Part 3: Audible/Visual Notification Requirements

Part 3: Audible/Visual Notification Requirements

đź”” Part 3: Audible/Visual Notification Requirements

Series Part 3 of 8: Houston 3003.4 vs. ASME A17.1 – Pit Flood Detection

After flood detection, timely notification is key. Let’s explore how Houston 3003.4 and ASME A17.1 handle audible and visual alerts.

📢 Houston 3003.4

“Shall activate a visual or audible notification to the building’s management.”

🎯 ASME A17.1
Requires both visual and audible signals—inside the cab and at inspection points, with specific requirements for:
• Font size (0.25″)
• Color (red)
• Signal duration (minimum 30 seconds)

🔍 Summary:
Houston’s code keeps it simple for building managers:

  • Allows visual OR audible signal
  • Doesn’t specify duration, font size, or exact placement
  • Prioritizes installation flexibility

A17.1, by contrast, includes detailed specs to ensure visibility for passengers, mechanics, and building management—aiming for a more comprehensive audio and visual notification system.

  • It specifies both the font size and color for the word “FLOOD” accompanying the visual signal
  • It specifies the location of these signals, both in the car and at inspection stations, where applicable

🧩 Up next: When flood mode activates, where should the elevator go? Let’s talk destination floors. 🏢

  • A100-PFD Pit Flood Protector

    When water is detected in the pit, the pit flood protector moves the elevator and its passengers to pre-determined safe floor.

  • A100-PFS Pit Flood Switch

    A robust, waterproof float switch for detecting water or other liquid intrusion into the elevator pit.