Fireman system in an elevator or lift

What is fireman lift?

A fireman's elevator system, also known as firefighter's elevator or fire service mode, is a specialized operation mode designed to facilitate the safe and efficient movement of firefighters and their equipment during emergency situations, particularly in high-rise buildings. These elevators are equipped with features and controls that differ from standard passenger elevators to ensure their reliability during fires and emergencies. Here's a detailed description of how a fireman's elevator system works:

Key Features and Working Principles of fireman lift:-

1. Access Control:- Fireman's elevators are typically accessed through a special key switch or a control panel located in a secure area, such as the building's lobby on ground floor, or the firefighter's staging area. Authorized personnel, usually firefighters, use this access to activate the fireman's elevator.

2. Exclusive Use:- When activated, the fireman's elevator is reserved exclusively for use by firefighters during emergency situations. Passengers and non-emergency personnel are not permitted to use these elevators, ensuring that they remain available for critical rescue and firefighting operations.

3. Phase I and Phase II Operation:-

Phase I :- In Phase I, the elevator is recalled to the designated landing (often the ground floor) and held with its doors open. This allows firefighters to access the elevator without waiting for its arrival.

Phase II: - Once inside the elevator, the firefighter selects the desired floor, and the elevator operates in Phase II, bypassing other calls ( LOP CALL ) and stopping only at the selected floors.

4. Non-Stop Operation:- Fireman's elevators are designed for non-stop operation. They do not respond to other passenger requests or calls ( LOP CALL ) during Phase II operation, ensuring that the elevator is available for firefighting tasks without interruption.

5. Emergency Power:- Fireman's elevators are often equipped with backup power systems to ensure they remain operational in case of a power failure due to a fire or other emergencies.

6. Firefighter Controls:- The control panel inside the fireman's elevator car includes features such as Phase I and Phase II buttons, stop and hold functions, and firefighter recall functions. This control panel allows firefighters to operate the elevator efficiently during rescue and evacuation operations. In modern elevator Phase II operation control by normal COP located in car not extra control panel. Phase I operation controll by one selector switch installed on ground floor cover by glass in emergency we have need to break glass for accessing control switch.

7. Firefighter Intercom: - The fireman's elevator is equipped with a two-way communication system, typically an intercom, which enables firefighters to communicate with building management, security personnel, or other firefighters in the building.

8. Smoke Detection and Safety Features:- Fireman's elevators may incorporate smoke detectors and safety features to protect against the entry of smoke or fire into the elevator hoistway. This may include smoke-tight doors at the elevator lobbies.

9. Certification and Compliance:- Fireman's elevator systems must adhere to local building codes, fire safety regulations, and standards set by authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs). Regular inspections and testing ensure that the system is in proper working order.

In the event of a fire, the fireman's elevator is a critical tool for rapid access to different floors, the transport of firefighting equipment, and the evacuation of building occupants when necessary. It offers firefighters a controlled and reliable means of vertical transportation during emergency situations, increasing the effectiveness of firefighting and rescue operations in tall buildings.