Rising to the Challenge: Ohio Elevates Safety During Elevator and Escalator Safety Week

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Every day, millions of Ohioans ride elevators and escalators without a second thought; however, behind every smooth ride is a team of qualified inspectors working tirelessly to keep these vertical transportation systems safe and operational.

In recognition of Elevator and Escalator Safety Week this week (Nov. 10-14), the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Industrial Compliance is shining a spotlight on the essential role of thorough inspections, regular maintenance, and public awareness in ensuring that Ohio's elevators and escalators operate safely and reliably in buildings across the state.

During Fiscal Year 2025, Qualified Elevator Inspector (QEI)-certified inspectors with the Division's Elevator Section conducted 56,193 individual inspections of 37,976 elevators in Ohio. That number does not include elevators located in the cities of Cleveland or Cincinnati since they each have their own departments that conduct inspections. During that same timeframe, the Division issued 532 new elevator Certificates of Operation.

The Division inspects much more than just elevators and escalators, they also inspect freight lifts, chairlifts, moving walks and even specialized systems inside wind turbines, grain silos, coal mines and smokestacks. Each inspection is carried out with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring every ride in Ohio is as safe as it is smooth.

This work is constant, as inspectors with the Division perform elevator inspections on nine-month intervals to ensure safety and compliance. During these inspections, equipment is reviewed thoroughly to ensure it is working as it should and there is no risk to the public. In the event a safety issue is identified, inspectors remove the elevator from service until the necessary repairs have been made and those repairs have been verified via a follow-up inspection.

"Elevator and Escalator Safety Week is our chance to spotlight the vital role of regular inspections and maintenance in keeping Ohioans safe," said Division Elevator Section Chief Chip Updyke. "When it comes to elevators, safety starts with awareness and regular maintenance, and our inspectors work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure every ride is secure and every system meets the highest safety standards."

Ohioans can review the Division's most recent elevator inspection reports by accessing its online database, which includes all elevators within the State of Ohio under the Division's jurisdiction.

While Division inspectors are responsible for conducting inspections, elevator owners and representatives are responsible for overseeing the maintenance and repairs for any violations. Resources highlighting those responsibilities and processes are available on the Division's website here. In addition, resources for elevator maintenance personnel can be found here.

The Division reminds Ohioans to always follow posted safety guidelines, such as holding handrails, avoiding overcrowding, and reporting any unusual noises or malfunctions to building management immediately.

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About the Division of Industrial Compliance
The Division of Industrial Compliance is part of the Ohio Department of Commerce. The department is Ohio's chief regulatory agency, focused on promoting prosperity and protecting what matters most to Ohioans. We ensure businesses follow the laws that help them create jobs and keep Ohioans safe. To learn more about what we do, visit our website at com.ohio.gov.