Extended Abstract
Background and Objectives: In recent decades, the increasing construction of high-rise buildings and the growing population density within these buildings have highlighted the need to develop safe and efficient strategies for the emergency evacuation of occupants, particularly in critical situations such as fires. Since 1974, the concept of evacuation elevators has been introduced, and extensive research, particularly in the United States and European countries, has led to the development of approaches recommending the use of elevators as a complementary or even alternative option to conventional stairways. This shift in perspective has resulted in a transition from traditional guidance, which emphasized avoiding the use of elevators during emergencies, toward educating occupants on the safe use of these systems. Despite these global advancements, comprehensive standards and requirements for the design and operation of evacuation elevators have not yet been developed in Iran, and the Iranian National Building Regulations primarily focus on requirements related to emergency stairways and fire service elevators. Furthermore, the lack of clear implementation guidelines and localized standards has hindered the systematic integration of this technology into building projects in the country. Two major challenges, including prolonged evacuation times via stairways and considerable physical and psychological strain on vulnerable groups, further highlight the need for evacuation elevators. Although these systems may appear similar to fire service elevators, their functions and primary objectives are fundamentally different. This study aims to review international standards, analyze the current situation in Iran, and propose solutions for the safe and efficient design and use of evacuation elevators in high-rise buildings. The research focuses exclusively on this category of elevators.
Methods: This research was conducted with the objective of improving the performance of evacuation elevators in high-rise buildings in Iran, following a comprehensive approach consisting of three main stages. In the first stage, data collection and analysis were conducted. Extensive data were collected from credible sources, including scientific articles, national and international standards, research reports, and case studies. For this purpose, databases and sources such as Scopus, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and Elevator World were selected as the primary sources of data. Following data collection, a detailed analysis was conducted to identify key concepts, factors affecting the safe performance of elevators, and gaps in previous research. In the second stage, a comparative analysis of standards was conducted. In this stage, the requirements and guidelines of the Iranian National Building Regulations were compared with international standards and guidelines, including ISO, BS, ASME, and CEN, to identify their similarities, differences, strengths, and weaknesses. In addition, the reasons for these differences and their effects on the applicability and efficiency of the systems were analyzed. In the third stage, based on the findings of the previous two stages and a review of the theoretical foundations and international experiences, the current status of evacuation elevator utilization in Iran was assessed. A set of practical recommendations was then developed to increase safety, enhance reliability, and improve the speed of emergency evacuation operations.
Findings: The use of evacuation elevators is contingent upon full compliance with design and safety requirements and the provision of the necessary infrastructure. These requirements include equipping buildings with fire detection and suppression systems, providing fire-resistant refuge areas, and developing comprehensive emergency evacuation plans. The selection of equipment should be adapted to the needs of different occupant groups, particularly vulnerable individuals, and the design of these systems should be carried out in close coordination among engineers, architects, and safety authorities. According to international standards, several primary modes of operation have been defined. In automatic mode, the elevator operates under the control of the building management system and does not require an operator. Manual operation requires the presence of an operator and is mainly used in specialized facilities such as nursing homes. Remote-assisted operation is also available, in which elevator operation is controlled and monitored from a control center. These modes require supporting infrastructure, including two-way communication systems, status displays, and independent emergency power supplies, to ensure the safe operation of the elevator during emergencies. An assessment of the current situation in Iran indicates that the national building regulations lack comprehensive and localized standards and guidelines in this area. This regulatory gap and the absence of clearly defined requirements have resulted in many high-rise buildings lacking the necessary infrastructure, leaving emergency evacuation largely dependent on stairways. While in leading countries evacuation elevators are considered an integral part of crisis management plans, there is an urgent need in Iran to revise regulations, develop specialized guidelines, and mandate compliance with international standards. The use of this technology can improve occupant safety, facilitate the evacuation of individuals with limited mobility, and reduce the physical and psychological stress caused by emergency situations.
Conclusion: The critical role of time in the emergency evacuation of buildings and the existing evidence regarding occupant behavior highlight the importance of elevators as an essential component of crisis management planning. This approach has led to revisions in regulations and the development of new international standards that permit the safe use of elevators during emergencies. Contrary to common perceptions, evacuation elevators, when properly designed and equipped, can significantly increase evacuation speed and enhance the safety of vulnerable individuals. In high-rise buildings, elevators serve as an effective means of transporting individuals who are unable to use stairways. The reliable operation of these systems requires independent emergency power supplies, safe refuge areas, and clearly defined operational procedures. In addition, training building occupants and staff on the proper use of this equipment is essential. Although measures such as installing fire service elevators and providing protected spaces have improved safety to some extent, significant challenges remain in meeting the needs of elderly individuals and those with mobility limitations. The widespread use of this technology in Iran requires the development of localized standards and further specialized research. This study recommends developing comprehensive regulations for the design, installation, and operation of evacuation elevators, implementing training programs for building managers and emergency personnel, and conducting periodic inspections to ensure the safe operation of these systems. Implementing these measures can significantly enhance the safety of high-rise buildings and reduce risks during emergencies.