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Existing Elevators put back in use

archer

Registered User
Joined
Feb 4, 2019
Messages
15
Location
virginia
I had this email sent to me and I would like some opinions on how to answer this.

We have been asked to present a proposal to bring the elevators located at the mall back into operations. In doing so I first wanted to check with you to verify if this acceptable being as if they have been out of operation for some years. Will they need to be brought up to current code before proceeding? Or will they be allowed to be put back into operation as they currently are? This effects what direction I need to take and would appreciate any answer you have.
 
So the elevators have not been required the past few years??

Seems like get them running and tested
If no changes
 
The mall has been closed for several years and a potential developer is considering development there.
 
I would say no change in use then get them back in shape. Change in use quite possibly would require updating to current codes.
 
I don't think this is a code issue. Most states have laws about periodic inspections and these are probably past due and would need an elevator inspector before they can use them.
 
They are talking about making it a casino with shops and etc. So I guess the classification would be mixed use.
 
They are talking about making it a casino with shops and etc. So I guess the classification would be mixed use.
Sounds like a change of use... Does your AHJ use the IEBC? May ask the design team and AHJ if structural analysis is going to be required?
 
I agree, I've been the building official for one week and this is a first. I have reached out to the state fire marshal's office and waiting for their opinion. I have a gut feeling that they will say that it just needs to be inspected and any repairs needed will have to be addressed since it was in service prior to the mall closing and also because the mall was built after 1973.
 
Elevators require regular inspections and periodic load tests. If they have been out of operation for a long time the elevator inspector might want to run all the tests they do on a new elevator before approving them.

This wouldn't be in Bristol, would it? Virginia made drastic modifications to the 2015 edition of the Existing Building Code.
 
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