Indiana Administrative Code Title 670 - ELEVATOR SAFETY BOARD
Indiana Administrative Code – Title 670: Elevator Safety Board
Title 670 of the Indiana Administrative Code establishes the Elevator Safety Board (ESB) and sets forth the framework for regulating elevators and similar conveyances in the state. The rules under this title are administrative in nature, focusing on safety, inspections, maintenance, and compliance.
1. Purpose of the Elevator Safety Board
The Elevator Safety Board is created to:
Oversee the safe design, installation, operation, and maintenance of elevators, escalators, moving walks, dumbwaiters, and related equipment.
Ensure public safety by reducing risks associated with vertical transportation systems.
Develop and adopt administrative rules, standards, and safety codes to regulate the elevator industry in Indiana.
2. Organization of the Board
The Board typically consists of appointed members with expertise in elevators, engineering, labor, and public safety.
Members may represent different interests: elevator contractors, building owners, elevator inspectors, and the general public.
The Board operates through formal meetings and rulemaking sessions.
3. Authority & Functions
The Elevator Safety Board has authority to:
Adopt Safety Standards – Approve and enforce codes that govern elevator safety practices.
Grant Variances – In special cases, allow exceptions to certain rules if safety is not compromised.
Rulemaking – Develop and amend administrative rules that specify operational requirements.
Appeals & Disputes – Serve as a reviewing body for disputes between elevator companies, inspectors, or building owners.
Education & Guidance – Provide interpretation and clarification of elevator rules.
4. Scope of Regulation
Title 670 applies to a wide range of conveyances, including:
Passenger elevators
Freight elevators
Escalators
Dumbwaiters
Moving walks (e.g., airport conveyors)
Special lifts (such as for disabled access)
5. Installation & Design Oversight
New elevator installations must meet approved design and construction standards.
Plans are subject to review and approval by the board or designated officials.
Equipment must comply with structural, electrical, and safety device requirements.
6. Inspection & Testing
Initial Inspection: Before being placed into service, every elevator must undergo inspection.
Periodic Inspections: Regular inspections are required to confirm ongoing compliance.
Testing of Safety Devices: Brakes, emergency communication systems, door sensors, and other safety mechanisms must be tested.
Inspector Qualifications: Only licensed or approved inspectors may conduct inspections.
7. Maintenance & Operation Requirements
Owners are responsible for routine maintenance and ensuring elevators are safe for daily use.
Maintenance must be performed by qualified elevator mechanics.
A log or record of maintenance and inspections must be kept.
Elevators must display certificates of operation as proof of compliance.
8. Permits, Licensing, and Certification
Contractors and mechanics working on elevators must be properly licensed.
Permits are required for installation, major repairs, or modernization projects.
Certificates of operation are issued only after passing inspections.
9. Enforcement & Penalties
If an elevator is found unsafe, the board (or its designated authority) can order it out of service until corrected.
Violations of Title 670 rules can result in penalties, fines, or suspension of permits.
Serious or repeated violations can lead to license revocation for contractors or mechanics.
10. Variances & Appeals
If strict compliance is impractical but safety can still be maintained, the Board may grant variances.
Building owners or contractors may appeal decisions or enforcement actions before the Board.
11. Recordkeeping & Reporting
Owners must maintain inspection and service records.
Inspectors must file reports with the board after each inspection.
Accident reports involving elevators must be submitted immediately.
✅ In summary:
Indiana Administrative Code Title 670 – Elevator Safety Board provides the regulatory backbone for elevator safety in the state. It governs everything from installation, inspection, and maintenance to licensing, permits, and enforcement. The goal is to ensure elevators and similar systems operate safely, reliably, and in compliance with established safety standards.
RELATED Blog
0 comments