Elevator Radio Show Podcast

Visit www.elevatorradioshow.com for more information and complete show notes.

I’d have to say that the only good thing to have come out of the Covid-19 and the shut downs is that I believe, based on the lack of internet articles, the number of elevator and escalator accidents has decreased.  That is up until this week.  There were two worker/construction related which requires a reality check about the dangers involved with the work we do each day.  We cannot ever lose sight of this!

It’s been a tough week in and around the City of Chicago.  Today’s show has nothing to do with elevators or escalators. My heart hurts and is angry for many reasons.  Many of which don’t really make sense to me.  I do my best to convey these on the program today but realize I’ll most likely offend some people or whatever I try to say might easily be taken out of context. I’m not looking for a fight, I’m simply looking for the looting and destruction to end.  To my friends, family who are first responders, I support you. I am by your side, you are not alone. Be safe out there and look out for your loved ones.  

It’s been a tough week in and around the City of Chicago.  Today’s show has nothing to do with elevators or escalators. My heart hurts and is angry for many reasons.  Many of which don’t really make sense to me.  I do my best to convey these on the program today but realize I’ll most likely offend some people or whatever I try to say might easily be taken out of context. I’m not looking for a fight, I’m simply looking for the looting and destruction to end.  To my friends, family who are first responders, I support you. I am by your side, you are not alone. Be safe out there and look out for your loved ones.  

I forgot what day or week it was since we started down this pandemic path as it continues to be a blur most days.  I find myself feeling like it is ground hog day every day I roll out of bed. I am very thankful that our company is open during this time, our employees able to work but it’s getting more difficult as this goes on.  Over the weekend I commented about the job one of our state representatives was doing to “keep us all safe” and the question pointed back to me was what would you have done different? I was caught off guard by this question but appreciated being asked it. I had never thought about it what I would have done differently.  I’ll share my response on today’s show. News/Article Links: Elevators and will the pandemic change them? A rough estimate for a hypothetical elevator scenario An uneven Curve Flattening The wonderful world of semantics Elevators could thwart office re-entry State guidelines to limit elevator capacity to 4 due to Covid-19 TX Requirements Getting ready to open up for small businesses Consequences of the shut down

While much of our attention continues to engross us in this pandemic I want all of us to think this Monday about those who fought and lost their lives for our country and gave the ultimate sacrifice. We have the “freedoms” we hold so close to our hearts today because of them.  Please take a moment to think of a loved one, a friend you might have lost while they were serving our country during war or peacetime. Remember and share stories of these hero’s and their sacrifices. Keep the memories of those who have died fresh and share those stories with our younger generations. We can never repay the ultimate sacrifice they gave but we make sure we never to forget them. On Monday, as well as every day, lets remember and think about something much more important than this pandemic, our fallen Hero’s. News/Article Links: Can you catch the corona virus from riding in an elevator Some notes about Covid-19 Elevators are a claustrophobic coronavirus nightmare How smart city planning could slow future pandemics Changes to reduce liability? IoT and elevator market forecast report It’s the week of releasing market forecasts it seems Memorial Day – Let us never forget Remember them always

As the coronavirus dominates every aspect of our lives today as well as what we hear on the news or read online I was reminded last night while having dinner with my boys something very important which I’m going to share on the show today.  As each of our states attempt to put in place plans to reopen some look to be doing as good a job as can be expected while others are struggling to create one that has actual measurable goals. Hang in there, this is long from over and keep doing what you’ve been doing to keep yourself, your coworkers and your families safe. A little common sense should go along way.   News/Article Links:   Thyssenkrupp sees coronavirus cash squeeze despite elevator sale   Otis – Florence Factory confirms COVID-19 Case   Tentative date for elevator repairs set at county office building   Social distancing in elevators   VTE shares enhanced A17.1-2019 table of contents   Old article but terrible headline

Terrible news out of Oklahoma today as news was shared of work place fatality involving an elevator mechanic. Even in today’s fear induced Coronavirus/Covid-19 world we cannot forget the steps needed to ensure those working, inspecting and riding on elevators, escalators and moving walkways are safe. These dangers will never change and we must not loose sight of this! The potential dangers inside an elevator shaft can’t even begin to compare to Covid-19 and we cannot forget it! While each of us worries about washing our hands, wearing a face mask and other significant ways to keep our coworkers and families safe the reality is that their are probably many more ways you could die during the course of the day after rolling out of bed than if you were sick with Covid-19. If we spent the same amount of effort, money and time on safety we would be safer because of it.  Do we need to be scared out of our minds to get to this point? It sure seems so. So take a step back, take a mile step back, and look at all the dangerous things that you may face each day.  The ones that could take your life in a second. Think about how many times you were crossing the street with your head buried in your phone not paying attention, when you sent that one text while you were driving thinking it was okay to send just one, when you didn’t lockout tag out that machine because you thought you would be safe enough. Each day there are monsters out there ready to get us. We need to show the same attention to these as we have Covid-19. We can’t forget the other “invisible enemy’s” waiting to change our life forever! Be safe, work safe, and share safety with your coworkers and family! News/Article Links: Accident OK claims elevator mechanic Wall Street Tries to Figure Out How to Get Back to the Office Distancing at reopened offices will mean long elevator lines Barclays CEO says ‘putting 7,000 people in a building may end Social distancing, cleaning in tight spaces fight infection Elevator and Escalator Market Set for Rapid Growth by 2026? Bringing some much-needed humor to Covid-19

Thanks for all the well wishes for my mom, they are greatly appreciated more than you know. This week’s show has a lot of article links which talk about elevators, the coronavirus as they relate and other pieces from experts or should I say columnists who share advice that should be common sense. When did we lose our ability to apply common sense to situations which affect our health and well-being? Why is it so difficult to comprehend the importance of sanitation and our keeping the bad stuff we cannot see from making us sick? I’m frustrated as a father, a son, and business owner. Thanks for letting me share these thoughts with you. They may be way off base and I’m no expert but I’m not seeing the light at the end of the tunnel.  Stay safe everyone.   News/Article Links: Coronavirus FAQ’s: How Risky Is An Elevator Ride? Walmart customer uses pepper spray on others boarding elevator NYCHA Housing Elevator Problems Advice on how to live responsibly during this pandemic? And here it comes, social distancing in elevators Can I go outside? Called a jerk when I didn’t share my elevator Social distancing in elevators We will get through this Chicago Otis Spin-Off: Most profitable elevator company at lowest valuation Watch your kids, mom charged with Child abuse Pritzker releases 761 inmates

The last two shows I’ve been struggling with what I’m going to be talking about. I wake up each day, and for a moment think to myself that everything is normal, life is good, then realize that Covid-19 is not a dream and we’re all living this nightmare together.  I continue to watch our Governor’s and the Whitehouse daily press briefing each day hoping for a glimpse of optimism that will allow us all to get back to our own normal lives. But despite the numbers, the flattening of the curve, that day seems so far out of sight.  Hang in there my friends, as an industry we’re going to struggle through this together.  Keep yourself safe, keep your family safe. Thank you for listening and allowing me to share and vent with you. I hope it brings some comfort in knowing that while we each may feel alone or helpless during this pandemic we are not. Good show today, one that I’m proud to have produced for you.

As optimistic as I’m attempting to seem it’s getting more difficult every day to see a light at the end of the tunnel. I’ll share more on this during the show today.  Continue to keep you and your family safe by washing your hands and sanitizing commonly touched work areas and make sure not to touch your eyes, ears or mouth unless your hands are clean.  This will help you stay healthy against all the bad stuff out there, not just Covid-19.  Some other advice I’d like to share is stay away from Facebook and the toxic posts you see out there. The news is just as bad. If you want to see what your governor or the Corona Virus Task Force has to share watch those briefings each day and form your own conclusion. The media rarely covers the entire briefing unfortunately.  The year off from this show has taught me that there are so many people out there who share information like they are experts when they aren’t. The media twists and turns and pounds home whatever they can to gain their viewing/subscriber base. The internet has become an ugly place and it’s truly sad to see.

As optimistic as I’m attempting to seem it’s getting more difficult every day to see a light at the end of the tunnel. I’ll share more on this during the show today.  Continue to keep you and your family safe by washing your hands and sanitizing commonly touched work areas and make sure not to touch your eyes, ears or mouth unless your hands are clean.  This will help you stay healthy against all the bad stuff out there, not just Covid-19.  Some other advice I’d like to share is stay away from Facebook and the toxic posts you see out there. The news is just as bad. If you want to see what your governor or the Corona Virus Task Force has to share watch those briefings each day and form your own conclusion. The media rarely covers the entire briefing unfortunately.  The year off from this show has taught me that there are so many people out there who share information like they are experts when they aren’t. The media twists and turns and pounds home whatever they can to gain their viewing/subscriber base. The internet has become an ugly place and it’s truly sad to see.

The equipment has been dusted off, powered back on and I’m back.  Today’s show, after taking eleven months off, comes full circle with the feeling and inspiration I felt when I recorded the first Elevator Radio Show podcast back in December 2005.  I have so many of you to thank for this.  I’ll be sharing the perspective from a company that manufactures elevator equipment on the steps we’ve taken along with just my thoughts on this entire pandemic. The goal here is to provide all of you, a place to come each week as we all do our best to get through this cluster. I care deeply for our industry, all who work in it and the safety of people who touch it every day. This virus is going to shift the way human beings interact forever as well as our industry.  Please be careful as you venture out into the world and practice the steps outlined by the CDC to keep yourself healthy. Wash hands as often as you can with soap and water for 20 mins. Don’t touch any of your body openings with your hands.  The virus must enter your body somewhere for you to become sick, don’t roll out the red carpet for it. Thought for today’s show: Anger is the last bastion of the powerless. News/Article Links: NEII – Elevators and the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Resources CECA – Basecamp Sharing Site Non members contact them to become a member DOL – Guidance for Preparing Workplaces DOL – Families First Be Safe Online and Offline Flu Season Estimates Center for Disease Control Links CDC – How to Protect Yourself from Coronavirus (COVID-19) CDC – What to do if you are sick CDC – Daily Life and Coping CDC – People who need to take extra precautions Stimulus Aid Package NPR – What’s inside the Coronavirus Aid Package SBA – Apply for Economic Injury Disaster Loan

This is the first show I’ve done where there were more than one “I-Team” type investigative report on expired elevator certificates. In the years I’ve been creating this podcast, never have any of them truly attempted to address or get to the bottom of the reason why. My question to you I-Team, reporter….look deeper into the numbers.  Find out the budget for the elevator inspection department, the number of inspectors the department has and the number of elevators that require inspections annually.  Go a step further and ask how long an inspection should take on average and plug those numbers into a spreadsheet.  After you’ve done this ask whether or not the funding allocated, the number of inspectors employed and the number of elevators, escalators, moving walkways and dumbwaiters that require inspections annually can be done based on the time and number of inspectors there are to do it. Do the numbers confirm that there’s adequate funding and employed inspectors to complete the number of inspections that are required each year? Show Notes: Person falls down elevator shaft in NY More than 1,600 elevators in Philly have expired certs. Another I-Team investigative report: Boston This time it’s Los Angeles Repairmen burned in Palo Alto shaft fire TKE abandons plan to split in two Do broken elevators violate ADA Brake failure blamed in elevator accident Meet one of Chicago’s last elevator operators Stranded student visitors are helped at Kennedy Center Full report released in Hancock building stall City Hall’s elevator on its last trip Boy sitting on escalator loses finger, parents demand mall pay medical costs

Today’s program has a little bit of everything. What surprised me was the number of accidents reported as they related to the general riding public and/or workers that use elevators for work.  Many of which had me simply scratching my head wondering the true cause for each of them.  In addition, I’ll cover the upcoming calendar of events and share my hopes that Spring will soon be here. Show Notes: DC firefighters hoist students out of elevator at Kennedy Center Elevators undergo $1M in renovations TKE to upgrade two elevators at Cobb County gov building Supreme Court hears case of woman fined, arrested for not holding escalator rail ESD signage in the UK BC housing knew about elevator issues Man in mobility scooter falls three floors in Toronto Veterans get elevator for VFW Four injured after man falls over on escalator Snake removed from elevator ceiling Woman injured in elevator accident Elevator access solution released Broke escalator adds to Southern Cross chaos Man on cargo cart dies in elevator accident Readers turn thumbs-down on plan for O’Hare’s Global Terminal IAEC 2019 Reno Forum Fast Approaching CEA Night at the Races Historical commission rejects plan to add elevator Elevator U Registration Open Upcoming Educational Workshops/Classes

This is one of those shows where one unexpected article link, had me thinking about recalls and elevators and escalators as they related to the CPSC.  After reading and sharing one listed below, I got to thinking about the question of whether there were other recalls out there as they related that I hadn’t seen and decided to do some quick digging.  What I found was a little concerning.  I need to fully disclose my day job involves many things but manufacturing and selling door interlocks and mechanical door switches for freight/passenger elevators.  We are not, however a player in the residential elevator market. Also, I’m not an expert when it comes to residential elevators nor anything for tha matter so take what I say with a grain of salt.  With all of this out of the way I ask one simple question on the show today which is a good one. Show Notes: Cambridge Elevating recalls home elevators due to fall hazard Other recalls affecting “elevator” equipment Plastic Residential Door Latches? Residential Elevator Safety Meeting Planned 3-month elevator battle at plaza prompts action by tenants Why everyone should stand still on an escalator One elevator has some feeling like prisoners Work safe out there Woman stuck in elevator for 21 hours : China U of Michigan to upgrade historic Detroit Observatory Next CEA Meeting: Tomorrow Elevator U Registration Open Upcoming Educational Workshops/Classes

I was hoping it would be a show without covering any accidents, but this week is not the week to be.  In addition, you can ask your coworkers if they know what a “RIOT” button does in an elevator.  In Sacrament someone thought it would be a good idea to add them to some of their governmental elevators.  It’s also our Prize Pack Giveaway show which is my favorite of the month.  Special thanks to Colley Elevator and Codedataplate.com for providing $25 gift cards for it.  Work safe out there. Prize Pack Giveaway – Thanks To the Following Prize Pack Giveaway Donors! C.J. Anderson & Company, Colley Elevator Company, Codedataplate.com,  The National Association of Elevator Safety Authorities, The Elevator Escalator Safety Foundation, Truxes, EMS Group, Elevator Bob’s Elevator Pictures, Minnesota Elevator, ElevatorU.org, Elevator World Magazine, NAEC, Elevator Cab Renovations, Parts Specialists Inc, Elevatormanstories.com, Elevator Riders Riding Club, Peelle, The pQEI Inspection App & Maxton Manufacturing Show Notes: Construction worker injured after falling down elevator shaft Family wants change at airport Old woman nears death in lift accident – China Death of hotel worker in 2016 leads to $200k in fines Transit crews work to improve elevator/escalator service MTA The harsh reality when elevators are broken Will Big Bang Theory finally fix its longest running problem? RIOT Buttons installed in elevator? Judy Marks Leads Otis Elevator on a Tech-Fueled Quest for Growth Evil of all evil – How is bail set for someone like this? IAEC Conference Fast Approaching

We’ve got a good show for you today. There are at least three articles that should be the talk around the office cooler, weekly safety toolbox talks or any other opportunity you have to chat with your coworkers about. In the end each all come down to safety.  And on a non-elevator related note it’s the first day of Spring today for those of us in the Northern Hemisphere. Let’s hope Mother Nature is done sending snow and cold our way.

I was truly moved at the number of you who emailed me the news regarding the fatality in ND.  While an investigation it still pending initial reports indicate he was electrocuted while servicing an escalator.  Every time I read one of these articles my heart sinks and I feel like my words fall on deaf ears.  Your emails, sharing the news of this tragedy, helped me realize that safety is a priority to so many of you which I find a small amount of comfort in. Keep Josh Bosch, his family especially his wife and two daughters in your thoughts and prayers.

There’s a wide variety of article links shared on today's show. The first one pounds home the concern for safety in the job site as it relates not to construction or maintenance of buildings but in other services like demolition and wrecking.  It’s a terrible accident and reminder of just how fragile life is and how it can change in an instant.

It’s one of those shows where there aren’t a lot of stories to cover but the ones I do and the thoughts I share should be ones everyone contemplates both in your office and out in the field.  We’re talking about liability, safety and at what point is it okay to fire a customer or lockout/tag out an elevator when you deem it to be unsafe or when elevator/building owners choose to ignore recommendations for upgrades/improvements and simply just want to spend as little money as possible on getting them back running again. Prize Pack Giveaway – Thanks To the Following Prize Pack Giveaway Donors! C.J. Anderson & Company, Colley Elevator Company, Codedataplate.com,  The National Association of Elevator Safety Authorities, The Elevator Escalator Safety Foundation, Truxes, EMS Group, Elevator Bob’s Elevator Pictures, Minnesota Elevator, ElevatorU.org, Elevator World Magazine, NAEC, Elevator Cab Renovations, Parts Specialists Inc, Elevatormanstories.com, Elevator Riders Riding Club, Peelle, The pQEI Inspection App & Maxton Manufacturing Show Notes: Failing to ensure good condition leads to death and $200K fine Elevator operator survives four story fall down elevator shaft – NY Blazers stalled in Boston Elevator for 30 minutes JPS Hospital provides details of accident Contractor warned JPS weeks before injury Joliet businessman calls for elevator upgrades $9 million project to replace elevators in Brockton CEA Meeting Thursday March 7th NAESAi Central Region Workshop March 8-9 Safety Report by CPWR Linked Online – www.cpwr.com

Thank you to everyone who shared the .pdf report last week.  I received many emails, texts and phone calls regarding the show and while I do not think I did it justice I truly hope some of the information I shared sinks in with any one and every one who reads it.  Most importantly share it with your coworkers, talk about the statistics, how can some of those accidents or fatalities be reduced?  Each of us has a part in the work we do and ensuring those around us are safe and it doesn’t take much for it all to go south. Continue to talk about the report and  never let it die.  Lastly, no matter what you ever think you’re not alone when it comes to promoting safety but it sure feels good when you find someone else who shares the same concerns you do.

On today’s show we focus on one thing and one thing only, a report released by CPWR | The Center for Construction Research and Training focusing solely on Death and Injuries involving elevators or escalators in construction and the general population.  How dangerous is it working on or around this type of equipment? You may have had an idea before, but the numbers will confirm what many of us already knew, it’s dangerous. The statistical data in the report share some pretty concerning numbers. Sadly, the answers to why some are as high as they are is not clear. One thing is for certain, we each need to do our part make sure we’re safe as well as those around us. Please share this report/link with as many coworkers as you can. This is the first report I’ve ever seen on accident statistics ever published for the general public. Thanks for preparing it CPWR. Show Notes: Deaths and Injuries Involving Elevators or Escalators in Construction and the General Population Report – 2013-2016 Elevator Escalator Safety Foundation

Today’s show includes two-construction worker fatalities, one in FL the other in UT. In addition, an interesting piece covers elevators in the New York Housing Authority.  These locations are some of the toughest for building systems anywhere. Almost on the same level as transit systems.  The headline photo itself pretty much paints the picture of the issues shared in the article.  Work safe out there everyone. Visit www.cjanderson.com for complete show notes.

I figured picking the coldest day of the year to bring the show back which to me is perfect timing.  While it’s -16 degrees here in Chicago it’s cold enough to have closed schools and some businesses today and tomorrow. Regardless it’s nice to be back and I can’t tell you how much I appreciate all the calls, emails and texts I received asking if I was okay. I’ll do my best to share an explanation for my absence on the show today.  It’s good to be back, I missed my elevator family. Prize Pack Giveaway – Thanks To the Following Prize Pack Giveaway Donors! C.J. Anderson & Company, Colley Elevator Company, Codedataplate.com,  The National Association of Elevator Safety Authorities, The Elevator Escalator Safety Foundation, Truxes, EMS Group, Elevator Bob’s Elevator Pictures, Minnesota Elevator, ElevatorU.org, Elevator World Magazine, NAEC, Elevator Cab Renovations, Parts Specialists Inc, Elevatormanstories.com, Elevator Riders Riding Club, Peelle, The pQEI Inspection App & Maxton Manufacturing News/Article Links: Woman Trapped in elevator for three days - NY Elevator Safety in NY Cold and Elevators Elevator woes impact residents, first responders Employee injured in hospital elevator Tragic death of subway stairs Man rescued from elevator in Peoria Judge gives building owner time to make repairs Escalator death and being charged with negligence – India City offers to help pay for county’s broken elevator London agency redesigns elevators Next CEA Meeting February 7th Big settlement in accident EESF Board Hires New Executive Director QEI & Elevator Code Associate Training Schedule

It is so sad that we lost another elevator mechanic this past week. I share that article along with another which goes to show that even the most safety conscious can be hurt or fatally injured in their everyday work environments. Not a great show to make anyone feel good so share the stories, the information with your coworkers and let’s all do our best to prevent any more accidents like this from happening in the future.

I learned some sad news this week about the passing of Gordon Ernst who was a consultant from Washington.  I didn’t know Gordon that well and met him only a few times. However he made a lasting impression on me. Recognize those who make this profound impact on you, no matter how little or how great. Know that life is short and before you know it the time we have here to make a difference will soon be gone. I know, a bit morbid for a Wednesday morning but lately I’ve discovered the reality that even though life is the longest thing we’ll ever do it’s as fragile as an egg. News/Article Links: Four hurt in elevator accident in Brooklyn Progress being made on elevator in iconic building NY Man chokes to death after getting caught Fire in courthouse elevator Man in wheel chair dies after tumbling down escalator Last manual elevator in Milwaukee Hartford firefighters take part in training The future of space Oracle acquires Vertical Systems Inc. Next CEA Meeting – November 1st Never do this!

Back from a week in Atlantic City exhibiting at the NAEC and it was great to see so many of you who stopped by to say hello. I love the fact the show was out east to tailor to our NY and east coast friends and hope that after the next two or three times we’re scheduled to hold a convention there we can move to other cities and venues. I’ll share a quick recap of the event, also on what’s happening with our production equipment and want you to know it feels good to be back.

Next week is the Wisconsin Elevator Symposium and I’m looking forward to it. The venue, the topics and the ability to get so many educational credits in once place draws a lot of people. If you need to get your educational credits consider attending this event. It’s a really cool place to hold a conference and a first rate event. I’ll be there the night for the dinner and look forward to seeing many of you there.

It’s like either heat has hit elevators pretty hard across the country or there’s a full moon out there because there are so many articles regarding elevators not working I couldn’t share them all. In addition seems as if there are crazy people out there as well using and doing things in elevators they shouldn’t be doing. It’s the last show of the month and I’ve got a $100 gift card and prize pack box to giveaway. Thanks for tuning into the show today. Prize Pack Giveaway – Thanks To The Following Prize Pack Giveaway Donors! C.J. Anderson & Company, Colley Elevator Company, Codedataplate.com,  The National Association of Elevator Safety Authorities, The Elevator Escalator Safety Foundation, Truxes, EMS Group, Elevator Bob’s Elevator Pictures, Minnesota Elevator, ElevatorU.org, Elevator World Magazine, NAEC, Elevator Cab Renovations, Parts Specialists Inc, Elevatormanstories.com, Elevator Riders Riding Club, Peelle, The pQEI Inspection App & Maxton Manufacturing   News/Article Links: Dallas hotel evacuated after shaft fire CEA Meeting next week: City of Chicago Code Update 15-20 people rescued from elevator in Vegas China: Boy, escalator, not riding correctly No dogs on escalators please Invest in your elevators Police seek man in attempted assault Oman: Escalator collapse kills one, injures three People are still trying to build a space elevator Toronto condo residents irate over repair delays This sounds even worse What is wrong with people? University Honors Students who found love in an elevator Secondary elevators at caverns could be expensive Grant awarded for elevator Elevator retrofit strands residents Philippines: Elevator collapses, 4 injured Montana State installing elevator Take notice ambulance chasing attorneys TKE launches new cost effective elevator Sign up with your email address to receive news and updates whenever news happens or a show is

Some of the featured articles on today’s show are ones I wish I weren’t sharing. One I found cool shares an elevator company that’s investing in training our current and future workforce. And as a reminder don’t wear soft soled shoes or take your furry friends on escalators. In addition the email I shared today centers around the building owner with some colorful commentary by your truly.

The two topics I want to touch on today involve flooding elevators as well as watching your kids when out in the world. I’m not talking about keeping them on a physical leash or anything but one accident involving a 3 year old and an escalator could have been prevented had she been watched more closely. Flooding elevators is a much more serious concern than originally thought as the power of water when it arrives too quickly can cause a serious life threatening situation. Visit www.elevatorradioshow.com for complete show notes.

Riding escalators is safe, as long as you ride them the correct way.  The fine print is as follows for all the ambulance chasing attorneys out looking to purchase their next vacation home on the cape with a settlement relating to our industry,  I have no idea what the specifics are from any of the accidents shared in today’s show.  However based on my knowledge as a father and my job to keep my kids safe the information shared in those articles leads me to believe that in both cases the escalators were not being ridden safely.  Hands should be on the hand rails, feet should be away from the sides of an escalator.  As parents it’s our job to protect and teach our children the best way to survive in the world. If there was any money in suing parents for negligence I’m certain you’d see a huge new field of attorneys pursuing it.   www.eesf.org

Good to be back after a busy four weeks of travel.  I’m thinking things will settle down a little bit by November. I appreciate so many of you reaching out to me asking what the heck was going on but the reality is that life just got really, really busy for me, more so than normal. ““Elevators don’t run if you don’t do maintenance,” said Dick Gregory, a Chicago-based elevator consultant who has testified as an expert witness in lawsuits involving elevator injuries throughout the country. “And they’re not safe if you don’t do maintenance. - Dick Gregory - Vertex Elevator Consultants News/Article Links: Talks on merging? The Unheard enthusiasm for elevators Broken elevator takes toll on residents Three years later Chimney Rock gets elevator back Modular Elevator added to mill building Murphysboro middle school to get new elevator Chicago Elevator Association Golf Outing Wisconsin Elevator Symposium Swing door elevator rescue Smith Tower elevator operators retire Worker injured in elevator shaft Do not take dogs on escalators! NPR CHA Elderly Facilities Escalators in China Ellies, Vote Today! Otis launches app for safer lift $5.8 settlement for elevator mechanic

This is the kind of show I truly wish I didn’t have to do. One filled with accident after accident. What ties closely with the idea that Bob Shepherd shared in the May issue of the Progress he was nice enough to let me re-post on June 9th but it really gets you thinking beyond the safety and toolbox talks. Read the article and think about how you can go beyond just “talking” about safety but actually living it. I’ll share more on this in my commentary during the show.

It's catch up week after postponing last week’s show. Unfortunately I have too many articles that involve accidents to share, three tragic which could have been prevented.  In addition I’ll share a scary story regarding a friend/mechanic who was involved in an accident last year in while in the field. Just as a reminder if you need your QEI certification renewed you need to get on that quick! For more information visit NAESAi.org. News/Article Links: Construction worker dies in alleged elevator malfunction Cousin recalls man who fell from construction elevator In Memoriam: Bernard Kelly - Ottawa NJ Transit Secaucus escalator reverses direction injuring 3 This is what happens when you’re not paying attention Man dies after falling off escalator Two die in St. Louis 2-Year-old injured on escalator Man clowning around leads to escalator death In case you forgot how to ride escalators Seniors, disabled at risk in downtown high-rise Lawsuit filed against hotel in drowning Legislators advance elevator-safety measures in PA Tiny home is outfitted with an elevator Pile up on escalator, teach people about the stop button What does a Sturgeon elevator look like? Paralyzed man gets elevator, home repairs China develops elevator response vehicle How Bill de Blasio Bought NYCHA KONE to use interactive surface media panels WBEZ – CHA and Elevators

First and foremost make sure on Monday, while spending time with family, you take the opportunity to share and talk about your family members and friends who died while serving our country.  Neither we nor generations to come can forget the ultimate sacrifice they gave by serving. They are the reason why we enjoy the freedoms we have today. News/Article Links: Two construction workers die in elevator collapse DC elevator inspections Escalators are not toys Please put these behind a paywall Are change orders in government truly an issue Graduate School as an Elevator Rebooting your career Man injured when elevator drops Elevator intercom reading a novel ADA and Elevators Hong Kong’s lift and escalator fatigue test Improving safety in Hong Kong Bad day for pickup truck and driver

On today’s program I get to get to share an experience I had regarding an elevator from 1934, an accident and the problem with building/elevator owners who simply won’t invest in there elevators. So what’s the moral of the story? When you’re a cheap ass slumlord with no intention of investing in your buildings there’s a good chance someone is going to get hurt or worse lose their life.  As contractors, inspectors, consultants and manufacturers we all need to take steps to help educate slum lords of America. www.elevatorradioshow.com

Today’s show leads with what I think is a pretty good idea as it relates to the issues of elevators being used as bathrooms in Transit Systems in large metropolitan cities.  While the pilot program will prove whether it’s effective or not I give BART a lot of credit for giving it a try. The show is short and sweet today.       News/Article Links:   BART AND Muni elevator Attendants shoo urinators   Elevator attendants may be the way to go   Otis launches higher level of customer service   Elevator repairs set for MAX Stations   Elevators Are Going Green   Otis goes solar in SC   How Popular Science covered the ESB Opening   Escalator riding done badly   MTA Building three new elevators   Season two of Elevator Pitch   Investigation launched into boys foot entrapment   One minute attack let hackers spoof hotel keys   CEA 4th Annual Scholarship Fundraiser   Damn elevators

I was close to only sharing one news story today and looking back maybe I should have. Each that follows the lead article fails to compare to the tragedy of losing another elevator mechanic.  I read other articles and Facebook posts where those who knew Randy referred to him as a Superhero.  I need you all to remember that you are someone’s Superhero.  You may not feel like it but you are and those whom might view you as such would never be the same if something like this were to happen to you.  Our industry sends its most deep heart sympathy to the friends and family of Randy Wilson. Work safe out there.

It’s a slow week in news which gives me a little time to reflect on life in general. Thank you to all of you reached out to me in the last week regarding our 500th show. It’s been my pleasure to bring it to you each week.

I was never really a big fan of milestones or my own birthday for that matter and simply feel lucky just being able to do what I enjoy doing.  I want to thank each of you for joining me each week as I’ve made some awesome friends along the way.  So thank you for helping make me want to do this each week. visit www.elevatorradioshow.com for complete show notes.

It’s good to be back after visiting my oldest son in Montana during Spring Break with my family.  We drove which gave me lots of time to think and some of which applied to the show.  I’ll share more on this next week when we hit show number 500.  However there’s a stack of articles to get through many of which are not all that positive unfortunately.  As always, thanks for tuning in to the show!   News/Article Links: Philly Elevator Contractors Union gives a lift Registrations open for Elevator U 5-Year-Old’s hands get trapped in escalator Man dies after makeshift elevator falls on him KONE Acquires Heartland Elevator Child taken to hospital after falling down elevator shaft Man’s legs injured in escalator accident Michigan family rescued from stalled elevator Crews rescue woman after she falls into elevator shaft Library wants to replace ‘temperamental’ elevator Kenwood elevator fixed Art and elevators Keep your feet away from the sides of escalators Fire Department trains in LIRR elevator rescue Boston high rise without working elevators Elevator enthusiast’s collection draws attention Oracle Elevator Announces New Technology Center CEA Meeting tomorrow and other events “Ride the Pink Elevator” Campaign Man stuck in MBTA escalator The hidden cost of improving elevator service

It’s hard to believe we’re in March after receiving a bit of snow in Chicago yesterday and seeing the storm that’s hitting the Northeast right now. Hopefully whatever snow is left is gone by July 4th.  We’ve got a good show today, stories, content that will have you wondering what the heck Comportation means.   News/Article Links: Employee airlifted after being trapped in elevator shaft MTA Violated Law Omitting Elevators in Station Upgrade Elevator Comportation? Carlsbad Caverns: Elevator Delays Elevator U Conference Registration Open Ambulance Chasers How to keep your elevator biz from crashing NYC Buildings & Elevators Man found at bottom of elevator shaft Delhi: Elevator accident, 5 injured Maxton Manufacturing Company training heads north You’ve been served, how to respond to respond NAESA International Member Benefits: Progress IAEC Forum 2018

It was nice to see many of you at the NAESA International Spring Workshop on Friday. I appreciate the opportunity to provide a very quick update on the EESF and what we covered during our annual meeting.  Education is critical in everything we do and continuing it yearly if not daily is important. The day I stop learning something new is the day I should be in the eight feet under. Share what you learn with others, especially when it comes to preserving and protecting the safety of others.

There is so much to cover on the show today that’ I’m certain of leaving something or many things out.  First and foremost I’m back from the Elevator Escalator Safety Foundation Annual General Meeting and it felt good to pass the gavel on to Mark Mullins the EESF’s new Chairman.  I’m proud to be a member of the foundation and also to have helped it these past few years but now it’s ready for the executive board to help it reach its goals and promote its mission. Last Show Of The Month – Prize Pack Giveaway – Thanks To The Following Prize Pack Giveaway Donors! C.J. Anderson & Company, Colley Elevator Company, The National Association of Elevator Safety Authorities, The Elevator Escalator Safety Foundation, Truxes, EMS Group, Elevator Bob’s Elevator Pictures, Minnesota Elevator, ElevatorU.org, Elevator World Magazine, NAEC, Elevator Cab Renovations, Parts Specialists Inc, Elevatormanstories.com, CodeDataPlate.com, Elevator Riders Riding Club, Peelle, The pQEI Inspection App & Maxton Manufacturing     News/Article Links: NYPD Officers deliver baby in side elevator China warns parents after boy caught on camera Workforce development complex elevator gets state approval Observation deck and 1000-foot-tall external elevator Salem weighs $250K elevator expense Elevators shut down Boys foot caught in airport escalator Province introduces bill to regulate repair times 26 rescued from overloaded elevator CEA Business meeting March 1st Why the world still awaits its first space elevator Beijing elevator charges 3 US Cents per ride Man injured in fall from escalator rail The do’s and don’ts of elevator safety Costly elevator safety regs are coming to NY NAESA Educational Sessions  

Happy Valentine’s Day everyone!  It’s an action packed show today with lots to cover.  Next week I’ll be in Tampa attending the Elevator Escalator Safety Foundation Annual General Meeting. I’m looking forward to it and sharing the progress the EESF has been making.  I’ve been lucky to have had my turn helping guide the foundation along and look forward to supporting it in the future.  I return early Wednesday so there will be no show next week.   News/Article Links: Oracle Elevator completes four acquisitions Swiss Skier not so smart Required upgrades to single-speed elevators lifted Please don’t take dogs or cats on escalators! Guide Dogs take the elevator TKE Thriving on steel and elevator sales TKE not in talks with KONE ISU student suffers minor injury Ryerson had 71 elevator breakdowns Man want’s answers why leg got caught in escalator? Crook roughs up and robs a teenager inside elevator Condo association told to pay elevator company CEA March Meeting Date Set

Feeling much better after having the flu and can honestly say I can’t remember the last time an illness kicked my butt like this.  It’s not a warm and fuzzy show today as I get caught up on two weeks of news to share.  I was surprised how good it felt to get up this morning at 2 am.   News/Article Links: Repair worker dies in elevator fall Woman dies in BART escalator fall in SF Russian’s Snubbed In Elevator Child, man injured in elevator accident Man gets leg stuck in escalator MESA Renewal Online Broken elevators cause agonizing lines EESF AGM Meeting Dates Set Teach our kids about creeps like this Century old elevator keeps visitors out Carnegie Building gets lift NAESA International Workshops Some worry about subway elevators and attacks Huge idiot at it again – What’s an elevator maintenance test? Elevator rescue steps for Firefighters IAEC Forum 2018 ECS Opens Western Regional Facility

As we learn the identity of the mechanic who was killed in a work related accident last week I think it hurts even more after learning he was a young father. If the photos don’t help you in working methodical and safe each day nothing will. News/Article Links: Young father identified as victim in elevator accident Support the family of Brandon Clifford Elevator mechanics question state law Historic Oregon Bank continues daily runs Critics Slam senior housing center KONE expects China to hit 2018 profitability Indonesia poor building construction 125th Anniversary of the escalator Next CEA Meeting: February 1st EESF AGM Meeting Dates Set  

This New Year has started off tragically when an elevator mechanic was found dead on top of an elevator in Texas.  Details are still not complete yet and I will share them as they become available. As much as we talk about safety we need to press on and continue to promote it so that there are zero accidents and zero fatalities. The work that’s done in our industry is dangerous and not worth the pay grade many mechanics make if they don’t make it home to their family each night.  Do your part to press safety. Make it become the first thing you think about getting out of bed each morning.

I hope everyone had a nice Christmas.  It was great to see family and friends and by the time Tuesday rolled around it was nice to have an extra day off. It’s a very light show today. I almost didn’t produce it as my computer took about an hour to update this morning but it finally finished.  Also I was a little disheartened at the fact that the number one website link that pulled up in my news collector was that of a bloke sliding down the center of an escalator which should NEVER be done!  I wish that ad revenue and human kind in general didn’t feed the machine like this. Happy New Year, looking forward to the opportunities to make our industry a better one on in 2018! Last Show Of The Month – Prize Pack Giveaway – Thanks To The Following Sponsors: C.J. Anderson & Company, Colley Elevator Company, The National Association of Elevator Safety Authorities, The Elevator Escalator Safety Foundation, GAL, Truxes, EMS Group, Elevator Bob’s Elevator Pictures, Minnesota Elevator,  ElevatorU.org, Elevator World Magazine, The National Association of Elevator Contractors, Elevator Cab Renovations, Parts Specialists Inc, Elevatormanstories.com, CodeDataPlate.com, Elevator Riders Riding Club, Peelle, The pQEI Inspection App & Maxton Manufacturing   News/Article Links: Man hurt I fall from homemade elevator Never do this! Three more stuck in Frecso elevator Keep your stuff close in an elevator Condo’s and Assessments 471 Escalators inspected – Malaysia Sad letter, good Samaritan Law Lift & Escalator Symposium Dates Set CEA Christmas Recap Woman injured after falling over escalator CEA Meeting Next Week