Canada has immense skyscrapers; given the substantial foot traffic in these structures, elevators are the primary transportation mode. They shuttle passengers between different levels, highlighting the need for safer vertical mobility.

The number of elevator-related incidents is twice the total count of elevators in Canada. Ensuring the safety of the passengers within the elevator cabin becomes paramount.

Consequently, the ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) regulations now mandate strict compliance with specific guidelines to enhance elevator safety, focusing on the well-being of all passengers, including those with hearing and speech impairments. 

These guidelines ensure thefts and incidents such as elevator entrapment are swiftly identified and promptly addressed, all within seconds!

This blog aims to unravel the intricacies of these ASME guidelines. Furthermore, it explores the effectiveness of Remote video surveillance in successfully implementing these safety measures in elevators. 

Additionally, we will delve into the top ten advantages of employing a top-notch video Monitoring system in elevators and how your business can capitalize on these benefits. 

But wait, what exactly do these ASME guidelines entail? What are the specific requirements, and how can we ensure their genuine implementation? Let’s look at these guidelines to gain a better understanding.

Revised Asme Elevator Guidelines

The updated ASME elevator guidelines are a game-changer for individuals with hearing or speech impairments, and their significance cannot be emphasized enough. 

These revised guidelines now mandate that all elevators must be equipped with:

• A camera with video capability that gives the operator a complete view of the cabin.
• A touchscreen interface for a two-way messaging system is essential to support speech and hearing-impaired individuals during emergencies.
• A call button for assistance, which is answered by an authorized operator 24/7 as automated messages are no longer acceptable; real-time communication is necessary.
• A message “Help is on the way” will be displayed until assistance arrives.

This combination ensures precise visual monitoring of the elevator cabin and facilitates effective two-way messaging, specially assisting those with speech and hearing impairments.

Merely installing a camera, intercom, and two-way messaging capability isn’t sufficient. What truly enables the effective implementation of enhanced and precise elevator monitoring is when these devices are seamlessly connected to a remote monitoring system.

This also aligns with the ASME guideline, which mandates 24/7 live assistance, as automated voice systems are no longer allowed.

It’s not just about recognizing the problem; it’s about swiftly finding the solution. The highly trained remote operators are vigilant when responding to such incidents, ensuring they work efficiently and effectively to identify and promptly address the issue. 

So, what exactly is remote elevator video monitoring, and how does this system work? Understanding how remote operators ensure elevator safety for every person, every time, is crucial!

What Is Remote Elevator Video Monitoring?

To better grasp the following ten benefits of remote video monitoring in elevators, it is first essential to understand how remote video monitoring works in an elevator.

How Remote Elevator Video Monitoring Works:

When a passenger is distressed, pressing the call button initiates an instant connection to the security operations center. A dedicated operator receives the call and obtains specific details, including the elevator cabin’s location and number. 

The operator vigilantly observes the situation through the camera located inside the elevator’s cabin and promptly intervenes. The latter communicates with the passenger using text displayed on the touchscreen intercom within the elevator.

The client, that is the building manager or owner, and the remote monitoring service provider establish a predefined set of questions before implementing the solution. This ensures that the assistance provided is tailored to the specific needs of each client’s business.

Passengers can easily respond by touching the screen, either with a “yes” or “no.” Once the response is received at the operations center, the remote operator assists the passenger and ensures that help is on the way.

All audio and video data from this interaction is securely stored in the client’s account for future reference.

You must be curious about how these devices and remote video monitoring enhance elevator security. And I’m sure you’re quite eager to learn about those ten benefits that will take elevator security to a new level. Let’s dive in .

Elevator Video Monitoring Benefits

1. Enhanced Elevator Cabin Security

Elevator Surveillance Camera as a Deterrent

The presence of a surveillance camera within the elevator is a clear indicator of surveillance. Due to the limited space inside the elevator cabin, it’s highly noticeable.

This camera serves as a deterrent, discouraging potential wrongdoers and thieves from engaging in unlawful activities. It forces individuals to reconsider before participating in any illicit behavior.

Emergency Intercoms for Rapid Response

These elevators are equipped with intercom systems that include emergency call buttons. Passengers can press these buttons in the event of an accident or if they become trapped inside the elevator.

When such an alarm is activated, the elevators establish a connection with a remote monitoring center and passengers receive help and support within seconds.

Swift Intervention and Enhanced Safety

This rapid response enables authorities to intervene promptly and provide assistance when necessary.

This capability can be a lifesaver, ensuring quick response times for rescue operations, minimizing risks, and enhancing overall safety.

2. Efficient Elevator Monitoring Technology

The advantages of remote video monitoring go beyond just helping people in challenging situations. It’s about how swiftly we can spot, understand, and respond to emergencies.

This process relies on technologies like security cameras, touchscreen intercoms, and remote operators who actively manage various situations. Let’s have a quick look at how they function:

Dome Cameras

Elevators are typically equipped with dome cameras, ideal for such environments. These cameras offer a superb 360-degree view, providing a crystal-clear image of the events inside the elevator and determining the appropriate response.

Touchscreens Intercom

The touchscreen intercoms within the elevators are interactive display panels seamlessly integrated into the elevator’s control system.

These screens provide passengers with various functionalities, such as choosing their desired floor, managing the elevator doors, and utilizing the emergency CALL button. 

Additionally, they include a “yes” or “no” button for individuals who are speech or hearing impaired when engaging in two-way communication with the operator.

The Trained Remote Operators

The vigilant operators, who are specially trained to assess situations and respond accordingly swiftly, greatly benefit from these dome cameras, ideally mounted at 8 feet.

This setup ensures they have a comprehensive view of the elevator and can take immediate, informed actions as needed.

3. Remote Monitoring of Elevators

What’s truly impressive is that when a passenger in distress presses the elevator’s call button, the remote operations center takes care of monitoring the situation.

This ensures that immediate assistance can be provided to the passenger, whether it is two-way non-verbal communication through text messages or dispatching on-site personnel. 

The remote operations center’s quick response time and ability to handle emergencies effectively make it an invaluable feature of modern elevator systems.

These centers frequently provide mobile apps for download and online portals that owners and managers can access to review incidents and see how the monitoring center’s staff managed them.

The great thing about this setup is that you can view the recorded video after the incident has taken place from a remote location.

To fully enjoy the advantages of remote monitoring, it’s crucial to partner with a top-notch remote operating center. 

If you’re wondering about the key criteria for selecting the finest remote monitoring center, we’ve got you covered with an informative blog that delves into the ins and outs of remote surveillance and how it operates, offering you valuable guidance.

Our blog now makes it incredibly easy to find an excellent monitoring center. We’ve covered all the details of 10 remote video monitoring centers in Canada. Give it a read!

 4. Transparent Reporting

Remote video monitoring ensures transparent reporting, meaning that when incidents occur and are swiftly handled, recorded video footage and audio recordings of these elevator cabin incidents are accessible for review and reference.

This information assists building managers or owners in making informed decisions regarding elevator maintenance, safety, and performance.

It aids in understanding the elevator’s condition, identifying any issues that may have caused the incident, and determining the appropriate actions to resolve them. 

The remote monitoring center stores event reports directly in the client’s account, ensuring they are easily accessible for future reference.

These reports are not only valuable for reviewing incidents but are also instrumental in assisting police investigations and providing evidence to counter false liability claims.

5. Compliance With Asme Guidelines

Utilizing a security operations center like Sirix, which offers round-the-clock remote video monitoring with skilled security operators, allows buildings with elevators to easily adhere to the new ASME guidelines. 

This provides building owners with a straightforward way to meet ASME requirements while ensuring top-notch security and rapid emergency response.

High-quality remote video monitoring centers showcase their compliance with ASME guidelines, which is crucial for avoiding potential legal issues and fines in the future.

Being in alignment with ASME guidelines not only guarantees regulatory compliance but also signifies a dedication to promptly assisting passengers in distress.

Remote video monitoring is managed by attentive operators with specialized training, enabling them to address incidents with near-perfect accuracy. These operators swiftly assess situations in real-time, fostering a safer and enhanced environment for all involved.

6. Prompt Response By Trained Operators

The ASME guidelines can be effectively implemented through remote video monitoring. The reason behind this is that when an alarm goes off, one of the most intriguing and vital aspects of elevators comes into play: the operators’ quick response.

Remote monitoring allows skilled operators to react swiftly in emergencies, effectively communicating and strictly following standard operating procedures.

Remote operators are on alert throughout emergencies to guarantee uninterrupted security. They are adept in managing diverse situations, showcasing particular expertise in touchscreen communication and evaluating live videos effectively.

Their technical proficiency ensures quick and decisive actions, amplifying passenger safety. The operators’ role extends beyond immediate response; they continue to offer support until help arrives at the elevator cabin.

7. Elevator Monitoring 24/7

Compliance with the ASME guideline, which mandates 24/7 live authorized operator responses to all elevator calls, is seamlessly achievable through partnering with remote monitoring centers. These centers boast a team of security operators available around the clock, ensuring that every elevator call is promptly addressed.

Therefore, remote monitoring centers emerge as the optimal solution for adhering to ASME’s updated standards, ensuring both efficiency and reliability in elevator operation and safety.

In certain scenarios, surveillance cameras are operational non-stop, capturing footage 24/7, every day of the year. However, in other buildings, the recording system is activated only when an alarm is triggered.

In these instances, the cameras begin recording the moment an issue is detected and continue until the situation is resolved or until help arrives on-site. This tailored approach ensures efficient use of resources while maintaining optimal security levels.

Sirix remote operators undergo thorough training to assess situations effectively and handle emergency scenarios in accordance with established standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Incorporating elevator video monitoring into your security strategy can significantly enhance both the safety of your premises and the level of customer service.

8. Blessing For Hearing And Speech-impaired

The new ASME regulation is a wonderful development for individuals with hearing and speech impairments. It provides them with extra assurance that their elevator journeys will be safe and secure.

In the event of an emergency, such as a slip and fall or being trapped in an elevator, this regulation ensures that help is just a touch away.

When passengers encounter an emergency, they can simply press the Call button as shown in the above image of an intercom placed in an elevator. 

This action initiates a call to a remote monitoring center where trained operators are ready to respond promptly. These operators use real-time camera feeds to assess the situation and take immediate action if necessary.

The vigilant operator will continue to monitor via live video feed and send messages through the touchscreen interface. The passenger can then respond with a simple “yes” or “no” option on the touchscreen.

Throughout this process, the operator will keep the passenger engaged and informed until the necessary assistance arrives promptly.

9. Advantageous For Every Industry

Video monitoring benefits various industries, whether large shopping malls, bustling offices, condominiums, parking garages, or transportation hubs. It provides exceptional customer service and enhances safety and security.

Elevator video monitoring is ideal in commercial buildings where elevators see high foot traffic. This technology is essential for ensuring safety and compliance as it allows for real-time monitoring of elevator activities.

For condominiums, cameras in elevators are a valuable asset. They can detect loiterers and swiftly respond to emergencies, thus elevating the overall security and well-being of the condo residents.

Parking garages, often in dimly lit areas, can benefit significantly from elevator video monitoring. This technology ensures that every person who parks or retrieves their car can do so confidently, knowing that their trips will be safe and enjoyable and that no one will be left unattended in a desperate situation.

10. Customizable Prompts

The remote operators follow predefined prompts agreed upon with the client when handling situations, effectively establishing these as the standard operating procedures. These tailored text prompts are crucial for ensuring precision during emergencies. 

It’s important to note that the ASME guidelines explicitly prohibit using automated texts when responding to emergencies, emphasizing the need for personalized and human-driven communication. Thus, remote monitoring enables clear and articulate, customizable prompts.

FAQs:

What is remote elevator video monitoring?

Remote elevator monitoring involves overseeing and addressing alarms triggered from a distant location. When a distressed passenger presses the call button, the call is routed to a remote control center where a trained operator gains access to a live video feed and provides assistance to the passenger through verbal communication or, if necessary, through a touchscreen interface, particularly for passengers who are hearing or speech impaired.

What is elevator monitoring?

It is continuously monitoring the status of elevators in any building around the clock. This approach enables you to collect vital information about the elevator’s performance, detect technical problems, and take action in situations, like individuals getting stuck inside.

Why do elevators have cameras?

Elevator security cameras serve as both a deterrent to criminal activity and a tool to guarantee the highest level of safety within your building.

Which camera is appropriate for the elevator?

Dome cameras are preferred for elevators due to their compact size and ability to provide a 360-degree view of the entire elevator cabin.

Why is elevator video monitoring important?

Ensuring the reliable operation of your elevator’s video and audio monitoring systems is crucial for your benefit and the safety of everyone who utilizes them.

Fundamental components such as call buttons, two-way communication, and cameras help your building remain compliant with regulations, establish reliable communication, and offer peace of mind.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, modern elevator video monitoring offers many benefits that enhance safety, security, and efficiency in today’s buildings. It begins by bolstering security through visible surveillance, serving as a potent deterrent against illicit activities.

Quick incident response ensures emergencies are addressed promptly, in compliance with ASME guidelines.

Furthermore, elevator video monitoring extends its benefits to individuals with hearing and speech impairments, guaranteeing timely assistance.

These advantages are versatile, benefiting a wide range of industries, and are complemented by customizable prompts for precise emergency responses.

Take advantage of the benefits of modern elevator video monitoring. Elevate your building’s safety and security with us – reach out now!