The Dangers of Elevator Flooding: Causes, Risks, and Solutions
During a severe storm in Omaha on August 7, 2021, a group of friends found themselves stuck in an apartment elevator as floodwaters came rushing in. Within a matter of minutes, they were neck deep in sewage water with no way out. This Omaha elevator flood story quickly went viral with the group recording and sharing their terrifying experience. Thankfully, they were rescued and are alive and well today.
The urgent reality is that climate change is flooding more elevators - and this occurrence will continue to rise as damage from global heating rapidly increases.
The Serious Impact of a Flooded Elevator
Having a properly functioning elevator is crucial for both commercial and residential properties. In addition to providing accessibility to those who have difficulty using stairs, elevators are essential for transporting goods to different levels.
Nevertheless, elevator pits are susceptible to flooding, just like basements and cellars. When an elevator pit floods, the repercussions can be significantly more expensive than simply draining water from a hole. Flooded elevator pits can have much more catastrophic consequences than one might anticipate.
In short, allowing an elevator pit to flood is not a simple matter. Building owners or managers need to consider it as a potential danger and take necessary measures to prevent it.
How to Prevent Elevator Flooding
As we begin to experience the effects of climate change, the risk of flooding to buildings is steadily increasing. Because elevator pits are typically the lowest point in a building, elevators are the most vulnerable to flooding.
When a storm begins to roll in, elevators need to be protected as floodwaters can permanently damage equipment. Some insurance companies will not pay the entire claim if the client does not send the elevator cab to the second level, leaving the building and business out of service.
Here are ways you can help prevent elevator flooding in your building:
Install Flood Barriers & Flood Panels During a Storm
Flood Risk America’s elevator flood panels are engineered with patented flood seal technology to protect both the elevators and control rooms from rising floodwaters. Each panel is tailor-made to create a customized fit. They are quick and easy to install, taking only 6 minutes to set up - an advantage when you want to protect your building and business from an oncoming storm while staying operational for as long as possible.
Waterproof Your Elevator
Elevator pits are typically constructed in one of two ways: poured cement or brickwork. Poured cement pits involve digging a hole and lining it with concrete to create smooth walls, whereas brickwork pits are constructed similarly to brick buildings. However, over time, both types of pits may develop cracks or gaps, allowing water to seep into the building.
To prevent water seepage, lining the walls with a sheet or bentonite-based membrane can create a buffer between the exterior of the walls. If cracks or gaps appear at any point along the walls, injecting urethane can plug them, allowing them to be refilled or patched with concrete.
Install a Sump Pump Adjacent to the Elevator Pit
Sump pumps are typically installed in a separate sump pit or basin located adjacent to the elevator pit. Despite walls being designed to prevent water seepage, water may still find its way in. Removing it promptly before it stagnates is essential. The sump pit collects any water that enters the elevator pit and pumps it out to a designated drainage area or sewage system. It is important to consult with a professional and adhere to all relevant building codes and regulations when installing a sump pump in an elevator pit.
Check Surrounding Rooms & Hallways For Water Build Up
Water can infiltrate an elevator pit through sources other than its walls, such as elevator doors in lobby areas or external entrances, such as outdoor stairwells in flood-prone buildings.
To prevent flooding, it is important to regularly clean lobbies and elevator hallways to eliminate water buildup. Simple measures such as installing water-absorbent mats at every doorway or having janitorial staff mop up standing water on an hourly basis can significantly reduce the risk of standing water and damage.
In cases where the elevator pit or machine room is situated near external entrances to the basement, such as outdoor stairwells, water may infiltrate during heavy weather. To mitigate this, covering stairwells with awnings and walls will prevent inclement weather from seeping in with other staff or goods deliveries.
Schedule Regular Elevator Maintenance
Cracks and splits are likely to occur over time in the walls of elevator pits, and immediate repair is crucial to prevent water from seeping in. Any holes or gaps should be patched up as soon as possible, and all machinery should be wiped down to prevent rust or mold growth.
In addition to ensuring that all machinery is functioning properly, it is necessary to conduct routine water damage inspections. This includes examining all machinery, doorways, and walls for any signs of water or dampness. Be sure to conduct additional inspections during severe weather warnings and have emergency flood prevention kits readily available.?
Disruption of elevator service can be costly and inconvenient. While some issues are temporary and easily fixed, water damage can lead to expensive and time-consuming repairs. Regular maintenance and emergency plans can and will prevent catastrophic consequences