Proper elevator maintenance isn't just about keeping things running — it's a legal obligation under South African law, and a critical safety responsibility for every building owner and facility manager. This guide walks you through how Vector Elevators approaches maintenance, what you can do as a client to extend the life of your system, and the regulations you need to know.
Our Maintenance Process
A structured, transparent process that keeps your elevator safe, compliant, and reliable — from first assessment to ongoing certification.
Site Assessment & Audit
We inspect your elevator system end-to-end — mechanical, electrical, and safety components — to establish a baseline condition and identify any immediate risks.
Tailored Maintenance Plan
Based on traffic, building type, and equipment age, we design a service schedule and contract that fits your operational needs and budget.
Scheduled Service Visits
Certified technicians carry out thorough inspections, lubrication, adjustments, and component testing at the agreed frequency — with genuine parts.
24/7 Emergency Response
Breakdowns don't keep office hours. Our rapid-response team is available around the clock to minimise downtime and keep passengers safe.
Detailed Reporting
After every visit you receive a full service report — findings, work done, parts replaced, and recommendations — so you always know your system's status.
Compliance & Certification
We manage your statutory inspection cycle and ensure your elevator remains fully compliant with South African safety regulations at all times.
Tips for Building Owners & Managers
While professional maintenance is essential, there's a lot you can do between service visits to protect your investment and keep passengers safe.
Keep It Clean
Regularly clean the cabin floor, door tracks, and thresholds. Dirt and debris in door tracks are a leading cause of door faults and uneven operation.
Report Issues Early
Unusual noises, jerky movement, or door problems should be reported immediately. Early intervention prevents minor issues becoming major repairs.
Respect Capacity Limits
Consistent overloading accelerates wear on ropes, brakes, and motors. Ensure capacity signage is visible and occupants are aware of limits.
Test Emergency Systems
Monthly, test the alarm and emergency lighting. Ensure the emergency phone or intercom connects to a monitored line at all times.
Educate Occupants
Display clear instructions for what to do if the elevator stops. The golden rule: stay calm, use the alarm or phone, and wait for help.
Keep Records
Maintain a logbook of all service visits, repairs, and inspections. This is a legal requirement and essential for compliance audits.
What to Do If Someone Is Trapped
Passenger entrapment is the most common elevator emergency. Ensure these steps are displayed inside every cabin:
- Stay calm — the cabin is safe and has ventilation. Do not attempt to climb out.
- Press the alarm button to alert building staff or security.
- Use the emergency phone or intercom to call for help.
- Wait for a qualified technician — never force the doors open.
- If no response, call the building's emergency number or Vector's 24/7 line.
Important: Only trained, certified personnel should perform a rescue release. Untrained attempts can cause serious injury.
Elevator Rules & Regulations in South Africa
The South African elevator industry is governed by a framework of legislation and national standards designed to protect public safety. Understanding these regulations is essential for every building owner.
Occupational Health & Safety Act (Act 85 of 1993)
The overarching legislation governing workplace safety in South Africa. The Driven Machinery Regulations (DMR) under this Act specifically regulate lifts, escalators, and passenger conveyors — placing legal duties on owners and users to ensure safe operation.
- Elevator owners must ensure equipment is safe and properly maintained.
- Only competent, qualified persons may install, repair, and maintain lifts.
- Records of maintenance and inspections must be kept and made available to inspectors.
SANS 1545 — Lifts and Escalators
The South African National Standard that sets the technical and safety requirements for the installation, operation, and maintenance of electric and hydraulic lifts. It aligns with international standard EN 81, adapted for South African conditions.
- Defines safety requirements for design, construction, and installation.
- Specifies maintenance and inspection obligations for building owners.
- Covers emergency operations, including entrapment rescue procedures.
Statutory Inspections (Annual)
Every elevator in South Africa must undergo a periodic statutory inspection by an Approved Inspection Authority (AIA) — typically every 12 months. This is a legal requirement, not optional.
- Inspection must be conducted by a SANAS-accredited inspection body.
- A Certificate of Compliance or report is issued after each inspection.
- Any defects identified must be rectified within the prescribed timeframe.
SANS 10400 — National Building Regulations
The National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act governs building construction, including requirements for vertical access in multi-storey buildings and accessibility for persons with disabilities.
- Buildings above certain heights must provide elevator access.
- Accessibility requirements (SANS 10400-S) mandate lifts for disabled access in public buildings.
- Fire and emergency evacuation requirements apply to lift installations.
Certificate of Compliance & Logbook
Building owners must maintain a valid Certificate of Compliance for each elevator and keep a detailed logbook recording all maintenance, repairs, and inspections.
- The logbook must be available on-site for inspection by authorities.
- Certificates must be renewed after each statutory inspection.
- Failure to comply can result in the elevator being shut down by authorities.
Your Compliance Responsibility
As a building owner or facility manager, the legal responsibility for elevator safety and compliance rests with you — not the maintenance provider. This means:
- Ensuring annual statutory inspections are booked and completed on time.
- Maintaining a valid Certificate of Compliance and making it available to authorities.
- Keeping a complete, up-to-date logbook of all maintenance and repairs.
- Acting promptly on any defects or safety concerns identified during inspections.
- Using only certified, competent persons for installation, repair, and maintenance.
Vector Elevators takes this burden off your shoulders — we manage the entire compliance cycle for you, from scheduling inspections to maintaining records, so you're always audit-ready.