ASME 17.4 pdf free download

ASME 17.4 pdf free download Guide for Emergency Personnel (Includes Evacuation Procedures and Firefighters’ Service Operating Procedures)
SECTION 1.1 INTRODUCTION It is recommended that any evacuation of passengers from elevator cars be performed under the direct supervision of elevator personnel, as their experience and expertise ensure the resourcefulness necessary to cope with the various complex hazards that may arise. However, in the event of an emergency, time may be of the essence in evacuating passengers, and waiting for elevator personnel may be impractical. Under emergency conditions, the passenger evacuation must be performed by personnel who are carefully selected and trained as described in this Guide. Elevator personnel should also follow these procedures. However, due to their knowledge of elevator systems, they may utilize other procedures to safely evacuate passengers (e.g., move the car to a landing to allow egress through the elevator door). CAUTION Newer elevators may not be equipped with an in-car emergency stop switch, so utilizing the mainline disconnect with proper lockout/tagout procedures is extremely important.
SECTION 1.2 RESCUE TEAM ORGANIZATION AND TRAINING
1.2.1 Organization In order to ensure that a rescue by people other than experienced elevator personnel is performed safely, the building management must select and train their employees in the proper evacuation procedures. A rescue team should be organized for each shift, with specific duties assigned to each member. Where this is impractical, the building management should coordinate with the local authorities responsible for rescue operations, such as the police department or fire department. The rescue teams must be similarly organized and trained. Training should always be done with experienced, qualified elevator personnel present. Prior to attempting any rescue, it is imperative that the rescue team has the proper tools and equipment ready for use. It is equally important that they be trained in the proper use of the tools and equipment. Some of the tools and equipment that may be necessary to make a safe rescue are (see Fig. 1.2.1) (a) short extension ladder (when using the top emergency exit, a short extension ladder may be helpful in assisting passengers going over the crosshead and for reaching the floor above the car) (b) collapsible or folding ladder (c) hoistway door-unlocking devices (elevator door interlock release keys) (d) two-way radios or portable radios (e) personnel fall arrest system (f) lifelines (g) forcible entry tools (h) flashlights (i) lockout/tagout equipment (j) tool for poling (pike pole)
1.2.2 Training and Instruction The rescue team should be given training in the proper procedures for evacuating passengers as required by ASME A17.1/CSA B44, requirement 8.6.11.5.4 to prepare them for actual emergency situations that may arise in the elevator operation at every building within their jurisdiction. In training personnel, advantage should be taken of the experience and expertise that may be provided by the elevator maintenance organization servicing the elevator equipment. Rescue drills should be planned to simulate various emergency conditions and should be conducted to determine the effectiveness of the rescue operation and organization. On observation elevators and elevators with nonenclosed hoistways, considerable preplanning may be necessary since conditions vary. Written instructions on the steps to be taken to affect a rescue should be furnished to all personnel designated and trained to perform rescue duties. These instructions must also be in a location known and accessible to the rescue team, where they can be readily referred to during an evacuation, if necessary. These instructions should include the telephone numbers of persons or organizations to be contacted for assistance, e.g., elevator maintenance personnel. The keys neces- sary for elevator evacuation are required by ASME A17.1/CSA B44 to be available to the rescue team. All required keys should be permanently labeled for function.
1.2.3 Lockout/Tagout Procedures Whenever persons are being assisted from a stalled elevator car, adherence to strict lockout/tagout procedures must be followed. The mainline disconnect switch must be turned to the “OFF” position and a lock and tag installed on the disconnect switch in order to prevent anyone from turning the switch to the “ON” position. The mainline disconnect switch is typically located in the elevator machine room when a machine room is provided.