Technology
Elevating Devices
Overview
Technical Safety BC oversees the safety of elevators, escalators, moving walkways, dumbwaiters, lifts, and construction hoists in accordance with the Safety Standards Act and the Elevating Devices Safety Regulation.
Key Statistics
158
incidents reported to us.
52
injuries reported to us.
2,979
inspections (physical assessments).
Incidents
In 2018 the number of incidents involving elevating devices reported to us increased over previous years. The category under assessment refers to incidents reported to Technical Safety BC, but which were still under investigation at year-end.
There were five major incidents, three of which were related to escalator step pile-ups. One involved an overheated elevator motor that got hot and started to smoke, and one involved a component failure which caused uncontrolled descent of a hoist.
Injuries
The number of injuries reported to us increased over last year. It's important to note that we receive injury reports and descriptions from operators or first responders at the time of, or immediately following, the incident. Injuries may develop after the initial reports were made to us and the long-term effects of a resultant injury may not be recorded as part of our investigation.
Permits
In 2018, there were 1,758 installation permits (including those related to modifications of existing equipment) and 22,922 active operating permits for elevating devices.
Inspections
Technical Safety BC safety officers completed 2,979 physical assessments (inspections) of elevating devices equipment in 2018. Those assessments are rated as follows:
