When the pit is more than 5' 6" deep, what is required?

When the depth of the pit exceeds 5 feet 6 inches, it is crucial to ensure the safety and accessibility of the elevator system. The requirement for a second pit stop switch is in place to provide an additional level of safety for maintenance personnel or emergency responders who may be working in or near the pit.

Having a second stop switch allows for a quick and reliable way to halt the operation of the elevator from two different locations within the pit, which is particularly important in deeper pits where an incident could pose a greater risk. This redundancy helps prevent accidents and ensures that if the primary switch is inaccessible for any reason, the secondary switch can still be utilized to stop the elevator system effectively.

This safety measure recognizes the increased risks associated with deeper pits, including potential difficulty in accessing the equipment or the possibility of a safety breach. By implementing this requirement, code and standard practices are upheld, ensuring the safety of all personnel involved with elevator maintenance and operations.