In the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, there are a few things that building owners, building managers and do to keep everyone safe and their building running well. The elevator is the building’s main artery, so ensuring it is running well has an essential role in managing all the risks associated with Covid-19. Especially when there are still many restrictions in place.
1. Use this time to study elevator traffic.
Many people are still working from home, so this may affect traffic patterns with your elevator. Study wait times and average wait times. This may allow you to adjust usage based on those patterns.
2. Post social distancing guidelines
Elevators are confined spaces, so social distancing can be difficult. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends limiting the number of people riding an elevator at any one time. Post this notice while also encouraging people to stay 6 feet apart.
3. Install lights, filters or fans
CDC has stated that Covid-19 spreads through the air by respiratory droplets. There is no proof of these solutions, but many buildings have decided to install fans, filters and UV lights to try and mitigate the spread of the virus.
4. Apply antimicrobial film to elevator buttons
Infected surfaces are another concern for building owners and they are installing innovative ways to limit touching surfaces. Some building owners are applying antimicrobial film to the elevator buttons. Some are installing touchless technologies, or even going old school and having a security or a dispatcher control the elevator. Many buildings are also making available hand sanitizer, masks and wipes too.
5. Stay on top of elevator maintenance.
As most buildings are open and elevators continue to run in some capacity, elevators are expected to perform well day to day. Since many elevators are not being used as much, this is a great time to review maintenance records and make sure everything is up to date.
6. Make repairs in this slower time.
Elevator Service Providers are essential workers, so take advantage of this lower occupancy in buildings to do preventative maintenance, upgrades or even repairs.
7. Investment Protection
The elevator is a very important investment for any building owner. Downtime and repairs, as well as non-compliance fees can add up fast. This is a perfect time to review your contracts and ensure you are getting all the services you are paying for.
Vertical Systems Analysis, (VSA Consulting), is a 35-year old vertical transportation consulting company with offices in New York City, (NYC), Miami, Philadelphia and Chicago. https://www.vsaconsulting.com
