If your elevator modernization project includes work within the elevator hoistway (often called the elevator shaft), be aware that current fire alarm codes may require changes to the smoke and heat detection methods used to protect the elevator.
Beginning with the 2019 edition of NFPA 72, fire alarm initiating devices, such as smoke and heat detectors, installed inside an elevator hoistway must be accessible for inspection, testing, and maintenance from outside the hoistway. The requirement helps improve technician safety by reducing the need to enter the hoistway or ride on top of an elevator car during routine maintenance.
As a result, an elevator modernization or replacement of existing devices may trigger current requirements, depending on the code edition adopted by the local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). In those cases, traditional spot-type smoke and heat detectors located at the top of the hoistway may not meet the accessibility requirements for the new installation.
Depending on the building, your fire protection contractor may recommend alternative detection methods that can be serviced from outside the hoistway, including:
Aspirating Smoke Detection (ASD): Continuously samples air from the hoistway through small sampling pipes while the detector unit is mounted in an accessible location outside the hoistway.
Remote-access spot detector assemblies: Specially designed installations that allow testing, maintenance, and replacement without entering the hoistway.
Linear heat detection: In applications requiring heat detection, linear heat detection cable, can provide the required protection while allowing testing and connection points to remain accessible.
These solutions often require additional design, equipment, coordination with the elevator contractor, and fire alarm programming beyond what is included in a standard elevator modernization contract.
Because these requirements can affect both the scope and cost of an elevator modernization project, it’s important to address hoistway detection early in the planning process. Before work begins:
Confirm which edition of NFPA 72 has been adopted by the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).
Engage a qualified fire protection contractor early in the planning process to evaluate the existing hoistway detection.
Budget for potential upgrades to smoke or heat detection methods if the existing devices are not accessible from outside the hoistway.
Coordinate closely between the elevator contractor and fire alarm contractor to avoid delays during construction and final acceptance testing.
Addressing these requirements during project planning helps prevent costly change orders, inspection delays, and unexpected project extensions while ensuring the elevator and fire alarm systems comply with current life safety codes.
If you’re planning an elevator modernization, our fire alarm team can review your existing detection and help you understand what may be required based on your project and locally adopted codes. Get in touch with a fire alarm expert.
The information provided is for general informational purposes only. Every fire protection system is unique, with specific inspection, testing, and maintenance requirements determined by system type, manufacturer specifications, building use, and local regulations. Consult a qualified fire protection professional or your local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) to ensure compliance with applicable standards. Century Fire Protection assumes no liability for actions taken based on this content.