1. Do I need a QEI Inspector to test my elevators?
Effective July 1, 2009, the State of Maryland adopted new regulations regarding inspections by the Department of Labor and Regulations (DLLR). These new
regulations require certification by ASMS QEI-1 certified elevator inspectors (third party)
for elevators, escalators, moving walks, chair lifts, vertical lifts and dumbwaiters (collectively referred to as elevator equipment hereafter) to make sure they conform to
the Safety Code and Regulations adopted by the Commissioner.
The new law mandates that an owner of an elevator unit operating in MD contract with
an authorized third party QEI-1 certified elevator inspector to perform a periodic annual inspection of their elevators.
2. What is a QEI Certified Inspection?
QEI is a certification by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) that an individual has met the stringent qualifications to provide a certified inspection of elevator equipment.
3. How can I be sure that the inspector is providing a “certified” inspection?
The inspector must meet the qualification of QEI-1 unless specifically exempted by
State or Local law. A call to your local code enforcement agency (building department
or fire marshall) should be able to help you.
The QEI-1 inspector should be required to present proof of their current certification. Additionally, proof of adequate insurance meeting the requirements of Local or State
laws should always be required.
A QEI-1 certified inspector is not permitted to perform inspections on the elevators
for which they have a clear financial interest. It is considered unethical for any QEI-1
certified inspector to perform an inspection on any elevator equipment for which they
have a financial interest in the results of the inspection. In all cases, before agreeing to
allow a QEI-1 inspector to perform any inspections it should be completely understood
that they are acting independently and acting on behalf of the Authority having jurisdiction
only, and for the benefit of the Owner and riding public.
4. Are ALLSAFE inspectors certified and independent?
All ALLSAFE inspectors carry current QEI-1 certifications issued through an ASME
certified organization. ALLSAFE inspectors carry both general liability and professional
liability insurance. ALLSAFE is always independent.
5. In Maryland who performs the 5 year Full Load inspections on traction elevators?
The State of Maryland inspectors perform the 5 year Full Load inspections. The annual inspections are performed by an independent QEI inspector.
6. How much does a QEI elevator inspection cost?
Annual inspections are generally performed for a flat fee, while witnessing of tests is usually billed hourly. We offer many options for your convenience.
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