Major 2019 ASME A17.1 Changes for Elevator Emergency Communications — What Building Owners Need to Know

The 2019 edition of ASME A17.1 introduced some of the most significant updates to elevator emergency communications in decades. These changes go beyond traditional “emergency phones” and require systems that are accessible, resilient, and verifiable. Building owners and managers need to be aware of these mandates to remain compliant and ensure passenger safety.

Key 2019 Code Changes (Simplified)

1. Two-way communications to authorized personnel.

Every elevator must have a two-way communications means that connects to a location staffed by authorized personnel, with automatic fallback routing if the first call goes unanswered.

2. Mandatory visual communication.

For the first time, the code requires that elevator emergency systems include a visual communication option so passengers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech-impaired can communicate with responders. This is not optional — the system must allow passengers to send and receive information visually (text display, messaging interface, or equivalent).

3. Automatic verification and failure alerts.

Emergency systems must self-check the communication path (landline, VoIP, or cellular). If the connection fails, the system must provide both an audible and visual alarm until service is restored.

4. Backup power requirements.

Emergency communication must continue to function during a power outage. The 2019 code specifies at least 4 hours of standby power for communications and visual indicators, and at least 1 hour for the audible alarm.

5. Cellular now replaces landlines.

The old assumption that an elevator phone must connect via landline is gone. Cellular is now a reliable and compliant alternative — provided the system includes automatic verification, meets the 4-hour backup power requirement, and ensures continuous connectivity. In fact, many monitoring centers now prefer cellular because it avoids building-side landline/VoIP reliability issues.

Why These Changes Matter

  • Accessibility: Traditional voice-only phones excluded passengers with hearing or speech impairments. The visual option makes communication universal.
  • Reliability: Landlines are being phased out. Cellular, backed by code-required verification and power, ensures the system actually works when needed.
  • Resilience: Backup power guarantees passengers aren’t stranded without help during extended outages.
  • Better response: With video and verified communication, responders can see the situation and prioritize appropriately.

What This Means for Building Owners

  • Audit existing systems. Many older “ADA phones” do not meet the visual communication or verification requirements.
  • Plan for upgrades. Modern systems may require a new car station, display, camera, cellular communicator, and backup power supply.
  • Coordinate with IT and monitoring. Cellular service requires antenna placement, signal testing, and integration with monitoring centers.
  • Budget accordingly. Compliance isn’t just a handset swap — it may involve multiple system upgrades.

Quick Compliance Checklist

✅ Two-way communication to authorized personnel

✅ Visual option available for all passengers

✅ Automatic verification of the communications path

✅ 4-hour backup power for communications and display

✅ Cellular or VoIP connection properly backed by verification and power

✅ Video capability where required

How KDA Elevator Consultants Can Help

At KDA Elevator Consultants, we help building owners:

  • Conduct emergency communication audits
  • Specify compliant upgrades (visual displays, cellular communicators, backup power)
  • Coordinate with IT, monitoring, and contractors
  • Provide documentation and test reports for your AHJ

📞 Call 484-995-3642 or 📧 john@kdaelevatorconsultants.com for a review of your system.

Bottom Line

The 2019 ASME A17.1 updates fundamentally change elevator emergency communication. Visual communication is now mandatory, and cellular service is a compliant, reliable replacement for landlines. Building owners who don’t adapt risk failing inspections — and leaving passengers without help when it’s needed most.