Safety Tips for Elevator Passengers

While some elevator related accidents are out of your control, there are others that can be prevented. Of course you can’t control a malfunction with the elevator equipment, but as a passenger, you can remain alert and follow good practices to keep yourself and the people around you safe. On this page, I will discuss some of these safety tips that can help you prevent injury.

Entering an Elevator

While waiting for an elevator, there are a few things that you can do to prevent injury. First, it is a good idea to make sure that you are standing a reasonable distance from the elevator. This will allow the other passengers to disembark before you and other passengers try to enter the elevator. This is especially helpful if you are traveling with children. Teaching them to wait their turn can prevent clogging in the elevator.

When you get into the elevator, make sure to watch your step. Sometimes there is a slight gap or misleveling between the elevator car and the building floor. This could cause you to trip or get your foot stuck when getting on or off an elevator.

Also be aware of how crowded the elevator is. If people are packing in, the elevator might be reaching its weight capacity. In this case, it is better to wait for the next car than try to cram too many people into one car. Going over the weight limit could cause the elevator to break down.

Don’t try to run to catch an elevator, especially if the doors are closing. If you do this, you risk getting a limb caught in the doors, which could lead to injury.

In the Elevator

While in the elevator, don’t jump around too much. Some people – especially young children – will try to jump in the elevator. But this can lead to problems, so it is better to stay still. Hold on to the guard rail if you are close enough to one to do so. If you know that you have balance problems and you are in a crowded elevator, ask the other passengers if you can switch places so that you can reach a guard rail.

Exiting an Elevator

When it is time to get out of an elevator, don’t push through the crowd of people. Wait until there is a clear path for you to walk through. Once again, watch your step. The car and the floor could be uneven, or there could be a gap between them. Hold on to the sides of the elevator as you get off if you need some support. Other passengers should allow you to get off before they get on.

Emergency Situation

If you find yourself in a situation where the elevator stops between floors, don’t panic. There should be a button on the control panel to call for help. Simply press this button and you should be able to interact with someone who can send assistance. At this time, it is best to wait for a professional to arrive and assist you. Don’t try to take it upon yourself to fix the problem. You should also stay inside the elevator – don’t try to climb out the top. At this point, it is just a waiting game until someone can assist you. Try to keep yourself and those around you calm. Eventually help will come.

Getting Help

Of course, even following all of these safety tips cannot guarantee that you will not get injured in an elevator accident. If you are injured, you can contact my office for assistance. We can answer your questions and help you get the compensation that you need.