Your Elevators and Disaster Preparedness: How to improve safety and protect your Elevators During a Natural Disaster

By Jeremiah Potter

When a natural disaster strikes, whether it’s a hurricane, flood, earthquake, or wildfire, elevators are among the building systems most at risk. Failing to account for elevator systems in your emergency planning can lead to safety hazards, serious equipment damage, and delayed recovery efforts.

If you own or manage a building with elevators, integrating elevator-specific procedures into your existing disaster preparedness plan is essential. Doing so helps safeguard building occupants, support emergency response efforts, and prevent avoidable risks during and after a disaster.

Why It Matters

Elevators rely on sensitive electrical and mechanical systems that can be severely impacted by water, power loss, or seismic activity. Including elevator procedures in your overall emergency response ensures:

  • Safer evacuation and rescue efforts

  • Better protection for passengers and staff

  • Faster recovery and return to service

  • Improved coordination with emergency personnel

6 Elevator Considerations for Your Disaster Plan

1. Document Elevator-Specific Procedures

Your building’s emergency response plan should include:

  • Roles and responsibilities for elevator shutdown and reactivation

  • Emergency contacts, including your elevator service provider

  • Steps for securing elevator equipment

  • Internal communication protocols for staff and tenants

Make sure these elevator-specific procedures are reviewed regularly and integrated into your broader disaster planning efforts.

2. Shut Down Elevators Safely Before a Storm or Flood

Before a hurricane or severe weather event:

  • Park elevators at the top floor or above anticipated flood levels

  • Coordinate with your elevator service provider to shut off main power at the disconnect switch

  • Lock the system to prevent use during the disaster

These steps can help prevent catastrophic damage to hoistway equipment, cab interiors, and control systems.

3. Protect Equipment from Water Intrusion

Flooding is one of the most common causes of elevator damage. To minimize risk:

  • Test existing sump pumps in elevator pits and ensure they’re functioning properly

  • Seal pits and check for water intrusion points

  • Install or maintain flood barriers around machine room doors and other vulnerable areas

Even minimal water exposure can lead to significant electrical and mechanical failures.

4. Evaluate Backup Power and Emergency Lowering Systems

If your building has an emergency or standby generator:

  • Confirm if your elevator/s are connected to backup power for first responder or emergency use. If multiple elevators, determine which elevators will operate on backup power.

  • Test the generator under load conditions regularly

  • If backup power isn’t available, consider installing battery lowering systems that can assist with safely evacuating trapped passengers

These measures are especially critical for hospitals, senior living communities, and high-occupancy residential buildings.

5. Communicate With Tenants and Staff in Advance

Strong communication is critical before and during a disaster. Ensure:

  • Tenants are notified of elevator shutdowns and expected downtime

  • Signage is posted near elevator banks in advance of the event

  • Alternate evacuation plans are in place for occupants with mobility needs

Include communication templates in your emergency plan to streamline coordination.

6. Schedule an Elevator Inspection Before Reuse

Never restart an elevator system after a natural disaster without a licensed elevator contractor performing a full inspection. Damage may not be visible but can compromise safety.

Inspections at minimum should include a check of:

  • Control panels

  • Cables and sheaves

  • Safety systems

  • Electrical wiring

  • Hydraulic and oil line components

Prompt inspections also support compliance with local safety regulations and ensure your equipment is safe to operate.

Be Proactive: Prepare Before the Next Event

Disaster preparedness isn't just about protecting property, it’s about protecting people. Elevators play a critical role in emergency response and building safety. By preparing your elevator systems as part of your overall emergency planning, you help reduce risk, support occupant safety, and ensure a more resilient recovery.

Need Support?

If you’re unsure where to start, schedule a disaster-readiness assessment with your elevator consultant. A proactive inspection can identify vulnerabilities, and help keep your building and its occupants safe.

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