YSU residence hall elevator back in service

The elevator in Kilcawley House residence hall on the campus of Youngstown State University was placed back into service today after an additional safety device was installed to help prevent the possibility of future accidents caused by overloading the car. The elevator resumed service after a final inspection by the state.

“The safety of students is paramount across our campus,” said Jack Fahey, interim vice president for Student Affairs. “We have and will continue to work closely with the state, as well as our elevator service company, ThyssenKrupp, to ensure that this elevator and all elevators on campus are in safe operating condition. We also have and will continue to impress upon our students and others on campus the importance of operating the elevators in a safe and appropriate manner.”

The elevator has been closed since Sept. 10. At least 13 students were in the car on the fourth floor in Kilcawley House when it suddenly descended to the basement. There were no serious injuries. YSU police were on the scene within three minutes. There are indications that overloading the car was a contributing factor.

Inspectors with the Division of Industrial Compliance of the Ohio Department of Commerce investigated. Inspectors report that the elevator’s regular inspections were up to date, that the car’s safety systems were operational and in compliance, and that the machine brake was properly adjusted and in compliance.

Prior to placing the elevator back into service, and on the recommendation of the state, YSU installed an updated, state-of-the-art load-weighing device on the elevator. In a potential overload situation, this device assists in preventing the elevator from moving or the door from closing until the load condition is reduced to the calibrated amount. The device is beyond what is required by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers’ elevator safety code. The university will consider installing similar devices on other high-use elevators on campus.

The YSU Office of Housing and Residence Life has met with students to emphasize the importance of not overloading the elevators.