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Elevator Inspection Checklist — CAT1 & CAT5 Tests

NYC elevator inspection checklist for Category 1 (annual) and Category 5 (5-year) tests per Local Law 26. Covers safety devices, hoistway conditions, car equipment, and DOB filing requirements.

NYC Local Law 26 / ASME A17.1Elevator2-4 hours per elevator39 inspection items

General Information

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    Record elevator device number (DOB assigned)
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    Document elevator type (passenger, freight, hydraulic, traction)
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    Record manufacturer, model, and capacity
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    Note number of stops and floors served
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    Verify current operating permit is posted in car
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    Record insurance inspection company and last inspection date

CAT1 Annual Inspection — Machine Room

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    Inspect motor and controller for proper operation
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    Check governor and governor rope condition
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    Verify machine room temperature and ventilation
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    Test emergency power operation if equipped
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    Check oil levels in hydraulic tank (hydraulic elevators)
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    Inspect sheaves and ropes for wear (traction elevators)
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    Verify fire service Phase I and Phase II operation

CAT1 Annual Inspection — Hoistway

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    Inspect door interlocks on all floors for proper engagement
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    Check hoistway door gibs and sills for wear
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    Verify pit conditions (clean, dry, properly lit)
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    Inspect pit stop switch and buffer operation
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    Check traveling cables for damage or wear
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    Verify hoistway ventilation meets code requirements

CAT1 Annual Inspection — Car

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    Test car operating panel buttons and indicators
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    Verify door reopening device (electric eye, safety edge) operation
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    Check emergency lighting and alarm bell operation
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    Test emergency communication (phone or intercom)
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    Inspect car enclosure for damage or missing panels
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    Verify car leveling accuracy at each floor
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    Check handrails and ventilation

CAT5 Five-Year Test — Safety Devices

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    Perform full-load safety test on car safeties
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    Test overspeed governor tripping speed
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    Verify counterweight safeties (if equipped)
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    Test emergency terminal speed limiting device
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    Perform full-speed buffer test
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    Test all safety-related electrical devices
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    Document all test results with measurements

DOB Filing Requirements

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    Complete CAT1 or CAT5 test report form
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    Submit results to NYC DOB within required timeframe
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    Report any unsafe conditions to DOB immediately
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    Document all violations and corrective actions required
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    Schedule follow-up inspection for any outstanding violations
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    Update building compliance records with test results

Use This Checklist Digitally in KomplyOS

Complete inspections on your phone, capture photos, collect signatures, and generate professional reports automatically.

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