California Elevator Emergency Control Functions (by Group)
Group 1 – Administrative Regulations (Applies to All Elevators)
Applies regardless of installation date. Establishes definitions, permit/inspection procedures, and general safety policies.
| Function | Description | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Inspection | All elevators require annual inspections and compliance with inspection findings. | Title 8 §3001 |
| Permits & Variances | Installation, alteration, or relocation requires Division permit. | Title 8 §§3003–3006 |
Group 2 – Installed Before Oct 25, 1998
Older devices installed prior to modern code alignment. May be subject to retroactive provisions.
| Function | Description | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Phase I Recall | Required for elevators installed before 10/6/1975 per §3041(c), enforced by 1978 deadline (some exceptions apply). | Title 8 §3041(c) |
| Shunt Trip | Required if sprinklers are installed in hoistway or machine room. Must be activated by heat detector. | CBC §3006.5, NFPA 72 §21.4 |
| Heat Detector | Must activate before sprinkler discharge. Lower temp and faster RTI than sprinkler required. | NFPA 72 §21.4.2 |
| Hoistway Venting | Required if hoistway contains driving machine. Vent must be automatic + manual override. | CBC §3003.4 |
Modernization may trigger full or partial compliance with Group 4 standards (per Title 8 §3141.2).
Group 3 – Installed Oct 25, 1998 to Apr 30, 2008
Must comply with ASME A17.1-1996 with California amendments.
| Function | Description | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Phase I & II Operation | Required. Recall and firefighter operation per ASME A17.1-1996. | Title 8 §3120.6; ASME A17.1 |
| Shunt Trip & Sprinklers | Same as Group 2. Required if sprinklered. | CBC §3006.5, NFPA 72 |
| Fire Hat Symbol | Required if modernized with new controller or affected components. | ASME A17.1 (triggered by alteration) |
| Venting Requirements | Likely present. If modernized, vents must meet current automation requirements. | CBC §3003.4 |
Group 4 – Installed May 1, 2008 and Later
Subject to the most current requirements in ASME A17.1-2004+ and CBC/Title 8 Sections 3140–3146.
| Function | Description | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Phase I & II Operation | Full compliance required, including fire service key switch, Phase II inside car, recall by smoke detection. | Title 8 §3141.2; CBC §3003.1.3 |
| Occupant Evacuation Operation (OEO) | Required in some high-rise buildings per CBC and ASME A17.1-2013 or later. | CBC §3008; ASME A17.1 §2.27.12 |
| Venting | Required unless exemption conditions for mechanical ventilation are met. | CBC §3003.4 |
| Emergency Comms & Signage | Two-way communications, fire hat symbol, Braille, emergency lighting required. | ASME A17.1-2004+, CBC Ch.11B |
Modernization Trigger Table
This table outlines common elevator system alterations and the code requirements they trigger.
| Component Altered | Triggers | Relevant Code(s) |
|---|---|---|
| Controller Replacement | Phase I/II recall, updated fire service controls, electrical protective devices | Title 8 §3141.2; ASME A17.1 |
| Door System Modification | Compliance with current door reopening force, safety edges, kinetic energy limits | ASME A17.1 §2.13 |
| Drive System Replacement | Terminal stopping devices, overspeed governors, emergency braking updates | ASME A17.1 §2.25, §2.26 |
| Car Enclosure Modification | Updated lighting, communication system, emergency signage and dimensions | ASME A17.1 §2.14; CBC Ch.11B |
| Fire Alarm Integration | Elevator recall and Phase I operation; detector placement confirmation | NFPA 72 §21.4; CBC §3006.5 |
| Sprinkler/Heat Detector Installation | Shunt trip with properly rated heat detector; elevator shutdown logic | NFPA 72 §21.4.2; CBC §3006.5 |
Modernization scopes are subject to case-by-case review by AHJs. Title 8 §3141.2 mandates compliance with Group 4 standards when significant alterations occur.
Elevator Fire Safety Functions Explained
This function returns the elevator to a designated recall floor (typically the lobby) when smoke detectors activate. Required by ASME A17.1 §2.27.3 and Title 8 §3141.2. Smoke detectors must be located in elevator lobbies and the hoistway if sprinklers are present.
This is the firefighter manual override mode activated using a keyed switch inside the elevator car. It allows manual control during emergencies. Required by ASME A17.1 §2.27.3.3 and Title 8 §3141.2.
This symbol is applied to the elevator car operating panel to indicate compliance with firefighter emergency operation. Required following modernization involving control systems or car components. See ASME A17.1 §2.27.9 and CBC §3002.3.1.
FAID (Fire Alarm Initiating Device) detection refers to the requirement for smoke and heat detectors to interface with elevator control for recall and power disconnect. FAIDs include smoke detectors in elevator lobbies, hoistways, and machine rooms, coordinated per NFPA 72 §21.4.
A shunt trip disconnects power to the elevator before sprinkler discharge to protect firefighters and equipment. Must be triggered by heat detector, not the sprinkler. See CBC §3006.5 and NFPA 72 §21.4.2. Detector must be listed, lower temperature-rated, and faster-responding than the sprinkler.
Sprinklers are prohibited in hoistways and machine rooms unless required by local AHJ. If installed, they must be paired with shunt trip and heat detection. See CBC §3006.4 and Title 8 §3021.1 for sprinkler control guidance.
FAQ: Common Questions and Clarifications
Do all elevators require hoistway venting?
No. Hoistway venting is required when the hoistway contains the driving machine (CBC §3003.4). Reduced venting may be allowed if mechanical ventilation is used per §3003.4.4.
What's the hierarchy of codes when there are conflicts?
In California, the hierarchy is:
- California Title 8 Elevator Safety Orders
- California Building Code (CBC) & Fire Code (CFC)
- ASME A17.1/CSA B44 (as adopted)
- NFPA 72, NFPA 13, ASME A17.3 (reference standards)
Does replacing a controller trigger full modernization?
Often yes. Replacing a controller typically triggers Phase I/II recall, signage, and may include updates to safety equipment. See Title 8 §3141.2.
Are ASME A17.3 retroactive in California?
No. ASME A17.3 is not adopted in California but may be used for guidance.
Are there accessibility requirements for elevators?
Yes. Elevators must comply with CBC Chapter 11B for accessibility. This includes call buttons, car controls, handrails, visual and audible indicators, and emergency communication systems.
What are the standards for machine rooms?
Machine rooms must comply with CBC §3006 and Title 8 requirements for access, lighting, temperature, and clearance. No storage is allowed unless separated by a fire-rated partition. Electrical disconnects must be clearly labeled and accessible.
Downloadable References
If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, please reach out to Mark Anthony at mabautis@stanford.edu.