Detroit Door Lock Monitoring Requirements

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Key Facts & Code Context

  1. Michigan Adoption of ASME A17.3
    • The State of Michigan (via its Bureau of Construction Codes / Elevator Safety Board) adopted ASME A17.3 (safety code for existing elevators) on June 27, 2023. Michigan.gov+2bhsj.org+2
    • Specifically, the 2015 edition of A17.3 is being applied. bhsj.org+1
  2. Door Lock Monitoring (DLM) Requirement
    • Under ASME A17.3, Section 3.10.12 requires a “system to monitor and prevent automatic operation of the elevator with faulty door contact circuits.” That is, the elevator control must detect when doors are not properly closed/locked and prevent movement. ADAMS Elevator+1
    • Michigan’s adoption makes this requirement retroactive: existing elevators must comply. bhsj.org
  3. Compliance Deadline
    • The “grace period” (or compliance window) runs until January 1, 2028. ATIS+1
    • Interestingly, earlier communications (e.g., from Schindler) referenced a different date (e.g., “by 6/27/2024”), but the official state-announced effective date for certain code provisions is Jan 1, 2028. Michigan.gov
    • This discrepancy suggests: some earlier interpretations (or company proposals) may have been more aggressive, or there may have been earlier internal deadlines, but the state’s formal rule-making documents point to Jan 1, 2028. Michigan.gov
  4. Permit & Inspection Implications
    • Because adding a DLM system may constitute an alteration, a licensed elevator contractor will likely need to pull a permit.
    • After installation, the upgrade would be inspected and accepted by a Detroit elevator inspector to verify compliance.
  5. Risk & Enforcement
    • Building owners who delay may face a few risks:
      • Vendor & scheduling bottlenecks, since many elevators may need upgrades. (Schindler specifically warns of 12+ week lead times for DLM modules.) bhsj.org
      • Inspection non-compliance: once the state rule is fully enforced, inspectors may issue correction orders. (This was stated in some vendor-proposal documentation.) bhsj.org
      • Cost escalation: delays could mean higher costs later due to increased demand, parts lead times, or labor constraints.

Implications for Properties in Detroit / Michigan

  • Portfolio Assessment Needed: Property owners (especially for multi-building or multi-elevator portfolios) should conduct an inventory: which elevators already have DLM (or equivalent monitoring), and which do not.
  • Professional Evaluation: Bring in a qualified elevator consultant or contractor to evaluate each elevator. In some cases, only a software parameter change may be needed; in others, hardware overlay or a dedicated monitor controller may be required. ATIS+1
  • Budgeting: Estimate and budget for the retrofit now. Doing so early gives more flexibility for negotiation, planning, and minimizes risk of being squeezed by high demand near the deadline.
  • Permit & Scheduling: Start permit applications early, especially if the retrofit qualifies as an “alteration”. Coordinate with your elevator contractor on scheduling to minimize downtime.
  • Engage Inspectors / AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction): Understand how local inspectors will enforce the rule. Clarify with the Michigan Elevator Safety Division (or local entity) what inspection will look like once the upgrade is installed.

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