Indian elevator installations previously followed IS14665. This has now been superseded by IS17900 - Safety Rules, which incorporates modern safety and design requirements aligned with ISO 8100-1.
To allow the industry sufficient time for adaption, a transition period had been granted through a Gazette notification. Following this period, all new elevator installations must comply with IS17900, including its updates provisions for fireman's (firefighter) lifts.
Fireman's Lift Requirements Under IS17900 Part1 (Clause 5.12.5.2.1)
For buildings of height 60m and above, the standard introduces detailed safety requirements.
Key highlights include:
Minimum Loading Capacity
- The fireman's lift must support at least 1000kg, and floor area not less than 2.35 sqm.
Electrical Equipment Protection
- Equipment within 1000mm of walls with landing doors must be housed in enclosures rated at IPX3 as per IS/IEC 60529, or be protected against water droplets and water splashes.
- Switchgear placed less than 1000mm above the pit floor requires IP67 as per IS/IEC 60529 protection. Additionally, the lowest lamp and any socket outlets must be at least 500mm above the highest possible water level in the pit.
Pit Water Mitigation Measures
- There must be a provision to ensure water does not exceed the fully compresses car buffer height.
- Equipments liable to malfunction must be shielded from rising water levels.
Fire-Protected Lobbies
- Each landing entrance must have a fire-protected lobby. The exit must be through a self-closing, smoke-stop door with 1-hour fire resistance.
Alternate Power Source
- Fire lifts must have a backup power supply with an automatic changeover switch. Wiring must be fire-resistant.
Command Centre Integration (Clause 5.12.5.2.2)
- Buildings must include a Fire Command Centre (FCC) or Building Management System (BMS) room.
- Each lift lobby must have CCTV coverage, with feed displayed in the FCC/BMS for real-time monitoring and operational oversight.
Why This Matters
Enhanced Safety for Occupants and Firefighters
- The rigorous IP protection ensures critical equipment remains functional under water exposure - Common during firefighting.
- Fire-protected lobbies and one-hour doors help shield occupants and firefighters from smoke and flames during evacuation.
Regulatory Alignment and Future-Proofing
- Occupations must move swiftly toward IS17900 compliance to avoid delays in elevator approvals or licensing.
- Modern systems featuring fire-resistant wiring and CCTV integration elevate operational reliability and safety.
Competitive Edge for Consultants and Manufacturers
- Offering IS17900 - compliant solutions positions you ahead of regulatory deadlines and elevates trust with clients.
- It shows proactive alignment with world-class safety norms and rising international standards.
What to Do Next
- Manufacturers and integrators must update specifications, components, and installation practices to meet IS17900 requirements.
- Consultants and building owners should verify compliance with detailed checking during proposals, audits and installations.
- Review documentation such as design reports, compliance certificates, and installation checklists against the new clauses.
The transition to IS17900 isn't just a regulatory update - it's a strategic opportunity to enhance safety, compliance, and trust in the vertical transport industry.
At Heelag Elevator and Escalator Consultancy, we emphasize that elevator safety is not just a choice but also a legal responsibility. As per Lift and Escalator Act of several states, it is mandatory to get your elevator inspected/audited by an authorized third party.
Getting your elevator audited by Heelag ensures:
Full Safety Compliance
Detailed quality checks
Peace of mind for owners and passengers
Your Safety is our priority. Don't compromise - Schedule you audit today.
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