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Sedgwick County adopts 2022 elevator and escalator safety code with new lighting, pit and cyber rules
Summary
After a public hearing and staff briefing, the county adopted the 2022 A17.1 elevator and escalator safety code with local amendments addressing hoistway lighting, pit-ladder interlocks, flood sensors and cybersecurity requirements for internet-connected systems.
Sedgwick County commissioners voted to adopt the 2022 edition of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers A17.1 safety code for elevators and escalators, including local amendments described by county code staff.
Chris Laber, speaking for the Metropolitan Area Building and Construction Division, told commissioners: "As stated, we're requesting adoption of the 2022 safety code for elevators and escalators in our jurisdiction." He outlined four practical changes that drove the decision: added hoistway lighting with switches at the top and bottom, a safety interlock for fixed pit ladders, new flood-detection requirements where pits are in flood-prone areas, and allowances (with specifications) for emergency radio and other equipment to be installed in hoistways. Laber also said the code now includes requirements for cybersecurity when elevators provide remote interaction or internet connectivity.
Commissioners asked how the county would verify cybersecurity compliance; Laber said staff would accept certifications from engineers and manufacturers rather than performing technical penetration testing. During public comment, Andrew Crane of Guiding Paws urged accessibility improvements including braille and voice annunciation in elevator controls.
The motion to adopt the code passed on a roll-call vote. The board and staff noted the adoption applies to new installations and most changes are not retroactive for existing elevators already in service or under design.
