Elevator Technician how-to
How to Perform Preventive Maintenance on a Traction Elevator
Regular maintenance prevents breakdowns and keeps elevators safe and compliant.
Quick answer
Regular maintenance prevents breakdowns and keeps elevators safe and compliant. In short: notify; follow; inspect, then complete the remaining steps below.
Step by step
Notify building management and place the elevator out of service.
Follow lockout/tagout procedures before working on the machine.
Inspect the machine, brake, sheaves and ropes for wear.
Check the controller for error logs and loose connections.
Inspect doors, door operators and safety edges.
Lubricate components as specified and log all work.
Safety reminders for elevator technicians
- Follow lockout/tagout before working on equipment
- Use fall protection in hoistways and on car tops
- Never work under a car without proper blocking
- Treat all circuits as energized until tested
Key terms
Traction elevator · Hydraulic elevator · Machine-room-less (MRL) · Hoistway · Pit · Controller: see the full elevator technician glossary.