What is Elevator Code and Why is it Important?

In Colorado, elevator code is mandated by the Colorado Department of Labor & Employment.  CDLE, as they are referred to, then can grant local jurisdictions the ability to manage & enforce CDLE's policy and any policies stricter than CDLE's as the local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) sees fit.

Who Enforces Elevator Code?

Western Colorado, the Authority Having Jurisdiction is the Northwest Colorado Council of Governments (NWCOG).  

"The NWCCOG Elevator Inspection Program (EIP) inspects and issues permits for commercial and residential conveyances (elevators, lifts and escalators) to ensure safe conveyances throughout the region. The program began in 1993. Prior to that, most conveyances were not inspected."

Who Performs Elevator Inspections?

NWCOG's elevator program now serves Routt, Garfield, Clear Creek, Eagle, Summit, Pitkin, Moffat, Grand and Jackson counties which includes most of the cities and towns within those areas.  The elevator program's director, David Harris, and NWCOG's elevator inspectors conduct the inspections.

How Often do I need an Elevator Inspection?

These inspections are done annually.

Elevator Inspection Reports & Violations

Upon the completion of an elevator inspection by NWCOG, the designated building contact (often the owner or manager) will receive a complete report detailing their elevator's current safety & code compliance.

Elevator Annual Safety Testing

One key area of elevator safety is annual elevator safety testing.  This testing is performed by the elevator service contractor, not the inspector. During this testing, a licensed elevator technician will ensure the elevator meets all current safety codes.  The elevator mechanic will then document all conditions reported on a standardized, NWCOG Elevator Safety Test Form.

A complete list of current forms can be found here: https://www.nwccog.org/programs/elevator-inspection-program/additional-resources/

Violations for Elevator Inspections

If your elevator does not meet current code or is deemed unsafe, your Elevator Inspection Report will include violations with a date they need to be corrected by.  You should work with your current elevator service provider to have these corrected immediately to avoid penalties or fines.  If your current elevator contractor isn't getting these violations taken care of, we can help!  Contact us below and we'll help get you compliant ASAP.

To learn more about elevators and elevator safety, visit our elevator blog now.