When rescuing persons from an elevator, which action should be performed?

When rescuing persons from an elevator, which action should be performed?

• A. Open hoistway doors using elevator key
• B. Make sure all firefighters entering elevator shaft are wearing proper harnesses
• C. Shut off power to the elevator
• D. Instruct occupants to force the door open

Answer: (C)

The main idea here is to remove the immediate hazards created by an energized or potentially moving elevator before attempting a rescue. Shutting off the power to the elevator is the best action because it stops the car from moving and de-energizes the drive and door mechanisms. With the power isolated, you reduce the risk of the car moving unexpectedly, doors closing on occupants, or electrical shock, and you can proceed with a controlled, safe rescue. Opening hoistway doors with an elevator key before power is cut can still leave the system capable of moving or re-energizing, which creates serious injury risk. Wearing proper harnesses for anyone entering the shaft is essential for fall protection, but it doesn’t address the hazard of a live or moving car until power is shut off. Instructing occupants to force the door open is unsafe and can cause injury or interfere with interlocks and rescue procedures.

The main idea here is to remove the immediate hazards created by an energized or potentially moving elevator before attempting a rescue. Shutting off the power to the elevator is the best action because it stops the car from moving and de-energizes the drive and door mechanisms. With the power isolated, you reduce the risk of the car moving unexpectedly, doors closing on occupants, or electrical shock, and you can proceed with a controlled, safe rescue.

Opening hoistway doors with an elevator key before power is cut can still leave the system capable of moving or re-energizing, which creates serious injury risk. Wearing proper harnesses for anyone entering the shaft is essential for fall protection, but it doesn’t address the hazard of a live or moving car until power is shut off. Instructing occupants to force the door open is unsafe and can cause injury or interfere with interlocks and rescue procedures.