Closing elevators to public use during a fire is a capability associated with which building system?

Closing elevators to public use during a fire is a capability associated with which building system?

• A. Fire Alarm System
• B. Security System
• C. Plumbing System
• D. Building Management System

Answer: (A)

When a fire occurs, keeping people away from using potentially hazardous pathways is a primary life-safety goal. The ability to close elevators to public use and instead control their operation is provided through the Fire Alarm System. The fire alarm panel interfaces with elevator equipment to perform recall (guiding elevators to a safe floor, typically the lobby) and to prevent regular public use of the elevators during the alarm. This coordination helps ensure occupants evacuate via stairs and that elevators don’t become traps or spread smoke. The Security System deals with access control and lockdowns for security reasons, not the fire-driven protection of occupants in a fire. The Plumbing System has no role in elevator control during a fire, and while a Building Management System can automate various functions, the specific capability to shut down elevator service in fire conditions is a function of the fire alarm/elevator control integration.

When a fire occurs, keeping people away from using potentially hazardous pathways is a primary life-safety goal. The ability to close elevators to public use and instead control their operation is provided through the Fire Alarm System. The fire alarm panel interfaces with elevator equipment to perform recall (guiding elevators to a safe floor, typically the lobby) and to prevent regular public use of the elevators during the alarm. This coordination helps ensure occupants evacuate via stairs and that elevators don’t become traps or spread smoke. The Security System deals with access control and lockdowns for security reasons, not the fire-driven protection of occupants in a fire. The Plumbing System has no role in elevator control during a fire, and while a Building Management System can automate various functions, the specific capability to shut down elevator service in fire conditions is a function of the fire alarm/elevator control integration.