Argentina's Firefighters Strengthen Elevator Safety Controls

During inspections, firefighters conduct technical tests and verifications to confirm that elevators meet safety standards and are suitable for use. It is also established that once a year, a safety inspection must be carried out by specialized firefighters. According to these regulations, elevator maintenance must be performed monthly, exclusively by companies duly registered with the Fire Department, which must have qualified technical personnel and authorization to service the brands they represent. The Fire Department reiterated the call to owners, residential property administrators, and businesses to comply with preventive maintenance and safety inspections of elevators, escalators, moving walkways, and similar equipment as a key measure to protect the lives and integrity of users. Sublieutenant Aldo Alberola, National Deputy Director of Fire Safety, Prevention, and Investigation, explained that this equipment is regulated by firefighters and must comply with the established parameters in the technical board's resolutions, which determine the mandatory safety, maintenance, and inspection requirements. Institutional statistics reflect that between 2020 and 2026, firefighters have responded to 559 rescues of people trapped in defective elevators. While this situation is not one of the most frequent emergencies, it does have a significant impact on the emotional health of those affected. This process is fundamental to ensuring that the equipment remains operational and in safe conditions. To this end, the maintenance company, the residential property administrator, or the business owner must submit a formal application to the institution, accompanied by certification that the equipment is in good working order. This causes anxiety, stress, and panic episodes, especially in children, the elderly, and people with pre-existing health conditions.