2024 Brings Increased Adoption of Codes Requiring Video and Two-Way Messaging for Elevator Communications – By Allie Ludlum
As 2024 progresses, the adoption of safety codes mandating video and two-way messaging capabilities for elevator communications is gaining momentum across the United States. At the start of this year, Florida adopted the ASME 2019 Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators in January 2024, setting new standards for emergency communication in elevators throughout the state.
Realcomm Panel to Discuss Code & Technology Updates, Industry Changes
These industry changes will be a topic of discussion at the upcoming Realcomm conference in Florida on June 20, 2024. Daniel Goldstein of Kings III, a leading provider of emergency communications solutions, will be a featured speaker on the “Securing Tomorrow: Integrating AI, Biometrics and Robotics into the Future of Physical Security and Emergency Response” panel, hosted by the conference. Goldstein will share insights on how the company’s CabView solution addresses the evolving code requirements as well as the ever-changing landscape of cyber security in the built environment.
Advancing Accessibility for Resilient Emergency Response
Significant updates to American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) 2019+, International Building Code (IBC) 2018+, and various other statutes, such as California and NYC Building code, now require elevator emergency communication systems to include two-way messaging capability for the hearing and speech impaired, video capability, and display messages indicating help is on the way or onsite. These requirements aim to enhance accessibility, improve situational awareness, and ensure prompt and effective response during emergencies. With an increasing adoption rate continuing throughout 2024, as of now, 75% of the US is enforcing these updates via adoption of one or more of the aforementioned codes.
Enforcement applies when elevators are permitted for new construction or modernization. Of course, many who prioritize life safety may choose to comply regardless of requirements to keep up with the cutting-edge standards. It also may be of best interest to make upgrades to older on non-modernized elevators on the same property to ensure emergency communication system consistency. This could include elevators of a different age or type from the new installation or modernized elevator(s).
Adoption of these codes represents a significant step forward in prioritizing safety and accessibility in the built environment. When addressing these codes, it’s essential to recognize the importance of staying ahead of industry trends and providing solutions that not only meet but exceed these evolving standards with particular proactive attention to how updated requirements with additional data needs affect building security.
Daniel Goldstein- National Product Manager, Kings III
Data & Network Security Vulnerabilities
The newly required messaging and video components will require a separate data connection. So, the question becomes, who provides the data connection and what are the implications? It is encouraged to give some preemptive thought to the connectivity challenges the updated code may present.
While utilizing an existing building network may make sense on the surface, granting a third-party vendor access to the building’s network is an option but unfortunately, even privileged account access has risks and it needs to be under the direct and careful supervision of the IT department. See some expert recommendations below:
Addressing Requirements through Solution Integration
Kings III’s CabView solution is designed to meet the new video and two-way messaging requirements enforced by these code updates. CabView offers a comprehensive elevator video monitoring system that includes two-way messaging, video capability, and display messaging, helping to ensure compliance and peace of mind for property managers and tenants. The innovative CabView features include:
- Two-way messaging capability for the hearing and speech impaired
- Video capability for visual confirmation and assessment
- Display messages indicating help is on the way or onsite
- Compatibility with video and messaging systems from various manufacturers
- A cellular data connection independent of the building’s network (eliminating the security risks and headaches associated with IT departments managing additional life safety devices)
- Kings III’s renowned all-inclusive benefits, including equipment, installation, maintenance, and 24/7 professional emergency monitoring
Preparing for Continued Code Adoption
As more states and jurisdictions adopt these updated codes, the demand for compliant emergency communication solutions in elevators will continue to rise. Those in states that have not yet adopted should familiarize themselves with the recent updates, as upcoming adoption is not a matter of if, but when. Kings III remains committed to supporting the industry’s transition by offering cutting-edge products like CabView and providing expertise in navigating the evolving regulatory landscape.
For more information about Kings III’s emergency communications solutions and the latest code requirements, visit our website.
Allie Ludlum is the Digital Marketing Director at Kings III Emergency Communications. Connect with Allie on LinkedIn.
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