Elevator Safety Guidelines While elevators are generally considered safe, the New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) recommends following these simple safety tips when riding in elevators:
1. Ensure Level Entry and Exit: When entering or exiting an elevator, look down to confirm it is level with the ground. Avoid exiting if it stops more than nine inches from the landing. 2. Use "Door Open" Button: Instead of using your arm or leg to stop closing elevator doors, it's safer to use the "door open" button to hold the doors. 3. Avoid Crowded Elevators: Opt to wait for the next elevator rather than cramming into a packed one. Overcrowded elevators are more likely to get stuck, causing delays. 4. In Case of Emergency: If you get stuck in an elevator, use the emergency alarm on the button panel. Do not attempt to pry open the doors; wait for an expert to arrive.
Interesting Elevator Facts Elevators, often underestimated, have fascinating statistics associated with them. Here are some intriguing facts:
1. Global Elevator Usage: Elevators worldwide transport the equivalent of Earth's population every three days. 2. Maximum Height: Elevators can reach a maximum height of 500 meters (1700 feet) before the weight of the cables would cause the elevator to fall. 3. Safety Statistic: Statistically, elevators are 20 times safer than escalators, making them the safest mode of vertical transportation. 4. Origin of Elevator Music: Elevator music was introduced in the 1920s to ease travelers' apprehensions about riding elevators. It was played to create a calming atmosphere for riders. 5. Close Button Effect: The close button in elevators is a placebo effect; the doors close automatically, but the button gives riders a sense of control. 6. Ground Floor Indication: Many elevator panels use a star or asterisk to indicate the ground floor, although designs may vary.
The Elevator's Role in Urban Expansion Elevators, often overlooked in daily life, play a significant role in urban development, particularly in a city like New York. They facilitate vertical growth and high-rise living. Regular inspection and maintenance are crucial to their safety and functionality. Elevators are a cornerstone of modern cityscapes, enabling skyscrapers to dominate the skyline and contribute to the city's upward expansion.