scope:

GENERAL

This Code is one of the numerous codes and standards developed and published by The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) under the general auspices of the American National Standards Institute, Inc. (ANSI).

The Code is intended to serve as the basis for state, provincial, municipal, and other authorities having jurisdiction in drafting regulations governing the design construction, installation, operation, testing, inspection, maintenance, alteration, and repair of elevators, dumbwaiters, escalators, moving walks, and material lifts. It is also intended as a standard reference of safety requirements for the guidance of architects, engineers, insurance companies, manufacturers, and contractors, and as a standard of safety practices for owners and managers of equipment within the Scope of the Code.

Safety codes and standards are intended to enhance public health and safety. Revisions result from committee consideration of factors such as technological advances, new data, and changing environmental and industry needs. Revisions do not imply that previous editions were inadequate.

Not all of ther equirements of the Code apply to equipment installed prior to its adoption by authorities having jurisdiction, but those which do apply to existing as well as to new installations are outlined in 1.1.3. See ASME A17.3, Safety Code for Existing Elevators and Escalators, for further requirements.