Pennsylvania requires annual elevator inspections under 34 Pa. Code Chapter 405. The Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry has sole jurisdiction over elevator safety statewide, including all elevators in Philadelphia.
Under Pennsylvania's Uniform Construction Code, the Department of Labor and Industry (L&I — the state agency, not the city department) has sole jurisdiction over elevator and escalator safety throughout the state, including Philadelphia (34 Pa. Code Chapter 405 and Chapter 7). All elevators, escalators, dumbwaiters, and moving walks must be inspected annually by a state-certified inspector. Building owners must register equipment with the state and maintain current certificates of operation displayed in each elevator cab. Inspections verify safety devices, door operations, emergency communications, pit conditions, machine room safety, fire service operations, and structural integrity. After major repairs or alterations, a state inspection is required before returning equipment to service. Residential elevators in single-family homes are subject to less stringent requirements but must meet installation codes. The state L&I maintains a database of registered elevators and their inspection status.
Operating without a current certificate: fines per state schedule. Failure to correct deficiencies within the reinspection period: escalating penalties. The state may order equipment removed from service for imminent hazards.
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