Elevators

FAQ for New Construction

What thickness of floor material can be installed in an elevator?

On a standard elevator, the flooring can be up to 5/8 inch thick, which means half-inch tile can be accommodated.

How much overhead is required in the machine room?

The B44 Elevator Code Clause 2.7.4.1 requires 2,130 mm of clear overhead in the machine room, while the Ontario Electrical Code requires only 2,000 mm. No lighting or other ceiling-mounted devices are permitted to hang below the 2,130 mm mark.

How long does it take to install an elevator?

Actual on-site time for the elevator installation crews ranges from about two weeks for an accessibility lift, to four weeks for a hydraulic elevator, and six weeks for a traction elevator.

Since prep work needs to be done by other trades before the installation of the device, timelines for an elevator project should be doubled at a minimum—so four weeks for an accessibility lift, eight weeks for hydraulic elevator, etc.

What is “non-proprietary” elevator equipment?

Elevators and elevator components range in their proprietary nature. Prior to making a purchase decision for a new elevator or controller, it is important to understand how an installation will be affected by the proprietary components of the product under consideration.

For example, including a proprietary device in a building design may limit who can bid on the contract and end up costing the owner more.

Delta controllers are available with or without a diagnostic tool. The diagnostic tool allows other elevator maintenance companies to service Delta elevators. Tools can also be purchased as an after-market item. Delta stands behind its product 100% and supports its elevators regardless of who is maintaining them, giving you the freedom to choose your elevator maintenance company.

Download Delta’s Non-Proprietary Worksheet (PDF) for additional information on this critical issue.

What are elevator loading requirements?

All elevating devices have a loading classification set by the B44 Elevator Code pertaining to the device’s capacity and loading method.

Intended use, probable loads, and loading method should be determined early so that elevating devices can be appropriately classified and designed for safe operation. It is important that the loading classification matches the elevating device's intended use.

Review loading classifications permitted under the B44 Elevator Code that are available from Delta Elevator Co Ltd.

What security systems provision does my elevator need to have?

The Security System Dilemma
Although elevator specifications often include security system provisions when issued, it is common that final decisions about the system format have not been made. Unfortunately, because there are so many security system options, no single provision in an elevator can accommodate them all.

Complicating matters is the adoption in the B44-07 Elevator Safety Code that made Firefighters Emergency Operation (FEO) mandatory for most new passenger elevators. Now, when FEO is enabled, the elevator must respond to the emergency condition unencumbered by any security provisions in effect. This introduced a new mode of operation for elevators with security provisions: The elevator microprocessor must over-ride the security system when FEO is enabled.

Delta’s Perspective
When subcontractors are asked to make security system provisions without a detailed specification, they often choose to meet the minimum requirement to keep their price competitive. This usually results in an extra to the contractor after the details have been determined.

Delta’s position is to fully disclose to contractors, architects, consultants, and owners the nature of our provisions. Our standard practice for dealing with the requirement to make a provision for a security system includes the following:

• Where possible, reserve a 2” high x 4” wide x 3” deep space in the elevator car operating panel (COP) for the installation of a device such as a proximity/card reader that is installed by others under the supervision of Delta.
• Providing four (4) 20AWG twisted pairs in the traveling cable(s) to facilitate communication between the security interface in the elevator device and a remote-control panel. Wiring from the remote security control panel to the elevator controller is the responsibility of the security system contractor.
• Providing the required 24VDC security system signal inputs (provided the requirements are established prior to final inspection of the elevator group).

A Final Word
Because there are many different security system formats, some cannot be accommodated by Delta’s standard practice. However, if the specification details are known, Delta’s Engineering Department can make the appropriate provision in the elevator controls to ensure a smooth interface to the security system.

Contact Delta if you have questions regarding security system provision requirements. Together we can ensure your security system needs are fully met with the minimal financial impact!

What is the difference between Firefighters’ Emergency Operation (FEO) and Elevators for Use by Firefighters?

Both the Building Code and the B44 Elevator Code reference the use of elevators in emergency situations. The Building Code governs “Elevators for Use by Firefighters,” while the Elevator Code governs “Firefighters’ Emergency Operation.”

Unfortunately, the requirements and purpose of each code’s rules and regulations are sometimes confused in tender documents. This can lead to extra costs on the job site in order to pass the final inspection.

Learn more

Does my building need a Accessibility Lift, a LULA, or a full elevator?

When designing your building, it is important to consider accessibility. Please see our Accessibility Design page.

Is Firefighters’ Emergency Operation (FEO) required for a LULA elevator?

Yes and No. FEO Phase 1 (Recall) is required on all LULA elevators installed according to the 2010 version of the code. FEO Phase 2 (In-car emergency service) is not permitted by the same code. LULA elevators are not suited to emergency services applications. A LULA elevator does not require a pit drain or sump pump.

Is a hoist beam required for an Accessibility Lift or for a LULA elevator?

No, hoist beams are not required for either of these Delta products.

How important are drawings and approvals?

Drawings and approvals are extremely important for a smooth installation process. All the required information for the General Contractor is provided in these documents. Once they are accepted, the elevator equipment is custom built to those specifications. It is the General Contractor’s responsibility to ensure the hoistway, the machine room, and the related feeds meet the approved design.

Can changes be made to Delta’s standard products?

It is most economical to use our standard products. However, because we design and manufacture our own elevators and controllers, with accurate information and a reasonable lead time we can provide you with a custom solution at a fair price.

Are there any “green” or environmentally friendly options for elevators?

Yes:

• Biodegradable hydraulic oil can be used in our Hydraulic Elevators.
• Delta’s MRL Elevators are very energy-efficient, although they are more complex and require more material to manufacture than hydraulic elevators.
• See our Sustainability page for information on LEED certification for your building.

Can I use my elevator for construction?

Under the right circumstances, a General Contractor may use an elevator to transport the significant amounts of material that often need to be moved from floor to floor during the finishing stages and commissioning of larger buildings. The TSSA classifies these as "Temporary Use" elevators.

Temporary Use elevators must be inspected by the TSSA first, put on a maintenance contract during use, and returned to like-new condition by the elevator contractor afterward. It is important to plan for these additional costs and requirements early in the design process.

Delta can accommodate requests for the use of a Temporary Use Elevator provided that the following documents are in place:

• An agreement signed by the General Contractor confirming the condition of the elevator prior to the start of its use as a construction elevator.
• A maintenance agreement signed by the General Contractor outlining Delta’s maintenance responsibilities and setting the General Contractor’s monthly fee.
• An approved change order detailing the restoration timeline and costs payable to Delta for the work involved in returning the elevator to like-new condition.

Please see our Temporary Use Elevators page for more information.