Elevator Question
I want to know the reason the architect is not responsible "Shaft and pit dimensions" for as part of their elevator submittal review?
Please give me a explanation.
Thank you,
The 21st and 22nd floors of an existing 25-story office building are being renovated. The primary elevators serving those floors will be replaced with newer, high-speed models.
Which of the following would the architect be responsible for as part of their elevator submittal review? Check the four that apply.
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Shaft and pit dimensions
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Cab finish samples
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Machine room controller
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Hydraulic pump equipment
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Operating panels
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Warranties and maintenance contracts
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CORRECT RESPONSES
Cab finish samples
The architect is to approve the finishes.
Machine room controller
Cable elevators used in high-rise construction will have controller equipment in their machine rooms.
Operating panels
The architect is to verify the locations of hall position indicators, hall buttons, etc.
Warranties and maintenance contracts
The architect is to verify warranties and the warranty period. Maintenance contracts are provided as specified. These documents are a part of closeout submittals.
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Wow... I just asked this question to ChatGPT, and I got this response. Is this correct?
Great question! The reason architects are not responsible for shaft and pit dimensions during the elevator submittal review is because these dimensions are primarily dictated by the elevator manufacturer and structural engineers, rather than the architect. Here’s why:
1. Manufacturer’s Responsibility
Elevator shaft and pit dimensions must comply with the specific requirements of the elevator system being installed. Elevator manufacturers provide precise specifications based on their equipment, which include:
- Shaft width and depth
- Pit depth
- Overhead clearance
- Door openings and tolerances
Since these specifications vary between manufacturers and models, architects typically design the shaft based on preliminary manufacturer data, but the final dimensions are verified by the elevator contractor.
2. Structural and Code Compliance
- Structural engineers ensure the shaft and pit can support loads, seismic forces, and reinforcement needed for the elevator system.
- Building codes (e.g., IBC, ADA, ASME A17.1) have strict requirements for clearances, emergency access, and safety features, which the elevator contractor and structural team must verify.
- Architects coordinate the general layout but do not take responsibility for the precise shaft and pit dimensions, as those are dictated by elevator shop drawings and the manufacturer’s guidelines.
3. Shop Drawing Review vs. Design Responsibility
When reviewing elevator submittals, architects primarily check for coordination issues (e.g., door alignments, aesthetic integration) rather than structural dimensions. The elevator contractor ensures final measurements comply with their system, and any discrepancies are resolved between the structural engineer, general contractor, and elevator supplier.
Conclusion
Architects design the space for the elevator, but do not finalize the shaft and pit dimensions because:
✔️ These are manufacturer-specific requirements.
✔️ The structural team is responsible for ensuring the shaft/pit can withstand forces.
✔️ The elevator contractor is responsible for precise measurements and installation compliance.Let me know if you need further clarification! 😊
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The short answer is that for submittals, the contractor is always the first to review it and is responsible for the dimensions. The architect, however, is responsible for reviewing the design intent, such as finishes, materials, and aesthetics. If the architect notices that something is off, then the architect could contact the contractor to clarify, but we are not responsible for dimensions.
Submittal- contractor reviews and ensures that the information aligns as per the drawings/contract documents. The architect ensures that the design intent is being reached. For example, proper equipment was specified, correct paint colors referenced, and correct finish materials and suppliers are specified.
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This is a good question. Another thing to remember is that the shaft walls are built before the elevator is installed. They are usually masonry or other fire rated material, built free standing. We may have drawn the elevator shaft as 4'-0" x 6'-0" let's say, but in the field it may not be exact. The elevator rep would come out and measure. Realistically, it could be 3'-10" x 6'-0 -1/2" or something. It would not be our position to give these actual dimensions to the elevator company during construction or check them on the submittal.
However, we definitely would have sized this elevator and selected the type of elevator based on the # of occupants of the building, and the type of building, and its height. We also would have designed the lobby dimensions.
Hope this clarifies it for you! I think that answer is 100% correct.
Rebekka Klos, NCARB, B. Arch, M. Ed, ARE Educator
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