What is a Shunt Trip Test?

Written By Sean McMannis

We commonly receive this question and it is almost always generated after the building receives an Inspection Report from the City or State of Washington. For example, a correction on the Inspection Report may read like this: WAC 296-96-00675(8): Perform annual test of elevator shunt-trip device. Test is to include heat detectors or flow switches.

So what is it? When it comes to elevators, a shunt-trip device is required when water from sprinklers could cause unsafe elevator operation. To simplify, if there are sprinklers in your machine room or elevator hoistway, you have a shunt-trip device. Heat detectors are located in the hoistway and/or machine room. If those detectors are initiated, the fire panel will send a signal to the shunt-trip device. This will remove power from the elevator, stopping it wherever it is, so that it will not malfunction when the sprinkler discharges.

1. The initiating devices (heat detectors) and shunt-trip will need to be tested. Generally, this is done during your annual building confidence testing.

  • A fire/life safety contractor will test the heat and smoke detectors.

  • A Class 1 electrician is needed to test the shunt-trip.

2. An elevator mechanic is only needed to provide access if the heat detectors are located in the hoistway. If devices are only in the machine room, an elevator mechanic is not required. Often, building owners prefer to have an elevator mechanic onsite in case the elevator does not reset after the test.

3. Once complete, the test should be signed off by the person who performed the test. The form should be conspicuously posted in the elevator machine room. SEE THE EXAMPLE FORM ABOVE. If not, it can be found here: Hydraulic or Traction.  And finally, be sure to notify the City or State when all discrepancies have been completed. 

If you really want to get into the weeds, the WAC references the elevator code (Specifically, ASME A17.1, 8.6.4.19.6). It states: At least once each year, the fire alarm initiating devices associated with elevator recall and shunt trip initiating devices shall be tested to ensure they are still properly interfaced with the elevator control. Deficiencies shall be corrected. A record of findings shall be available to elevator personnel and the authority having jurisdiction. This test applies to electric and hydraulic elevators.

In short, if you are written up for testing of initiating and/or shunt-trip devices, you need to call a fire/life safety contractor and/or electrician and possibly your elevator service provider. 

Still have questions, we’re happy to help! Call or email our Chief Problem Solver, Sean (206) 482-5119.

Sean McMannis

There is nothing that Sean enjoys more than helping a customer solve an elevator issue. Since 2008, he has witnessed a deterioration in the services provided throughout the industry. Sean prides himself on being responsive and honest. He takes the time to educate elevator owners and help them understand their options. After spending time at various elevator companies, Sean joined Washington Elevator because he believes building owners and managers crave a company focused on people, not profits.

With more than 15 years of elevator experience, Sean’s goal is to proactively address all elevator issues so that you can focus on your business.

When Sean isn’t helping customers, you can find him playing on the soccer field, cheering on the Sounders and enjoying activities with his wife and their two young kids.

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