How does elevator maintenance and inspection work in Quebec?

Maintenance and inspection of elevators in Quebec are governed by the RBQ and ASME A17.1:

Regular maintenance:

• Monthly: Verification of safety devices (safety gear, overspeed governor, brakes, door locks). Cleaning and lubrication of guide rails, cables, and sheaves. Testing of call buttons and emergency communication
• Quarterly: Thorough inspection of electrical wiring, contacts, and control panel. Checking traction cable tension
• Annual: Complete inspection by an RBQ inspector. Safety gear load test (with a test weight). Checking grounding and insulation resistance

Documentation: A maintenance log must be kept in the machine room. It contains the date of each intervention, work performed, and the mechanic's signature.

Common breakdowns:

• Misaligned landing doors (most frequent cause of shutdown)
• Oxidized interlock contacts
• Worn traction belts (MRL elevators)
• Hydraulic oil leaks (hydraulic elevators)

An annual maintenance contract for a residential elevator is not priced by the RBQ: its cost is negotiated with the maintenance company. The fees the Régie charges the owner (annual fee per device, inspections) are published in its schedule indexed every January 1.