Safety requirements and compliance procedures for elevators and escalators are part of national legislation in every country. Elevator and escalator safety standards establish the level of safety and provide a means to comply with legislative requirements.
Since the introduction of safety standards nearly a century ago, the safety level of elevators and escalators has improved dramatically and continues to improve due to the evolution of safety requirements and solutions. Ongoing efforts to harmonize codes and safety standards around the world improve the level of safety for all, especially in emerging markets.
Due to the evolution of safety standards, there is a difference in the level of safety of new and existing installations. Safety standards and related regulations for elevators and escalators bring the level of safety for existing equipment closer to the present technology. This is particularly the case in the European Union, where in recent years, strict standards for safety and modernization have been adopted.
Accessibility is another important aspect that is being addressed by safety standards. If you consider changing demographics, with aging populations increasing in developed countries, accessibility is attracting ever greater attention.
Energy-efficiency and the reduction of the environmental impact of elevators and escalators is a priority for the industry. New standards and guidelines are in preparation.
KONE is a major contributor to codes and standards development through active participation in professional associations and standardization committees on national and international levels. We monitor legislative and standardization developments in the industry and contribute our technical know-how to help formulate the best solutions possible to achieve the highest level of safety for elevator and escalator passengers.
Besides safety, we strongly focus on accessibility and environmental aspects, and actively contribute to harmonizing codes and standards around the world.
KONE seeks to ensure that all equipment under its service is in full compliance with safety regulations and meets the highest levels of safety in the industry.