Introduction
Regular inspections of elevator recall switches are essential for maintaining life safety systems in buildings. This comprehensive checklist helps facility managers and maintenance personnel identify potential issues before they lead to emergency system failures, code violations, or elevator malfunctions during critical fire conditions. A thorough inspection not only ensures regulatory compliance with ASME A17.1/CSA B44 Safety Code but also maximizes system reliability and occupant safety.
Following this elevator recall switch inspection checklist as part of your routine maintenance helps create a safer built environment, prevents emergency system failures, and provides valuable documentation for compliance with fire marshal inspections. The checklist aligns with industry standards, manufacturer specifications, and best practices for elevator fire service operations.
Equipment Information
Pro Tips for Effective Elevator Recall Switch Inspection
- Coordinate With Building Staff: Always notify building management, security, and occupants before testing recall switches. Testing will temporarily remove elevators from service and may activate alarms.
- Check Fire System Status: Verify that the fire alarm system is not in alarm condition and that testing will not trigger an actual emergency response. Contact monitoring companies before testing.
- Have Keys Ready: Ensure you have all required firefighter's service keys (Phase I and Phase II) before beginning inspection. These keys should be properly secured and controlled.
Physical Inspection
Fire Alarm Integration
Power and Electrical System
Operational Testing - Phase I
Operational Testing - Phase II
Signaling and Indicators
Door Operation in Fire Service
Documentation and Compliance
Detailed Testing Procedures
Follow these structured procedures to ensure a thorough inspection and testing of elevator recall switch systems. Adapt these steps to your specific elevator model and control system.
Phase I Recall Testing Procedure
- Notify building management and security before testing
- Place the Phase I switch in the "ON" position
- Verify elevator returns to designated recall floor
- Confirm doors open and remain open at recall floor
- Verify visual indicators illuminate properly
Alternate Floor Recall Testing
- Simulate primary floor fire detection activation
- Verify elevator recalls to alternate floor
- Confirm doors open and remain open at alternate floor
- Test with both Phase I switch and simulated detector activation
- Reset system after testing
Phase II Operation Testing
- Place elevator in Phase I recall mode first
- Enter car and turn Phase II switch to "ON" position
- Test door open/close button functionality
- Verify car responds only to car calls during Phase II
- Test "HOLD" position on Phase II switch (if equipped)
Fire Alarm Integration Testing
- Coordinate with fire alarm technician
- Activate fire alarm detector near elevator
- Verify automatic recall occurs without using key switch
- Test both primary and alternate recall detector zones
- Document response times and operation
Inspection Progress
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Electronic Signature
Apply Signature
Defects & Maintenance Notes
Maintenance Guidelines
These guidelines outline recommended maintenance tasks to complement your inspections. Following these schedules helps prevent emergency system failures and ensures elevator fire service operations remain reliable.
Monthly Maintenance
- Visual inspection of Phase I switches and key operation
- Verify indicator lights are functioning properly
- Check signage for damage or illegibility
- Ensure keys are present and accessible to emergency personnel
Quarterly Maintenance
- Perform complete Phase I recall function test
- Clean switch contacts and keyholes
- Verify fire alarm integration is functioning
- Check wiring connections and terminals
Annual Maintenance
- Comprehensive testing of all Phase I and Phase II functions
- Coordinate with fire alarm testing and inspection
- Test under both normal and emergency power conditions
- Update documentation and certification
- Review for code compliance and updates
Five-Year Certification
- Complete Category 1 and Category 5 testing with AHJ witness
- Full load testing of emergency operations
- Comprehensive review of all fire service components
- Documentation of fire service certifications
Conclusion
Implementing this comprehensive Elevator Recall Switch Inspection Checklist is essential for maintaining building life safety systems and ensuring code compliance. By systematically inspecting critical components on a regular schedule, facility managers and maintenance personnel can identify potential issues before they lead to emergency system failures during actual fire conditions.
For optimal inspection management, consider implementing the Oxmaint software to streamline your elevator safety checks. The Oxmaint platform allows digital documentation of inspections, provides real-time alerts for maintenance requirements, and creates comprehensive historical records for each elevator system. With the Oxmaint APP, building managers can easily track compliance, monitor maintenance patterns, and ensure all elevator fire service operations are properly inspected.
Make elevator recall switch inspections an integral part of your building safety protocols with the Oxmaint software's comprehensive inspection management solution. Whether for ASME A17.1/CSA B44 compliance, local fire code requirements, or operational safety, this digital approach significantly improves inspection thoroughness and documentation while reducing administrative burden on maintenance personnel.
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