, above the step tread, and shall be so located as to be available on both the up and down-run of the belt.
(b) The grab surface of handholds shall be not less than 4 1/2 inches in width. Fastenings shall not come within 1 inch of the edge of the belt.
(c) Handholds shall be capable of withstanding without damage a load of 300 pounds applied parallel to the run of the belt.
(d) No handhold shall be provided without a corresponding step. If a handhold is removed permanently or temporarily, the corresponding step and handhold for the opposite direction of travel shall also be removed before the lift is placed in service.
(e) Handholds shall be of the closed type.
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.234 (relating to steps).
§ 7.236. Stops.
(a) Up limit stop. Two separate automatic stop devices shall be provided to cut off the power and supply the brake when a loaded step passes the upper terminal landing, in accordance with the following:
(1) One automatic stop device shall consist of a switch mechanically operated by the belt or step roller. The other shall consist of one of the following:
(i) A roller switch placed above and out of line with the first limit switch.
(ii) A photocell and light source (electric eye).
(iii) A switch actuated by a lever, rod or plate, the latter placed above the head pulley so as to just clear a passing step.
(2) After the manlift is stopped it shall be necessary to reset the automatic stop manually. The device shall be so located at the top landing that a person resetting it shall have a clear view of both the up and down-runs of the manlift. It shall not be possible to reset the device from any step or platform.
(3) The stopping device shall function so that the manlift is stopped before the loaded step has reached a point 24 inches above the top terminal landing.
(4) Electrical requirements are as follows:
(i) When switches open the main motor circuit directly they shall be of the multiple type.
(ii) When photoelectric devices are used they shall be so designed and installed that the failure of the light sources, light sensitive element, or of any other vacuum tubes employed in the circuit will result in shutting off the power to the driving motor.
(iii) Unless of the oil-immersed type, controller contacts carrying the main motor current shall be copper to carbon, except when the circuit is broken at two or more points simultaneously.
(iv) Electric manlifts, operated by polyphases alternating current motors, shall be provided with relays of the potential type or other approved devices, which prevent starting the motor if the phase rotation is in the wrong direction, or if there is a failure in any phase.
(b) Down limit stop. An automatic stop device shall be provided to cut off the power and apply the brake if a loaded step passes the bottom terminal landing.
(c) Emergency stop. An emergency stop means shall be provided, in accordance with the following:
(1) The stop means shall be within easy reach of the ascending and descending runs of the belt.
(2) The stop means shall be so connected with the control lever or operating mechanism that it cuts off the power and applies the brake when pulled in the direction of travel.
(3) The stop may consist of a cotton rope with a wire center, manila or sisal rope, or may be made of suitable lengths of metallic pipe or tubing. If rope is used, it shall be not less than 3/8 inch in diameter. Wire rope, unless marlin-covered, shall not be used.
(4) The emergency stop may be used for normal starting and stopping where the manlift does not run continuously.
§ 7.237. Safety.
All parts of the machine shall have a factor of safety of six based on a load of 200 pounds on each horizontal step on the up and down-runs. Any stresses set up during acceleration or stopping are presumed to be taken care of in such factor of safety.
§ 7.238. Signs required.
(a) Instruction signs. Signs of conspicuous and easily read style giving instructions for the use of the manlift shall be posted at each landing or stenciled on the belt. Such signs shall be of letters not less than one inch in height and of a color having high contrast with the surface on which it is stenciled or painted, such as white or yellow on black or black on white or gray. The instruction shall read approximately as follows:
Face the belt. Use the handhold. To stoppull rope. (b) Top floor warning. At the top floor an illuminated sign shall be displayed, and shall conform to the following:
(1) It shall bear the words, Top floorget off.
(2) Such signs shall be in block letters not less than 2 inches in height.
(3) The sign shall be located within easy view of an ascending passenger and not more than 2 feet above the top terminal landing.
(4) As an alternate for such sign, a red light of not less than a 40-watt rating may be provided immediately below the upper terminal landing and so located as to shine in the face of a passenger.
(c) Visitor warning. A conspicuous sign having the legend: Employes onlyvisitors keep off, shall be displayed at each landing. Such sign shall be of block letters not less than 2 inches in height and of a color offering high contrast with the background color.
§ 7.239. Carriage of materials and tools.
(a) No freight or packaged goods shall be carried on a manlift.
(b) No pipe, lumber or other construction material shall be carried on a manlift.
(c) No tools, except those which fit entirely within a pocket in usual working clothes, shall be carried on a manlift, except as provided in subsection (d).
(d) Tools may be carried in a canvas bag not larger than 11 by 13 inches and provided with carrying loops or handles. Such bag shall be provided with a leather bottom, and not provided with shoulder straps, but shall be carried in the hands of passengers while riding the manlift.
§ 7.240. Acceptance tests.
(a) Up capacity. A manlift with 200 pounds on each horizontal step of the up-run shall show no appreciable slip of the belt when standing or running at rated speed.
(b) Down capacity. A manlift with 200 pounds on each horizontal step of the down-run shall show no appreciable slip of the belt when standing or running at rated speed. The brake shall stop and hold the belt with test load.
(c) Loaded step deflection. Each step shall be subject to a 400-pound proof load applied to the center of the step with the machine stationary. The guides shall not be displaced and there shall be no visible deformation or misalignment of the step or its support during the test.
(d) Strength of handhold. Each handhold shall support a load of 300 pounds without appreciable deformation or injury to its fastenings. Such test shall be made with the machine stationary.
(e) Final limit stop. The up final limit shall be tested by placing a weight of 100 pounds on the approximate center of the step or platform and running the machine in the up direction until the lift is stopped by the limit stop.
(f) Emergency stop. The machine shall be stopped on both the up and down-run by means of the emergency stop.
(g) Speed. Speed shall be taken and checked against specified (rated) speed. It shall not exceed the rated speed by more than 10% when running empty.
Subchapter H. STAIRWAY INCLINED LIFTS IN BUILDINGS OTHER
THAN PRIVATE RESIDENCES
Sec.
7.251. General.
7.252. Capacity, load and speed.
7.253. Carriages.
7.254. Free passageway on stairway.
7.255. Power unit.
7.256. Operating device.
7.257. Winding drums, sheaves and rope grooves.
7.258. Connecting means.
7.259. Terminal stopping devices.
7.260. Machine brake and driving machine.
7.261. Electric wiring.§ 7.251. General.
The installation of stairway inclined lifts in buildings other than private residences is prohibited, except when all of the following are complied with, as well as the specifications set forth in the remainder of this Subchapter:
(1) The lift shall not be installed on stairway locations which interfere with or obstruct full legal egress from the buildings, as required by Chapter 37 of this Title (relating to protection from fire and panic).
(2) No lift shall be installed or operated having a greater incline than 38 degrees from the horizontal.
(3) Each installation is subject to the requirements of § § 7.117.17 of this Title (relating to administration) and § 7.31 of this Title (relating to submission and approval of plans). Regular inspections shall be made at least every 12 months.
(4) In no case shall such lift provide transportation between more than two consecutive floors. Travel shall be limited to 35 feet, as measured on the incline.
§ 7.252. Capacity, load and speed.
(a) The capacity of stairway inclined lifts in buildings other than private residences shall not exceed two persons.
(b) The rated load shall be not less than 250 pounds for a single seat lift and not less than 400 pounds for a lift having two seats.
(c) The rated speed measured along the incline shall not exceed 50 feet per minute.
§ 7.253. Carriages.
(a) Specifications. The carriage or chair shall have a foot platform with a seat or seats and an outer arm rest and a back so arranged as to provide safe support for passengers, provided they are of the self-locking type. Swivel-type seats are permitted.
(b) Truck and guides. The carriage shall be securely anchored to a truck which supports it. The truck shall be retained in a track or guide rail assembly. Supporting guide rails shall be securely anchored to the stairs or sidewall.
(c) Factor of safety. The factor of safety used in the design of the carriage, truck, guide rails, sprockets and sheaves shall be not less than five, based on the rated load.
(d) Safety devices. The carriage shall be provided with a safety of the instantaneous type operating on failure or slackening of the hoisting rope or chain. A slack-rope or chain switch shall be provided which removes power from the motor and brake if the hoisting rope or chain fails or slackens. An exception exists where self-locking drives utilizing a lead screw or other positive gearing will stop and hold the carriage with rated load within less than four inches of down travel after power is removed.
§ 7.254. Free passageway on stairway.
Equipment shall be so constructed as to permit a free passageway width of not less than 32 inches throughout the length of the stairway. If the seat and platform fold automatically when not in use, this clearance may be measured from the folded position.
§ 7.255. Power unit.
The power unit may be mounted on the carriage or placed at a remote location. If remotely located, all intervening sheaves or sprockets shall be placed so that the rope or chain travels in proper alignment. All sheaves shall be enclosed or guarded.
§ 7.256. Operating device.
Operating shall be by continuous-pressure, key-operated switches, at the terminal landings only. Switches shall be so arranged that they do not remain in the run position unless forcibly held in such position, and automatically return to the off position and the key ejected from the switch if released. Keys shall be placed only in the hands of designated responsible persons and not be indiscriminately distributed, so that operation of the device may be closely supervised by a competent person at a terminal landing only. Key switches shall be so located as to permit an unobstructed view of the entire length of travel of the lift.
§ 7.257. Winding drums, sheaves and rope grooves.
Winding drums and sheaves shall be composed of cast iron or steel. The diameter of drums or sheaves shall be not less than 30 times the diameter of the wire hoist-ropes and shall have machined rope-grooves. An exception exists when eight by 19 elevator wire rope or seven by 19 aircraft cable is used as a connecting means between the carriage and the driving machine, the diameter of drums and sheaves may be reduced to 21 times the diameter of the rope or cable.
Source The provisions of this § 7.257 amended September 23, 1977, 7 Pa.B. 2696. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (8127).
§ 7.258. Connecting means.
(a) When the carriage is connected to the driving machine by a rope, cable or chain, any one of the following connecting means may be used:
(1) Steel or iron elevator wire rope.
(2) Steel aircraft cable.
(3) Roller chain.
(b) The diameter of ropes or cables shall be not less than the following:
(1) 1/4 inch for elevator wire rope.
(2) 1/8 inch for aircraft cable.
(c) The connecting means shall have a factor of safety of not less than seven, based on the tension in the rope, cable, or chain when raising the carriage and its rated load. In no case shall the rated breaking strength of the rope, cable, or chain be less than 1,800 pounds.
§ 7.259. Terminal stopping devices.
Upper and lower normal terminal stopping switches operated by the carriage shall be provided and set to stop it at the normal top and bottom terminals of travel. A final terminal stopping switch, operated by the carriage, shall be provided and set to stop it should overtravel of the normal top terminal occur. The final terminal stopping device shall prevent movement of the carriage in both directions of travel. The normal and final terminal stopping devices shall not control the same switches on the controller unless two or more independent switches are provided, two of which shall be closed to complete the motor and brake circuits in each direction of travel.
§ 7.260. Machine brake and driving machine.
(a) A machine brake of the electrically-released, spring-applied type shall be provided. Self-locking drives utilizing a lead-screw or other positive gearing which will stop and hold the carriage with rated load within four inches of down travel after power is removed are excepted.
(b) The driving machine shall be directly connected to the motor, or may be connected to the motor by multiple V-belts, or by a multiple-link, belt-type chain. Where a chain-drive or belt-drive machine is used, a broken-chain or broken-belt device shall be provided to remove power from the motor and brake if the chain or belt fails or slackens.
§ 7.261. Electric wiring.
Electric wiring shall comply with Chapter 39, Subchapter B (relating to electric safety).
Subchapter I. FREIGHT ELEVATORS
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS Sec.
7.271. Applicability.
7.272. Shaftway construction.
7.273. Shaftway equipment.
7.274. Shaftway clearances.
7.275. Landing doors.
7.276. Latches.
7.277. Locking devices.
7.278. Landing gates.
7.279. Machinery.
7.280. Cables.
7.281. Elevator cars.
7.282. Speed and capacity.
7.283. Safety requirements.
7.284. Motive power.
7.285. Control apparatus.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
7.291. General.
7.292. Electric freight elevators.
7.293. Automatic and dual control freight elevators.
7.294. Double-button control freight elevators.
7.295. Hydraulic freight elevators.
7.296. Belted and silent chain drive elevators.
7.297. Hand elevators.
7.298. Gravity elevators.
7.299. Automobile elevators.
7.300. Electric or oil-electric platform elevators.
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
§ 7.271. Applicability.
This Subchapter applies to all types of freight elevators.
Cross References The provisions of this § 7.273 amended through September 17, 1976, 6 Pa.B. 2277. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (8136) and (17302).
Cross References The provisions of this § 7.274 amended through December 21, 1967.
Cross References The provisions of this § 7.275 amended through March 26, 1969.
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.189 (relating to hoistway doors); 34 Pa. Code § 7.291 (relating to general); 34 Pa. Code § 7.295 (relating to hydraulic freight elevators); 34 Pa. Code § 7.297 (relating to hand elevators); and 34 Pa. Code § 7.298 (relating to gravity elevators).
§ 7.276. Latches.
Latches shall be provided on the shaftway side of all landing doors for power-driven freight elevators, except automatic conrol elevators, which effectively lock the doors when they are in a closed position. This requirement does not apply when the landing doors are on the outside of the shaftway and the entrance is further protected by a landing gate. Such latches shall operate to prevent the opening of the doors from the landing side, except when the car is at the landing.
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.291 (relating to general); 34 Pa. Code § 7.295 (relating to hydraulic freight elevators); 34 Pa. Code § 7.297 (relating to hand elevators); and 34 Pa. Code § 7.298 (relating to gravity elevators).
§ 7.277. Locking devices.
(a) When the landing doors of power-driven freight elevators, except automatic control elevators, are of the manually operating type, an approved automatic locking device shall be placed on, or attached to, such doors. This requirement does not apply when the landing doors are on the outside of the shaftway and the entrance is further protected by a landing gate. The locking device shall prevent the normal operation of the car while the door on the landing at which the car may be standing is open or unsecured. Such locking device shall not be affected by ordinary deviation from true alignment of either the car or landing doors and shall not project into the shaftway to such an extent as to create a hazard.
(b) Each locking device installed shall be stamped or otherwise have irremovably placed on such device a type or model number which corresponds to the type or model number listed with the Department when such device was approved. No change shall be made in the design of approved locking devices unless the Board is notified and has acquiesced in such change. No locking device of any kind other than approved-type interlocks is permitted on any hoistway door.
(c) When springs are used in locking devices to create and maintain a condition of safety, they shall be of such strength as to insure against a hazardous condition through breakage or misplacement.
(d) The installation of emergency releases on freight elevators is prohibited.
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.111 (relating to shaftway construction); 34 Pa. Code § 7.189 (relating to hoistway doors); 34 Pa. Code § 7.275 (relating to landing doors); 34 Pa. Code § 7.291 (relating to general); 34 Pa. Code § 7.295 (relating to hydraulic freight elevators); 34 Pa. Code § 7.297 (relating to hand elevators); and 34 Pa. Code § 7.298 (relating to gravity elevators).
§ 7.279. Machinery.
(a) Overhead machinery for freight elevators in new installations shall be securely fastened or cleated to its supports to prevent movement. Cleats are not required where the ropes lead perpendicularly from both sides of the driving shaft. Overhead bearings, except for hand elevators, shall be placed on the tops of the beams or structural parts to which they may be secured, except that idler sheaves may be placed below the beams, provided the parts of the bearings in tension are of steel or wrought iron. Such supports shall possess a strength as specified in § 7.272 (relating to shaftway construction). When necessary in existing installations, the Department may require that overhead machinery be relocated or so changed as to conform to safe practices.
(b) No new machinery, except hydraulic plunger elevators, may be located directly under an elevator shaftway. Existing machinery may remain in place if there is sufficient pit depth, buffer support, and no other hazards involved, and subject to approval by the Board.
(c) Set screw fastenings shall not be used in lieu of keys in the construction or installation of hoisting and car safety mechanisms in existing installations. Set screws or pins shall not be used in lieu of keys in the construction of new hoisting and car safety mechanisms, except when the device has been approved by the Department.
(d) The operation of any elevator by friction gearing or clutch mechanism is prohibited where such mechanisms form the primary means for the transmission of the power required to operate the elevator at normal speed.
Cross References The provisions of this § 7.280 amended through June 28, 1967.
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.291 (relating to general) and 34 Pa. Code § 7.295 (relating to hydraulic freight elevators); and 34 Pa. Code § 7.298 (relating to gravity elevators).
§ 7.282. Speed and capacity.
Belted and chain-driven freight elevators hereafter installed shall not have a rated speed of more than 75 feet per minute. When the car speed of electric and hydraulic freight elevators is in excess of 125 feet per minute, such installations shall be made to conform to the requirements of this chapter for passenger elevators, except as to lifting capacity and shaftway doors.
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.285 (relating to control apparatus); 34 Pa. Code § 7.291 (relating to general); 34 Pa. Code § 7.295 (relating to hydraulic freight elevators); and 34 Pa. Code § 7.296 (relating to belted and silent chain drive elevators).
§ 7.284. Motive power.
The motive power of all freight elevators shall be one of the following:
(1) Direct-connected electric (drum or traction).
(2) Hydraulic plunger.
(3) Horizontal or vertical cylinder.
(4) Single belted.
(5) Silent chain.
(6) Hand.
(7) Gravity.
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.283 (relating to safety requirements); 34 Pa. Code § 7.291 (relating to general); and 34 Pa. Code § 7.295 (relating to hydraulic freight elevators).
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
§ 7.291. General.
This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.283 (relating to safety requirements); 34 Pa. Code § 7.291 (relating to general); and 34 Pa Code § 7.296 (relating to belted and silent chain drive elevators).
§ 7.293. Automatic and dual control freight elevators.
(a) Automatic control freight elevators. Automatic control freight elevators shall not be constructed and installed unless a special permit has been obtained from the Department. Their use shall at all times be subject to special regulations applied to them for the protection of the public and employes. Such elevators are subject to the provisions covering automatic control passenger elevators, as set forth in § 7.73 (relating to automatic control passenger elevators), except as to capacity or side exits. Shaftway gates or doors may be of the same type as permitted for freight elevators of car switch control.
(b) Dual control freight elevators. Dual control freight elevators are subject to the provisions covering dual control passenger elevators, as set forth in § 7.74 (relating to dual control passenger elevators), except that capacity is included in the list of exemptions, and shaftway gates or doors may be of the same type as permitted for freight elevators of car switch control.
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.291 (relating to general).
§ 7.295. Hydraulic freight elevators.
Plunger and cylinder freight elevators, when possible, shall be constructed, installed, and operated in accordance with the requirements of § § 7.2717.285 and 7.76, except that the requirement governing capacity does not apply to freight elevators coming under this subchapter.
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.291 (relating to general).
§ 7.299. Automobile elevators.
(a) New freight elevators for automobile service shall have a car platform of sufficient strength to support a load equal to 70% of the live load when concentrated equally at any two points, 4 feet, 8 1/2 inches apart on a line parallel with the entrance sill to the car. Existing automobile elevators shall comply with the provisions of this chapter for existing freight elevators.
(b) Construction of automobile elevators of the multiple or four point suspension type is prohibited.
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.291 (relating to general).
Subchapter J. ESCALATORS
Sec.
7.321. Construction.
7.322. Drive.
7.323. Capacity.
7.324. Safety equipment.
7.325. Tests.
7.326. Prohibitionwheeled vehicles.§ 7.321. Construction.
(a) Angle of inclination. The angle of inclination of new escalators shall not exceed 30° from the horizontal. The Department may, in its discretion, require that the angle of inclination of existing escalators be lessened if such change is considered necessary for the safety of the public or employes.
(b) Width. The width of all new escalators shall be measured between balustrading at a vertical height of 24 inches above the nose line of treads. No escalator shall have a width less than 22 inches or more than 29 inches unless a horizontal tread formation is utilized, in which case the width shall not be greater than 48 inches.
(c) Enclosures. Each new escalator shall be enclosed on each side from the handrail to the escalator treads. These enclosures shall, on the escalator side, be smooth without depressed or raised paneling or moulding. There shall be no jogs or abrupt changes in width between the enclosing sides. If a change in width is necessary, it shall not be more than 8.0% of the greatest width and the enclosing sides shall then be moulded to such change at an angle not greater than 15 degrees from the line of escalator travel. The use of glass panels in connection with balustrading is prohibited except when special, approved types of glass are used.
(d) Strength of truss or girder. The strength of escalator trusses or girders shall conform to the following:
(1) Generally. Escalator trusses and all supporting structure, including tracks, shall conform to the AISC Specification for design, fabrication and erection of structural steel for buildings, 1969.
(2) New installations. The escalator truss or girder shall be of sufficient strength to safely retain the escalator treads in their runs, with the maximum passenger load, should the tread chain break. Escalator trusses or girders shall be designed and constructed with a factor of safety of at least five, based on the static loads.
(3) Existing installations. Existing escalators shall be carefully examined under load. The truss or girder shall be able to carry the weight of the treads with the maximum passenger load should the tread chain break.
(e) Track arrangement. On new installations the track for guiding an escalator tread shall be so constructed as to prevent the displacement of the upper line of treads if the tread chain breaks.
(f) Treads and landings. Escalator treads and landings shall be constructed of material which affords a secure foothold such as wood or material used for safety treads. If the landing is of concrete it shall have edge insertions of metal, wood, or other antislip material.
(g) Handrails. New escalators shall be equipped on both sides with moving handrails operating at the speed of the escalator and in the same direction of travel. Existing handrails shall conform to the requirements for new installations if, in the judgment of the Department, such changes are practicable and necessary.
(h) Reconstruction. When an existing escalator is removed or reerected in a new location, such reconstruction shall be in conformity with the requirements for new installations.
Source The provisions of this § 7.321 amended September 23, 1977, 7 Pa.B. 2696. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (13395) to (13396).
§ 7.322. Drive.
(a) Motive power arrangementall installations. Each escalator shall preferably be driven by an independent electric motor but under no circumstances shall more than two escalators be driven by one motor. The latter arrangement is permissible only when the two are placed so closely together as to be practically one unit.
(b) Chains. The strength of chain drives shall conform to the following:
(1) New installations. Chains used for driving escalator treads shall have a factor of safety of not less than ten when operating with the full capacity at maximum speed, except when the chains are composed of cast steel links, which shall be thoroughly annealed, in which case the factor of safety shall be not less than 20.
(2) Existing installations. Chains used for driving escalator treads shall be of sufficient strength to carry the load without breakage or misplacement. When such chains are in need of renewal, the new chains shall possess a safety factor of not less than ten when the escalator is operating with full capacity at maximum speed.
§ 7.323. Capacity.
The maximum capacity of newly installed escalators shall be determined as follows:
(1) For escalators 24 inches or less in width, the maximum load shall equal 110 times the horizontally projected length of exposed treads in feet.
The provisions of this § 7.324 amended through September 23, 1977, 7 Pa.B. 2696. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (15210) to (15211).
Cross References The provisions of this § 7.325 amended through September 23, 1977, 7 Pa.B. 2696. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (15211).
§ 7.326. Prohibitionwheeled vehicles.
Wheeled vehicles are not permitted on escalators.
Subchapter K. DUMBWAITERS
Sec.
7.341. Applicability.
7.342. Shaftway construction.
7.343. Landing doors and gates.
7.344. Machines and bearings.
7.345. Cars.
7.346. Cables.
7.347. Safety requirements.§ 7.341. Applicability.
(a) New installations. This subchapter applies to all dumbwaiters except handpower dumbwaiters, the car floor of which is less than three square feet in area with a travel not over 12 feet and a rated capacity of not over 75 pounds.
(b) Existing installations. This subchapter applies to all dumbwaiters except handpower dumbwaiters, the car floor of which is less than three square feet in area.
Source The provisions of this § 7.342 amended September 23, 1977, 7 Pa.B. 2696. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (8165).
§ 7.343. Landing doors and gates.
(a) All installations. Shaftway entrances shall be provided with approved gates or doors, which may be of the vertical-sliding or rolling semiautomatic type or of the swinging hinged type. When shaftways are required to be of fire-resistive construction, fire doors shall be provided at all landings. Landing doors and gates shall be equipped with an effective lock or latch. The openings at shaftway entrances shall in no instance be greater than the width and height of the car. Larger openings are permitted, if they are limited to the car size by bolted transoms or side panels.
(b) New installations. The shaftway landing doors of power-driven dumbwaiters shall be provided with a locking device which prevents the normal operation of the car so long as any door or doors are in an opened position. Such locking device shall also lock the door or doors on the shaftway side while the car is not at the landing.
(c) Existing installations. The shaftway landing doors of power-driven dumbwaiters, except of the automatic control type, shall be self-closing.
§ 7.344. Machines and bearings.
In all new installations, all overhead machinery for dumbwaiters shall be securely fastened to its supports. Overhead bearings, except for handpower dumbwaiters, shall be placed on the tops of the beams or structural parts to which they are secured, except that idler sheaves may be placed below the beams, provided the parts of the bearings in tension are made of steel or wrought iron. When the dumbwaiter machinery is overhead, a substantial fireproof working platform or metal grating capable of sustaining a live load of at least 50 pounds to the square foot, shall be securely fastened underneath the machine. When machines are installed in the pit they shall be accessible through a door opening at the machine level, and not through any landing door. A substantial platform shall be provided over all such machinery. In such instances, controllers shall not be located in the shaftway.
§ 7.345. Cars.
(a) The cars of newly installed dumbwaiters shall be of substantial construction. The horizontal cross sectional area shall not exceed 9 square feet and the compartment height shall not exceed 4 feet. The carrying capacity of dumbwaiter cars shall not exceed 500 pounds. All cars of dimensions and carrying capacities greater than those specified will be considered as freight elevators and shall comply with freight requirements in every respect. The stated dimensions and capacity also apply to existing installations, except that if local conditions necessitate modification, the Department may, upon request, grant relief according to the existing exigencies.
(b) New dumbwaiter cars shall be enclosed to the full height on all sides not used for loading or unloading. When considered necessary by the Department, the cars of existing dumbwaiters shall also be enclosed to the full height under beam, except on the sides used for loading and unloading.
(c) No person shall be permitted to ride upon any dumbwaiter.
§ 7.346. Cables.
(a) Power-driven dumbwaiters shall be provided with one or more iron or steel hoisting cables, equivalent tapes, or chains. If cables are exposed to corrosion, they shall be covered with marline or other equivalent protective covering.
(b) The loads on hoisting cables shall be determined by the factors of safety as given in the following curve, in accordance with the rated speed of the car:
(c) The hoisting and counterweight cables of all power-driven dumbwaiters shall not be lengthened or repaired by splicing.
(d) The drum ends of new hoisting and counterweight cables shall be secured by clamps placed on the inside of the drums.
(e) Cables secured to winding drums shall have not less than one complete wrap of the cable around the winding drum when the car or counterweight has reached the extreme limit of its travel.
§ 7.347. Safety requirements.
(a) No single-belted or chain-driven dumbwaiter shall have a car speed in excess of 50 feet per minute. No new power-driven dumbwaiter shall be operated by hand rope control.
(b) New power-driven dumbwaiter machines of the winding drum type shall be equipped with an automatic terminal stop which automatically cuts off the source of power and applies the brake. Limit switches may be used in lieu of machine automatics.
(c) Dependable brakes shall be provided for all dumbwaiters.
(d) A slack cable device shall be provided on newly installed dumbwaiters of the winding drum type above a car travel of 30 feet and a capacity of 100 pounds. Such device shall automatically stop the machine and apply the brake in the event of broken or slack hoisting cables.
(e) The removal and reerection of any dumbwaiter in a new location shall be in conformity with the requirements for new installations.
(f) When the space below the hoistway of new installations is used for a passageway or is occupied by persons, or if unoccupied is not secured against unauthorized access, cars and counterweights shall be provided with safeties which operate on the breaking of the suspension means.
(g) Pushbuttons shall not be permitted to control the operation of any dumbwaiter in school buildings, sanitariums for the weak-minded, and similar classes of buildings if there is danger of abuse of the purpose of such buttons, unless the pushbuttons may be made inaccessible to the occupants or are key operated. A decision on this point will be made at the time of the approval of the plans for the dumbwaiters.
Subchapter L. HOISTS
MATERIAL HOISTS Sec.
7.361. General requirements.
7.362. Operating rules.
7.363. Hoistway entrances.
7.364. Hoist towers.
7.365. Safety.
PERSONNEL HOISTS
7.371. Hoist towers.
7.372. Doors.
7.373. Cars.
7.374. Ropes.
7.375. Safety.
7.376. Noninclosed towers.
7.377. Removal of ropes.
7.378. Permanent elevators.
7.379. Drum hoists.
7.380. Use of freight elevators as hoists.
7.381. Use of passenger elevators as hoists.
7.382. Change of certificate.
7.383. Signal system.
7.384. Special personnel hoists used in chimney construction.
MATERIAL HOISTS
§ 7.361. General requirements.
(a) The employer shall comply with the manufacturers specifications and limitations applicable to the operation of all hoists and elevators. If manufacturers specifications are not available, the limitations assigned to the equipment shall be based on the determination of an approved Certified State Commissioned Inspector competent in the field.
(b) Rated load capacities, recommended operating speeds, and special hazard warnings or instructions shall be posted on cars and platforms.
(c) Wire rope shall be removed from service when any of the following conditions exists:
(1) In hoisting ropes, six randomly distributed broken wires in one rope lay or three broken wires in one strand in one rope lay.
(2) Abrasion, scrubbing, flattening, or peening, causing loss of more than 1/3 of the original diameter of the outside wires.
(3) Evidence of any heat damage resulting from a torch or any damage caused by contact with electrical wires.
(4) Reduction from nominal diameter of more than 3/64 inch for diameters up to and including 3/4 inch; 1/16 inch for diamerers 7/8 to 1 1/8 inches; and 3/32 inch for diameters 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 inches.
(d) Hoisting ropes shall be installed in accordance with the wire rope manufacturers recommendations.
(e) The installation of live booms on hoists is prohibited.
(f) The use of endless belt-type man lifts on construction shall be prohibited.
§ 7.362. Operating rules.
(a) Operating rules shall be established and posted at the operators station of the hoist. Such rules shall include signal system and allowable line speed for various loads. Rules and notices shall be posted on the car frame or cross-head in a conspicuous location, including the statement No Riders Allowed.
(b) No person shall be allowed to ride on material hoists except for the purposes of inspection and maintenance.
§ 7.363. Hoistway entrances.
(a) All entrances of the hoistways shall be protected by substantial gates or bars which shall guard the full width of the landing entrance.
(b) All hoistway entrance bars and gates shall be painted with diagonal contrasting colors, such as black and yellow stripes. Bars shall be not less than 2 by 4 inch wooden bars or the equivalent, located 2 feet from the hoistway line. Bars shall be located not less than 36 inches nor more than 42 inches above the floor.
(c) Gates or bars protecting the entrances to hoistway shall be equipped with a latching device. Where landing platforms connect the shaftway to the building such platforms shall be constructed of materials of ascertained soundness and capability to safely sustain the maximum load to be imposed on them and they shall be provided with standard guard rails and toe boards. If the floors or platforms are covered with metal they shall have a nonslip surface. Where any platform entrance to a shaftway, and the top of the shaftway is exposed to falling objects, a substantially large and strong overhead catch platform shall be provided. It is understood that the floor of each landing shall be considered the roof of the platform immediately below. The loading platform is to be kept free and clear of building material and debris at all times.
(d) Overhead protective covering of two-inch planking, 3 1/4 inch plywood, or other solid material of equivalent strength, shall be provided on the top of every material hoist cage or platform.
(e) The operators station of a hoisting machine shall be provided with overhead protection equivalent to tight planking not less than 2 inches thick. The support for the overhead protection shall be of equal strength.
§ 7.364. Hoist towers.
(a) Hoist towers may be used with or without an enclosure on all sides. However, whichever alternative is chosen, the following applicable conditions shall be met.
(b) When a hoist tower is enclosed, it shall be enclosed on all sides for its entire height with a screen enclosure of 1/2-inch mesh, No. 18 U.S. gauge wire or equivalent, except for landing access.
(c) When a hoist tower is not enclosed, the hoist platform or car shall be totally enclosed, that is, caged, on all sides for the full height between the floor and the overhead protective covering with 1/2-inch mesh of No. 14 U.S. gauge wire or equivalent. The hoist platform enclosure shall include the required gates for loading and unloading. A 6-foot high enclosure shall be provided on the unused side of the hoist tower at ground level.
§ 7.365. Safety.
(a) Approved car safety devices shall be installed to function in case of wire rope failure. Safety devices shall be tested by certified inspector at each and every erection.
(b) All material hoist towers shall be designed by a licensed professional engineer.
(c) All material hoists shall conform to the requirements of ANSI A10.5-1969, Safety Requirements for Material Hoists.
PERSONNEL HOISTS
§ 7.371. Hoist towers.
(a) Hoist towers outside the structure shall be enclosed for the full height on the side or sides used for entrance and exit to the structure. At the lowest landing, the enclosure on the sides not used for exit or entrance to the structure shall be enclosed to a height of at least 10 feet. Other sides of the tower adjacent to floors or scaffold platforms shall be enclosed to a height of 10 feet above the level of such floors or scaffolds.
(b) For towers located outside a building, the enclosures, except those at the lowest landing, may be omitted on the sides where there is no floor or scaffold adjacent to the hoistway. Enclosures on the entrance and exit side of the hoistway shall be full height. Other enclosures, where required, shall be not less than 10 feet high.
(c) Towers inside of structures shall be enclosed on all four sides throughout the full height.
(d) Towers shall be anchored to the structure at intervals not exceeding 25 feet. In addition to tie-ins, a series of guys shall be installed. Where tie-ins are not practical the tower shall be anchored by means of guys made of wire rope at least 1/2 inch in diameter, securely fastened to anchorages to ensure stability.
§ 7.372. Doors
Hoistway doors or gates shall be not less than 6 feet 6 inches high and shall be provided with mechanical locks which cannot be operated from the landing side, and shall be accessible only to persons on the car. Inside face of hoistway doors to be within 4 inches of face of seal line.
§ 7.373. Cars.
(a) Cars shall be permanently enclosed on all sides and the top, except sides used for entrance and exit, which have car gates or doors. Where landing platforms connect the shaftway to the building such platforms shall be constructed of material of ascertained soundness and capability to safely sustain the maximum load to be imposed on them and they shall be provided with standard guard rails and toe boards. If the floors or platforms are covered with metal they shall have a nonslip surface. Where any platform entrance to a shaftway, and the top of the shaftway is exposed to falling objects, a substantially large and strong overhead catch platform shall be provided. It is understood that the floor of each landing shall be considered the roof of the platform immediately below. The loading platform is to be kept free and clear of building material and debris at all times.
(b) A door or gate shall be provided at each entrance on the car which shall protect the full width and height of the car entrance opening.
(c) Overhead protective covering of two-inch planking, 3/4-inch plywood or other solid material of equivalent strength shall be provided on the top of every personnel hoist.
(d) Car doors or gates shall be provided with electric contacts which do not allow movement of the hoist when door or gate is open.
(e) Approved car safeties shall be capable of stopping and holding the car and rated load when traveling at governor tripping speed.
(f) Cars shall be provided with a capacity and data plate secured in a conspicuous place on the car of crosshead.
(g) Internal combustion engines shall not be permitted for direct drive.
(h) Normal and final terminal stopping devices shall be provided.
(i) An emergency stop switch shall be provided in the car and marked Stop.
§ 7.374. Ropes.
(a) The minimum number of hoisting ropes used shall be three for traction hoists and two for drum-type hoists.
(b) The minimum diameter of hoisting and counterweight wire ropes shall be 1/2-inch.
(c) Minimum factors of safety for suspension shall conform with the following
WIRE ROPES
Rope speed
in feet per
minute:Minimum
factor of
safety50 7.60 75 7.75 100 7.95 125 8.10 150 8.25 175 8.40 200 8.60 225 8.75 250 8.90 300 9.20 350 9.50 400 9.75 450 10.00 500 10.25 550 10.45 600 10.70 § 7.375. Safety.
(a) Following assembly and erection of hoists, and before being put in service, an inspection and test of all functions and safety devices shall be made under the supervision of a Certified Commissioned Inspector. A similar inspection and full load test is required following major alteration of an existing installation. All hoists shall be inspected and tested at not more than 3-month intervals or each time erected. Records shall be maintained and kept on file for the duration of the job.
(b) All personnel elevators used by employes shall be constructed of materials and components which meet the specifications for materials, construction, safety devices, assembly, and structural integrity as stated in the American National Standard A104-1972, Safety Requirements for Personnel Hoists and all subsequent additions as heretofore amended from time to time by the Industrial Board.
(c) Personnel hoists used in bridge tower construction shall be approved by a registered professional engineer and erected under the supervision of a qualified engineer competent in this field.
Source The provision of this § 7.375 amended through August 17, 1973, 3 Pa.B 1722.
§ 7.376. Nonenclosed towers.
(a) When a hoist tower is not enclosed, the hoist platform or car shall be totally enclosed, that is, caged, on all sides for the full height between the floor and the overhead protective covering with 3/4-inch mesh of No. 14 U.S. gauge wire or equivalent. The hoist platform enclosure shall include the required gate for loading and unloading.
(b) These hoists shall be inspected and maintained on a weekly basis. Whenever the hoisting equipment is exposed to winds exceeding 35 miles per hour it shall be inspected and put in operable condition before reuse.
§ 7.377. Removal of ropes.
Wire rope shall be taken out of service when any of the following conditions exist:
(1) In running ropes, six randomly distributed broken wires in one lay or three broken wires in one strand in one lay.
(2) Wear of 1/3 original diameter of outside individual wires. Kinking, curshing, bird caging or any other damage resulting in distortion of the rope structure.
(3) Evidence of any heat damage from any cause.
(4) Reduction from nominal diameter of more than 3/64 inch for diameters to and including 3/4 inch, 1/16 inch for diameter 2/8 inch to 1 1/8 inches inclusive, 3/32 inch for diameters 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 inches inclusive.
(5) In standing ropes, more than two broken wires in one lay in sections beyond end connections or more than one broken wire at an end connection.
§ 7.378. Permanent elevators.
Under the care and custody of the employer and used by employes for work covered by the act shall comply with the requirements of the Pennsylvania Regulations for Elevators, Escalators, Dumbwaiters, and Hoists, 1967, as amended.
§ 7.379. Drum hoists.
(a) Exposed moving parts such as gears, projecting screws, setscrews, chain, cables, chain sprockets and reciprocating or rotating parts, which constitute a hazard, shall be guarded.
(b) All controls used during the normal operation cycle shall be located within easy reach of the operators station.
(c) Electric motor operated hoists shall be provided with the following:
(1) A device to disconnect all motors from the line upon power failure and not permit any motor to be restarted until the controller handle is brought to the off position.
(2) Where applicable, an overspeed preventive device.
(3) A means whereby remotely operated hoists stop when any control is ineffective. The driving machine drum or sheave is equipped with an electrically released, spring-applied brake, operating on a brake drum directly connected to the drum or drum shaft, and having a capacity sufficient to stop and hold the car at not less than 125% of its rated load when applied at a speed of 125% of rated speed.
A speed control device is provided and operated by the drum, which will cause the application of the drum brake and removal of power from the driving machine motor if the speed of the drum exceeds that corresponding to 125% of a rated car speed. Where the speed control device is chain driven from the drum, a broken chain switch shall be provided.
§ 7.380. Use of freight elevators as hoists.
(a) A new installation of a freight elevator, in a new building or one undergoing alterations, where the hatchways, enclosures and gates have not been completed, may be used as a builders hoist, provided the car is enclosed, the hatchway protected and the entrances guarded as required for builders hoists erected on the inside of buildings. Such an elevator shall be in charge of an experienced elevator erector or helper or hoisting engineer and may be used for carrying freight or building materials. Only the operator and assistants necessary for handling the load, not to exceed three are permitted to ride, except that workmen may be hauled, provided all entrances are protected by temporary doors or gates not less than 6 feet high and set within 4 inches of the edge of the shaftway. Such gates or doors shall be locked from the inside only.
(b) The number of workmen permitted to ride on an uncompleted freight elevator at any one time shall be based on the ratio of one workman to 2 square feet of floor area.
(c) A freight elevator used as a builders hoist shall be properly tested and approved by an authorized inspector employed by the Department and a certificate issued as a builders hoist before being put in service as a hoist.
§ 7.381. Use of passenger elevators as hoists.
(a) A new installation of a passenger elevator in a new building or one undergoing alterations where the hatchways, enclosures and gates have not been completed, may be used as a builders hoist provided the car is enclosed on three sides, and the hatchway protected as required for builders hoists erected inside of buildings. Such an elevator shall be in charge of an experienced elevator erector or helper or hoisting engineer and may be used for carrying freight or building materials. Only the operator and assistants necessary for handling the load, not to exceed three, are permitted to ride, except that workmen and passengers may be hauled, provided all entrances are protected by temporary doors or gates not less than 6 feet high and set within 4 inches of the edge of the shaftway. Such gates or doors shall be locked from the inside only.
(b) The number of workmen or passengers permitted to ride on any uncompleted passenger elevator at any one time shall be based on the ratio of one workman to 2 square feet of floor area.
(c) A passenger elevator used as a builders hoist shall be properly tested and approved by an authorized inspector employed by the Department and a certificate issued as a builders hoist before being put in service as a hoist.
§ 7.382. Change of certificate.
When a building is completed, the certificate under which any freight or passenger elevator has been operated as a builders hoist shall become void and a new certificate shall be taken out to operate the installation as a freight or passenger elevator.
§ 7.383. Signal system.
The provisions of this § 7.384 adopted November 22, 1974, 4 Pa.B. 2419.
Subchapter M. AERIAL PASSENGER TRAMWAYS
GENERAL Sec.
7.411. Scope.
7.412. Stipulations.
7.413. Inspections and tests.
7.414. Maintenance.
7.415. Operation.
SINGLE AND DOUBLE REVERSIBLE AERIAL TRAMWAYS
7.421. Definitions.
7.422. Applicability.
7.423. Location.
7.424. Width of clearing.
7.425. Towers.
7.426. Capacity and speed.
7.427. Terminals and stations.
7.428. Line structures.
7.429. Line equipment.
7.430. Communications.
7.431. Signs.
7.432. Evacuation.
CHAIR LIFTS, GONDOLA LIFTS AND SKIMOBILES
7.441. Definitions.
7.442. Applicability.
7.443. Location.
7.444. Width of clearing.
7.445. Towers.
7.446. Capacity, speed and loading interval.
7.447. Terminals and stations.
7.448. Line structures.
7.449. Line equipment.
7.450. Communications.
7.451. Signs.
7.452. Evacuation.
7.453. Operation.
T-BAR LIFTS, J-BAR LIFTS, PLATTER LIFTS AND
SIMILAR DEVICES
7.461. Definitions.
7.462. Applicability.
7.463. Location.
7.464. Width of clearing.
7.465. Towers.
7.466. Capacity, speed, and loading interval.
7.467. Terminals and stations.
7.468. Line structures.
7.469. Line equipment.
7.470. Communications.
7.471. Signs.
7.472. Operation.
FIBER ROPE TOWS
7.481. Location.
7.482. Width of clearing.
7.483. Path of rope.
7.484. Speed.
7.485. Terminals and stations.
7.486. Line structures.
7.487. Line equipment.
GENERAL
§ 7.411. Scope.
The provisions of this subchapter outline safety standards for the transportation of passengers for recreational purposes on devices usually referred to as aerial tramways, chair lifts, gondola lifts, skimobiles, T-bar lifts, J-bar lifts, platter lifts, fiber rope tows and similar devices. This subchapter does not cover equipment such as cog railways, cable cars running on rails and equipment which handles materials.
§ 7.412. Stipulations.
In addition to detailed requirements provided for the principal categories of this Subchapter, the following stipulations apply to each category of this subchapter:
(1) For purposes of design, the average passenger shall be considered as having a weight of 170 pounds.
(2) If a designer or manufacturer of equipment wishes to use materials not covered by the code or which may be developed in the future, it is intended that full information be submitted to the committee. The design details, materials and construction features shall provide safety factors equivalent to those specified in this Subchapter.
(3) It is assumed in all cases that tramways will run in a straight line, in plan, between the terminals. Proposals involving lines with angles require special consideration by the authority having jurisdiction unless this subchapter is amended to include such designs.
(4) Provision shall be made to render first aid in the event persons are injured on the tramway. This shall include provision for transporting an injured person off the mountain.
(5) Good housekeeping shall prevail at all times.
This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.449 (relating to line equipment); and 34 Pa. Code § 7.469 (relating to line equipment).
§ 7.415. Operation.
(a) Requirements regarding the marshalling of passengers for smooth and safe loading and unloading without interference are subject to a clear plan of operations. Once such a plan is established by management, succeeding steps shall include the training of attendants and the formulation of a layout of gates and fences.
(b) When wind conditions reach such a point as to make continued operation hazardous to passengers or equipment, the tramway shall be shut down.
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.453 (relating to operation).
SINGLE AND DOUBLE REVERSIBLE AERIAL TRAMWAYS
§ 7.421. Definitions.
The following words and terms, when used in this section and § § 7.4227.432 (relating to single and double reversible aerial tramways), shall have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:
Bicable tramwayA tramway which incorporates standing tracks, usually made of wire cable on which the carriers ride.
Double reversible tramwayA tramway in which two cars or two lines of cars oscillate back and forth between the terminals on two separate paths of travel.
Monocable tramwayA tramway which does not incorporate standing tracks on which the carriers ride. The carriers are instead supported as well as propelled by the hauling or traction wire rope.
Single reversible tramwayA tramway in which a single car or line of cars moves back and forth between the terminals on a single path of travel.
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.422 (relating to applicability); 34 Pa. Code § 7.431 (relating to signs); 34 Pa. Code § 7.441 (relating to definitions); and 34 Pa. Code § 7.461 (relating to definitions).
§ 7.422. Applicability.
The provisions of § § 7.4217.432 (relating to single and double reversible aerial tramways) apply to that class of aerial tramways in which the carriers reciprocate between the terminals, particularly those referred to as single reversible (to and fro) tramways and double reversible (jigback) tramways. Such tramways may be either monocable or bicable.
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.421 (relating to definitions); and 34 Pa. Code § 7.431 (relating to signs).
§ 7.423. Location.
(a) In selecting the location and alignment of tramways, consideration shall be given to the following:
(1) Electric power lines.
(2) Railways.
(3) Highways.
(4) Structures.
(5) Rock and earth slides, cave-ins, washouts, and the like.
(6) Avalanches of snow.
(7) Wind action.
(8) Icing.
(9) Ski slopes and trails.
(10) Rivers and gullies.
(11) Buried installations, including pipelines.
(b) Location with respect to such conditions shall meet the requirements of the authority having jurisdiction. Generally, tramways shall not be in the immediate proximity of, nor cross over or under the items described in paragraphs (1)(4), except when permitted and approved by the authority having jurisdiction.
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.421 (relating to definitions); 34 Pa. Code § 7.422 (relating to applicability); 34 Pa. Code § 7.431 (relating to signs); 34 Pa. Code § 7.443 (relating to location); and 34 Pa. Code § 7.463 (relating to location).
§ 7.424. Width of clearing.
The clearing shall be wide enough to prevent interference with the tramway by the adjacent vegetation. Such clearings shall be protected, if necessary, to avoid washouts which might endanger the tramway or its foundations. Dead trees shall be cleared out far enough back from the line to avoid their falling on the tramway.
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.421 (relating to definitions); 34 Pa. Code § 7.422 (relating to applicability); 34 Pa. Code § 7.431 (relating to signs); 34 Pa. Code § 7.444 (relating to width of clearing); and 34 Pa. Code § 7.464 (relating to width of clearing).
§ 7.425. Towers.
(a) Towers shall be located to conform to the profile of the terrain and designed to provide clearance of the cabins and ropes from all obstructions and ski or hiking trails. Under the most adverse loading conditions, a minimum space of 5 feet shall exist between the lower edge of the cabin or ropes and the terrain or other possible obstacles, including snow pack. Whenever the space is less than 15 feet, a protective fence shall be erected to divert all surface transportation or persons from possible collision.
(b) On monocable tramways, the tower arrangement shall be such that the hauling rope may not depart from a group of tower rollers should the tension in the hauling rope become twice its most unfavorable design value at that point. If a factor of less than two is used, adequate retaining rollers, properly placed, shall be provided. Where the rope load is normally upward, that is, where hold-down or depression rollers are used for normal operating conditions, the rope shall not leave the group of rollers under a condition in which twice the normal concentrated design load passes the tower while the rope is under normal design tension.
(c) On bicable tramways, the tower arrangement shall be such that the track cable under the most adverse operating conditions has a positive break over angle at the saddle. If angles of less than one degree are unavoidable, provision shall be made to keep the track cable in the saddle. Such provisions shall not interfere with any track cable in the saddle nor with any track cable brake operation.
(d) Towers shall be so located as to minimize the surge of the line under operating conditions. Local wind conditions shall be taken into consideration. Towers and ropes shall be so arranged as to prevent the collision of passing cabins in the event of lateral swinging due to winds.
(e) At passing places, the distances between the two cabins swung ten degrees inward from the vertical should be at least 2 feet, 6 inches. In no case shall this distance be less than 0.5% of the span length.
(f) Towers containing provision for change in height of rope and cable supports shall not be used.
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.421 (relating to definitions); 34 Pa. Code § 7.422 (relating to applicability); 34 Pa. Code § 7.428 (relating to line structures); and 34 Pa. Code § 7.431 (relating to signs).
§ 7.426. Capacity and speed.
(a) Capacity. The design capacity of each cabin shall be posted in a conspicuous place in that cabin and at each loading platform.
(b) Speed. Maximum car speeds shall be as follows:
(1) Bicable tramways using track cable brakes on the carriage shall not exceed 1,500 feet per minute.
(2) Bicable tramways using two or more traction ropes and not using track cable brakes shall not exceed 2,000 feet per minute.
(3) Monocable tramways shall not exceed 800 feet per minute across tower rollers, and 2,000 feet per minute in clear spans.
(4) On bicable or monocable tramways, cabins entering terminals shall not exceed 300 feet per minute.
(5) On bicable tramways, when there is no conductor in a cabin, the maximum speeds specified in paragraphs (1) and (2) shall be reduced by 25%, and speeds when passing over tower saddles shall be reduced to 2/3 of the speeds permitted elsewhere. It is also assumed that track cable saddles are so designed that the carriage wheels ride directly on the track cables over the saddles as well as in the spans and do not come in contact with or ride on any part of the saddles, or retaining clips if used. Where such a condition does not exist, speed over the saddles shall be reduced to a maximum of 800 feet per minute.
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.421 (relating to definitions); 34 Pa. Code § 7.422 (relating to applicability); and 34 Pa. Code § 7.431 (relating to signs).
§ 7.427. Terminals and stations.
(a) Power source. Electrical and internal combustion energy may be utilized as a power source, as follows:
(1) Electrical. Exposed electrical transmission wiring shall be so located that in case of collapse or breakage of the power line it will not come in contact with cars, cables or passengers. All electrical work shall comply with the American Standard National Electrical Code, C1-1959 and the American Standard National Electrical Safety Code, C2 (R 1947). Transformer stations and other electrical equipment shall be so protected as to prevent unauthorized persons from entering the area or coming in contact with any portion of the equipment or wiring. Power equipment shall be protected against overloads by proper circuit breakers or fuses.
(2) Internal combustion. Fuel tanks shall be of adequate capacity to permit uninterrupted operation during normal operating hours. In any event, the tank shall be refilled while there is still enough fuel in such tank to bring the fuel to the stations. Fuel tanks shall be buried or so located as to be free of fire hazard. The engine shall always be shut down during refueling. The fuel entry opening shall be capped and located to avoid toxic fumes and fire hazard during refueling. Liquid fuels shall be stored and handled in accordance with the standards of the National Board of Fire Underwriters as outlined in Pamphlet No. 30, Flammable Liquids, June 1959. Also, liquefied petroleum gas installations shall be made in accordance with the standards of the National Board of Fire Underwriters, as outlined in Pamphlet No. 58, Liquefied Petroleum Gases, as amended through 1959.
(b) Prime movers. Prime movers shall have the capacity to handle the most unfavorable design loading conditions. An auxiliary power unit with an independent power source shall be provided which may readily be used to move the cabins to the terminals in the event of power failure, unless other means are provided to return the cabin to the terminal. Internal combustion engine exhaust shall be discharged into the atmosphere.
(c) Speed reducers and gears. Speed reducers and gears shall comply with accepted standard practices, and have the capacity for starting the tramway under the most unfavorable design load conditions.
(d) Bearings, couplings and shafting. Shafting shall be designed in accordance with accepted standard practices. Provision shall be made for the adjustment and lubrication of all bearings and couplings when required. Bearings and couplings shall be selected on the basis of the published recommendations of the manufacturer for the particular use in question. If published data are not available to cover the use, the approval of the manufacturer shall be obtained for the intended use. Bearings and couplings of special design, when used, shall have the approval of a competent mechanical engineer.
(e) Clutches. Any clutch device used between the prime mover and the drive sheave shall meet the requirements for bearings and couplings specified in subsection (d).
(f) Acceleration and speed control. Acceleration and speed controls are required to avoid discomfort to passengers caused by undue longitudinal swinging of the cabin or by excessive acceleration or deceleration and in order to start and stop the cabins smoothly and safely. The following points shall be considered in the design:
(1) Provision shall be made for smooth deceleration of the tramway prior to the actuation of one of the automatic motor brakes specified in subsection (g).
(2) Cabins shall be brought to a stop for loading and unloading, and provision made to make the tramway immobile during loading and unloading periods. The control room shall contain, in full view of the operator, indicators which show the location of the cars at all times.
(3) Provision shall be made for an overhauling load so that the system always operates at a controlled speed not exceeding the rated speed by more than 10%. The power developed by the overhauling load shall be automatically dissipated electrically, hydraulically or pneumatically.
(g) Brakes and stops. Each tramway system shall have brakes and manual stops as follows:
(1) Brakes. Each tramway system shall include the following brakes:
(i) An automatic brake to stop and hold the tramway system under maximum load when power is shut off or the tramway is stopped for any reason. Such brake shall be applied to a drive shaft such that there is no clutch, V-belt, chain drive or similar device between the brake and the drive wheel. The brake shall be electrically released and applied by springs or gravity, except in cases where another type of brake is specifically approved by the authority having jurisdiction. In all cases the brake shall normally be in the applied position. It shall be held open for operation of the tramway by a device which is automatically cut out if power is shut off or the tramway stopped. Such device shall, without exception, be placed in operation before the tramway is started.
(ii) An automatic overspeed device which actuates the brake specified in subparagraph (i) or a similar independent brake when the speed of the prime mover exceeds its rated value by more than 10%.
(iii) A manually-operated brake on the main drive sheave with controls located near the operator.
(iv) On bicable tramways, an automatic track cable brake. Reference should be made to § 7.429(b)(3)(ii) (relating to line equipment).
(2) Stops. Electric switches to stop tramways shall be installed on both terminal platforms. One shall also be installed on the control board of the conductor in each cabin, unless no conductor is required. The stopping system shall be so arranged that the tramway cannot be started until the device that stopped the tramway is reset and the operator obtains clearance from the point at which the device is actuated. It is desirable that a wind gage be installed on the most exposed point along the tramway line. In such case, a conspicuous warning device shall function to alert the operator when wind velocity reaches the established maximum. When wind conditions make operations dangerous, as determined by such a device or by observation of an attendant or the operator, the tramway shall be unloaded and stopped. The tramway shall never be started except by the operator. Reference should also be made to subsections (f) and (t) and § 7.428(d) (relating to line structures).
(h) Machine rooms. Motive power shall be housed in a well-ventilated machine room in a manner which permits proper maintenance and keeps the public away from the machinery. Adequate lighting and protection against lightning and static electricity shall be provided. A minimum of 18 inches clearance shall be provided between machinery and machine room enclosures, and passageways between units of machinery shall have the same minimum width. A fireproof room is preferable, but in any event, fire prevention measures and fire fighting devices shall be installed. A door with a suitable lock shall be installed on all machine rooms.
(i) Protection against moving parts. Moving machine parts which may normally be within reach of personnel shall be fitted with safety guards conforming to American Standard B15.1-1953.
(j) Bull wheels. Bull wheel frames shall be so designed that they will retain the wheel in the event of shaft breakage. The minimum diameter for bull wheels shall be 72 times the diameter of the rope, provided that no gripping device passes around the bull wheel. The minimum diameter for bull wheels shall be 96 times the diameter of the rope if gripping devices travel around the bull wheel. In the latter instance, the angle formed by the cable as it enters and leaves the grip body when passing around the bull wheel shall not exceed seven degrees. The mounting that travels under the action of the counterweight shall be supported on rigid straight rails by means of wheels. The available travel shall be such that the frame does not reach either limit of motion during normal operation and until the hauling rope needs to be resocketed or respliced for other reasons, or replaced.
(k) Sheaves and bearings in terminals. Sheaves and bearings in terminals shall conform to the following:
(1) All drive sheaves. All drive sheaves shall meet the requirements of this subsection.
(2) Hauling rope deflecting sheaves. Hauling rope deflecting sheaves in terminals shall be designed to withstand static and dynamic loads. The tread diameter shall be not less than that recommended by the manufacturer of the hauling rope for the intended use. Standard recommendations are as follows:
Rope Construction Sheave Diameters Category Condition A Condition B 6 x 7 72d 42d 6 x 19 45d 30d 6 x 37 27d 18d (i) For the purposes of this section, the following words and terms shall have the following meanings:
Condition AWhere bending over sheaves is of major importance.
Condition BWhere bending over sheaves is important but some sacrifice in rope life is acceptable to achieve reduction in weight, economy of design, and the like.
dNominal diameter of rope.
(ii) When unlined grooves are used they shall be V-shaped with rounded bottoms having a radius equal to 55% of the rope diameter. Sheave mountings and bearings shall satisfy the recommendations of the manufacturers of the bearings.
(iii) Provision shall be made for grounding the wire rope. When such rope is used as a conductor in the communication system, lightning protection shall be provided and the rope grounded when the tramway is not in operation.
(3) Counterweight rope sheaves. Counterweight rope sheaves are subject to the requirements set forth in paragraph (1), except that antifriction bearings shall be selected to avoid a tendency for flat spots to develop on the rollers or balls.
(4) Track cable deflecting sheaves. Track cable deflecting sheaves in terminals shall be designed to withstand static and dynamic loads. Their tread diameter shall be not less than that recommended by the manufacturer of the track cable for the particular installation and shall also satisfy the allowable bearing load limits of the material with which their grooves are lined. When unlined grooves are used they should be V-shaped with rounded bottoms having a radius equal to 55% of the cable diameter. Sheave mountings and bearings shall satisfy the recommendations of the manufacturers of the bearings. Provision shall be made for grounding the cable. When the cable is used as a conductor in the communication system, lightning protection shall be provided, and the cable shall be grounded when the tramway is not in operation.
(l) Track cable saddles. The requirements for track cable saddles are the same as those set forth in § 7.428(e), except that if saddles in the terminals are located so that the carriage wheels do not pass over them, § 7.428(e)(1)(ii) and (iv) need not apply.
(m) Anchor connections for hauling ropes, track cables, counterweight ropes, tower or station anchor cables or guys, and the like. Rope and cable sockets shall be designed so that they will not be stressed beyond the yield point of the material used when the ropes or cables which they anchor are under tensions equal to their catalog breaking strength. Anchor connections shall be above ground. Any part of the anchorage below ground shall be protected against loss of strength due to corrosion.
(n) Counterweight ropes. Counterweight ropes shall have a minimum factor of safety of six, when new, based on their catalog strength. A copy of the specifications of the wire rope manufacture shall be available to the authority having jurisdiction. Such specifications shall include size, grade rope, construction, type of core, and breaking strength, based on values as published in United States Department of Commerce, National Bureau of Standards Simplified Practice Recommendations 198-50. Before installation the manufacturer shall test to destruction a sample of the rope furnished, and submit a certified report of the results. In the case of ropes of foreign origin, a test shall be made by a reputable testing agency approved by the authority having jurisdiction in order to obtain adequate proof. No splices are permitted in counterweight ropes. Counterweight ropes should be lubricated regularly with a lubricant specifically recommended for this type of service to avoid corrosion. They shall be adjusted so that the counterweight will reach the end of its travel when the corresponding bull wheel carriage comes within not less than 6 inches of the end of its travel.
(o) Counterweights. Counterweights shall be provided for all hauling ropes and be so arranged as to move freely up and down. Enclosures for counterweights shall be provided when necessary to prevent snow or ice from accumulating under and around such counterweights and interfering with their free movement. When snow enclosures are not required, guard rails or enclosures shall be provided to prevent unauthorized persons from coming in contact with or passing under the counterweights. Counterweights shall have sufficient travel to take care of all normal operating changes in loading and temperature. Furthermore, it should preferably have a travel equal to that of the bull wheel carriage, as described in subsection (j), which moves in response to it. If this amount of travel is not available, means shall be provided to shorten the counterweight ropes so that the counterweight will be in full suspension at all times. When counterweights are used for track cables, the same provisions shall apply.
(p) Structures. With respect to static loads, terminal structures shall be designed on the basis of the following:
(1) Steel. American Standard A57.1-1952; American Welding Society Standard Code for Arc and Gas Welding for Building Construction; American Standard for Testing and Materials (ASTM) A6-57T; American Standard for Testing and Materials (ASTM) A7-58T.
(2) Timber. National Lumber Manufacturers Association Wood Structural Design Data.
(3) Concrete. American Standard A89.1-1957 (ACI 318-56).
(4) All structures. The following apply to all terminal structures subject to this subsection:
(i) Applied design loads include dead, live, snow and wind loads, plus impact, and earthquake loadings. They shall satisfy the requirements of American Standard A58.1-1955.
(ii) Attention shall be paid to those portions of the structure which are subject to vibration from moving parts. In such cases, the governing criterion may be deflection or natural period of vibration. The design shall be made or reviewed by an engineer competent to handle such problems.
(iii) Terminals located in snow creep areas shall be designed for such loads or be protected by snow breakers or shears.
(iv) Pressure due to snow creep may be approximated by use of the following:
(A) Formula.
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(B) For the purposes of this section, the following symbols shall have the following meanings:
PsTotal pressure on the object in pounds.
WWidth of snow in pounds per cubic foot.
BWidth of object in feet.
DVertical depth of snow in feet.
Angle between horizontal and slope of ground surface.
(v) All terminals should be grounded so as to satisfy all national and local codes. The local electric power company is normally a good source of information regarding such code requirements.
(q) Foundations. Foundations for vertical loads shall satisfy the design requirements of subsection (p). For foundations for inclined or horizontal loads the structure of the anchorage shall satisfy the design requirements of subsection (p). In determining the resistance of the earth to motion of the anchorage, the subsoil conditions at the site shall be considered, including any buoyancy due to ground water which may be present. If the resistance of the soil is not practically determinable, the anchorage should be designed as a gravity anchor, using a coefficient of friction appropriate to the general character of the soil. Reference should also be made to § 7.428(b).
(r) Loading and unloading platforms. Steps should be avoided in all loading and unloading areas if possible. Platforms should be as level as practical and there shall be sufficient space for passengers waiting to ascend and descend. Railings shall be provided to guide passengers safely to and from cabins. Deadman controls shall be provided to stop the tramway in case the operator suddenly becomes incapacitated. Guide rails with curved ends shall be provided so that entrance and exit of cabins to and from platforms may be accomplished smoothly and without impact when the cabins are deflected from the vertical by ten degrees.
(s) Attendants. At least one trained platform attendant shall be present each time a cabin enters or leaves a terminal. The car conductor may serve as such an attendant if no loading passengers are permitted on the platform until it is cleared of all unloading passengers. There shall be a conductor who has knowledge of normal and emergency duties in each car having a capacity of more than six passengers during each trip. Reference should be made to § 7.429(b)(4) (relating to line equipment). The tramway operator shall be located where he has the best possible view of the tramway. His controls and communicating devices shall be within his reach without leaving his position.
(t) Safety stops. Limit switches or equivalent devices shall be installed to take over the operation of the drive automatically if the operator fails to decelerate the tramway when the cabin enters the terminal area. A further limiting device shall be installed to cut power and stop the tramway before the cabin reaches its limit of travel. An adequate bumper system shall also be installed. Limit switches may be installed to stop the tramway before any counterweight or bull wheel carriage reaches either end of its travel. Electrical stop circuits shall be closed circuits so that, in the event of power failure or of malfunction of a stop switch, the system will fail safe. Circuits shall be all metallic and ungrounded, unless otherwise approved by the authority having jurisdiction. After any actuation of a safety stop, the cause shall be determined and removed. The safety stop shall be reset. Safety stop circuits shall not be bypassed during passenger operation. The tramway shall never be started except by an experienced operator. Reference should be made to subsections (f) and (g) of this section and § 7.428(d).
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.421 (relating to definitions); 34 Pa. Code § 7.422 (relating to applicability); 34 Pa. Code § 7.427 (relating to terminals and stations); 34 Pa. Code § 7.431 (relating to signs); 34 Pa. Code § 7.449 (relating to line equipment); and 34 Pa. Code § 7.469 (relating to line equipment).
§ 7.430. Communications.
(a) A communication system shall be provided. The following types of communication are recommended for major installations:
(1) Terminal-to-terminal two-way telephone or radiophone communication independent of all other forms of communication.
(2) Two-way telephone communication or radiophone communication from operating room to all attended tramcars and to the opposite terminal platform.
(3) Two-way pushbutton signal (buzzer system) communication from the operating room to all attended tramcars and to the opposite terminal.
(b) A reduction of the system of communication for less important installations may be approved by the authority having jurisdiction.
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.421 (relating to definitions); 34 Pa. Code § 7.422 (relating to applicability); and 34 Pa. Code § 7.431 (relating to signs).
§ 7.431. Signs.
No signs are required other than those specified elsewhere in § § 7.4217.432 if attendants and conductors are placed as specified. Signs, if used, should be short, simple, bold in design, and to the point.
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.421 (relating to definitions) and 34 Pa. Code § 7.422 (relating to applicability).
§ 7.432. Evacuation.
Tram cabins shall be equipped with a trap door and either a rope ladder or boatswains chair capable of reaching the ground from the highest point. Consideration should be given to the provision of auxiliary emergency cars for the evacuation of unusually timid or invalid or physically handicapped passengers, or in cases of extreme heights. An auxiliary hauling rope or emergency car system shall be provided in cases of extreme height or hazardous terrain.
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.421 (relating to definitions); 34 Pa. Code § 7.422 (relating to applicability); and 34 Pa. Code § 7.431 (relating to signs).
CHAIR LIFTS, GONDOLA LIFTS AND SKIMOBILES
§ 7.441. Definitions.
(a) The following words and terms, when used in this section and § § 7.4427.453, have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:
CarriersOpen chairs, cars, or gondolas, which may be permanently attached to the hauling rope, or detached at the terminals.
Monorail lifeA tramway in which the carriers are supported on a rigid overhead rail of I-beam or similar construction.
TramwaysThose of the bicable, monocable, or monorail type.(b) The definitions specified in § 7.421 (relating to definitions) shall also apply.
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.442 (relating to applicability); and 34 Pa. Code § 7.462 (relating to applicability).
§ 7.442. Applicability.
The provisions of § § 7.4417.453 apply to that class of aerial tramways in which the carriers circulate around the system, traveling from one terminal to the other along one path of travel and returning along another path of travel, making U-turns in both terminals. Such provisions do not apply to tramways in which passengers are in contact with the ground or snow during the trip. Skimobiles and similar devices, though they might not be denoted as aerial tramways, are subject to such provisions.
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.441 (relating to definitions); and 34 Pa. Code § 7.462 (relating to applicability).
§ 7.443. Location.
The location of chair lifts, gondola lifts, and skimobiles is subject to the requirements specified for single and double reversible aerial tramways in § 7.423 (relating to location).
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.441 (relating to definitions); 34 Pa. Code § 7.442 (relating to applicability); and 34 Pa. Code § 7.462 (relating to applicability).
§ 7.444. Width of clearing.
Clearings for chair lifts, gondola lifts, and skimobiles are subject to the requirements specified for single and double reversible aerial tramways in § 7.424 (relating to width of clearing).
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.441 (relating to definitions); 34 Pa. Code § 7.442 (relating to applicability); 34 Pa. Code § 7.447 (relating to terminals and stations); and 34 Pa. Code § 7.462 (relating to applicability).
§ 7.450. Communications.
A two-way voice communication system shall be provided between the motor control point and all loading and unloading stations. A public address system reaching all points along the line is recommended.
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.441 (relating to definitions); 34 Pa. Code § 7.442 (relating to applicability); and 34 Pa. Code § 7.462 (relating to applicability).
§ 7.451. Signs.
(a) The following signs, if relevant to the type of lift, shall be posted where they may be read by all persons using the tramway:
(1) If not familiar with use of lift, ask attendant for instructions.
(2) Prepare to unload (at a distance of not less than 50 feet ahead of unloading area).
(3) Keep ski tips up.
(b) Additional signs may be advisable at some installations.
(c) Signs should be bold in design and easily readable.
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.441 (relating to definitions); 34 Pa. Code § 7.442 (relating to applicability); and 34 Pa. Code § 7.462 (relating to applicability).
§ 7.452. Evacuation.
A system of planned evacuation of passengers from the lift, in the event of power failure or breakdown, shall be established to the satisfaction of the authority having jurisdiction. Adequate equipment for such evacuation shall be available at all times for immediate use.
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.441 (relating to definitions); 34 Pa. Code § 7.442 (relating to applicability); and 34 Pa. Code § 7.462 (relating to applicability).
§ 7.453. Operation.
In addition to the requirements provided in § 7.415 (relating to operation), reference shall be made to § 7.427(g) (relating to terminals and stations) or § 7.447(g) (relating to terminals and stations).
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.441 (relating to definitions); 34 Pa. Code § 7.442 (relating to applicability); 34 Pa. Code § 7.462 (relating to applicability); and 34 Pa. Code § 7.472 (relating to operation).
T-BAR LIFTS, J-BAR LIFTS, PLATTER LIFTS AND
SIMILAR DEVICES
§ 7.461. Definitions.
The definitions specified in § 7.421 (relating to definitions) shall apply to this section and § § 7.4627.472.
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.462 (relating to applicability).
§ 7.462. Applicability.
The provisions of § § 7.4617.472 apply to that class of aerial tramways subject to the provisions of § § 7.4417.453, but is limited to those devices in which the passengers are in contact with the ground or snow during the trip. Such devices are normally of the monocable type.
Cross References This sections cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.461 (relating to definition); and 34 Pa. Code § 7.462 (relating to applicability).
§ 7.464. Width of clearing.
Clearings for T-bar lifts, J-bar lifts, platter lifts, and similar devices are subject to the requirements specified for single and double reversible aerial tramways in § 7.424 (relating to width of clearing).
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.461 (relating to definitions); and 34 Pa. Code § 7.462 (relating to applicability).
§ 7.465. Towers.
(a) Towers shall be located to conform to the profile of the terrain and be so located that, under the most adverse loading conditions, the towing device is unable to lift any passenger off the snow. Also, under the most adverse conditions, the hauling rope shall be high enough to clear the passengers head by at least 2 feet. Towers shall also be so arranged that descending empty towing outfits are clear of the snow.
(b) Towers shall be of a height and so located that, if the rope comes off the supporting sheaves of a tower, the towers on either side will support the rope clear of grade by at least 2 feet.
(c) In areas of deep snow, it may be imperative to use variable tower heights. In such cases, changes in tower height shall be made in a manner to avoid overloading or underloading of tower sheave units. This control, when necessary, shall be provided in the manner prescribed in § 7.445(b) (relating to towers).
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.461 (relating to definitions); 34 Pa. Code § 7.462 (relating to applicability); and 34 Pa. Code § 7.469 (relating to line equipment).
§ 7.466. Capacity, speed, and loading interval.
The combination of rope speed and action of the towing outfit shall be such that the skiers are accelerated at a safe rate as they are mounting the lift. When the average level of ability of the skiers to mount the lift is relatively low, acceleration shall be reduced by changing the traveling speed of the rope. The minimum loading interval for T-bars shall be 5 seconds plus the time required to extend the towing outfit to such a point that the skiers begin to move. The minimum loading interval for single passenger outfits shall be three seconds plus the time required to extend the towing outfit to such a point that the skier begins to move. These figures represent capacities of something less than 1,400 and 1,200 passengers per hour, respectively.
Cross References This section cited in 34 Pa. Code § 7.461 (relating to definitions); 34 Pa. Code § 7.462 (relating to applicability); and 34 Pa. Code § 7.467 (relating to terminals and stations).
§ 7.469. Line equipment.
(a) Hauling ropes. Hauling ropes shall conform to the following:
(1) Specifications and tests. Specifications and tests shall comply with the provisions of § 7.429(a)(1) (relating to line equipment).
(2) Tension limitations. The tension of ropes shall comply with the provisions of § 7.429(a)(2).
(3) Splices. Splicing of the main hauling rope shall be done only by an experienced splicer acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction. If a breakdown occurs during operations and it is impossible to obtain an acceptable splicer without delaying the assumption of operation, the splice shall be made by an experienced splicer following the standard printed instructions of the wire rope manufacturer for the long splice. Such splice shall be inspected by an acceptable splicer at the first opportunity.
(b) Towing outfits. As regards towing outfits, the following shall apply:
(1) Bar or platter in contact with skier. The bar or platter in contact with the skier shall be so desi