4705.1 Elevator System

The elevator system shall comply with the general requirements of Sections 4705.1.1 through 4705.1.8.

Except for the designated main floor, all elevators shall open into elevator vestibules that are constructed with walls, floors and ceilings having a fire-resistance rating of not less than one hour.

All vestibule openings other than those for elevator doors and stairway enclosures shall be protected with automatic-closing fire assemblies having not less than a 45-minute fire-resistance rating, actuated by "combustion products"-type smoke detectors.

Each elevator vestibule shall be provided with an approved smoke detector located on the lobby ceiling. The elevator controls shall be designed so that the activation of a lobby smoke detector will cause all elevators serving that landing or floor to return nonstop to the designated main floor and be under manual control only.

Elevators with an alternate floor recall feature shall also have an approved smoke detector in the designated main floor elevator lobby. Activation of this smoke detector would recall the elevator to an alternate floor designated by the Chief.

There shall be provided for Fire Department use in case of any emergency, a key for the main floor switch and for each fire control elevator and emergency elevator. These keys shall be readily accessible and in a location approved by the Chief.

A permanent sign shall be installed adjacent to the elevator call station on each floor reading, "IN CASE OF FIRE USE STAIRWAY FOR EXIT. DO NOT USE ELEVATOR."

At least one elevator in each bank of elevators shall be available for fire emergency service and shall have its controls designed so that key switches located in the building control station/fire command center will recall said elevator or elevators to the designated main floor. The elevator or elevators shall be interconnected with the standby power. This standby power shall be transferable to any other elevator in the bank and shall be capable of operating the elevator with a full load.

Installation, alteration and major repair of the items listed in Sections 4705.1.1 through 4705.1.3 shall be performed under permit of the Department of Building and Safety, when such permit is required.