When specifying new elevator installations, correctly integrating Fire Service Phase I and II operations is essential to passing inspection and ensuring both code compliance and life safety. Many project teams overlook critical details in these fire recall systems, resulting in costly re-inspections and last-minute design changes. At Kaiser Elevator, we frequently guide architects, developers, and property managers through the specific steps to get it right the first time—eliminating schedule risk and protecting building occupants.
What Are Fire Service Phase I and II Operations?
Phase I and Phase II fire service recall modes are specialized control states that prepare elevators for firefighter use during building emergencies. They are mandatory for most high-rise and commercial projects and directly impact certificate of occupancy, inspection approval, and building handover timelines.
- Phase I Recall: Automatically returns the elevator to the designated main floor and removes it from regular service upon fire alarm activation. This frees the car for emergency responders and prevents ordinary occupants from inadvertently using the elevator during a fire.
- Phase II Operation: Allows manual operation by firefighters from inside the car, overriding hall calls and sensor automation for precise firefighter control—vital for search, rescue, and equipment transport activities.
When Are Fire Service Operations Required?
Most U.S. jurisdictions, following IBC Section 403.6.1 and ASME A17.1, require at least two Fire Service Access Elevators (FSAEs) with Phase I and II features in:
- Buildings with the highest occupied floor more than 120 feet above the lowest fire department vehicle access
- Facilities with complex occupancy types, such as healthcare, hospitality, and high-density residential or mixed-use developments
It’s crucial to confirm requirements with the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) before design begins, as local codes may introduce exceptions or tighter restrictions. At Kaiser Elevator, we recommend securing early written guidance from your local building/fire officials—often a game-changer in preventing redesigns during inspection.
Fire Service Operations: A Concise Definition
Fire Service Phase I/II recall systems are programmed control logic and hardware, integrated with both building fire alarm and standby power systems, enabling elevators to be recalled to a designated floor and operated manually by firefighters during emergencies. The configuration includes special panels, keyed switches, emergency lighting, annunciators, and physical signage—each meeting explicit code requirements. Kaiser Elevator’s team continually updates its engineering practices to align with the latest national and local codes, ensuring clear, compliant solutions.
Step-by-Step Guide: Specifying Code-Compliant Phase I & II Elevator Systems
- Engage the AHJ Early
- Determine if your building’s height and use trigger FSAE requirements
- Request written confirmation of applicable rules and key technical preferences (like fire service key type, annunciator panel specifics, and minimum lobby dimensions)
- Integrate Fire Alarm Interfaces
- Specify a direct interface between the elevator controller and primary fire alarm system, including all required relays and detector points for Phase I auto-recall triggers
- Designate Standby and Emergency Power
- Work with MEP engineers and your elevator provider to guarantee standby power feeds both the elevator car and associated signaling (such as hoistway and lobby lighting)—one of the most common re-inspection stumbling blocks
- Size and Layout FSAE Lobbies Correctly
- Ensure each FSAE lobby meets or exceeds 150 square feet, is at least 8 feet in either direction, and serves an exit stair and fire standpipe system
- Include code-mandated smoke barriers and at least a 1-hour fire-resistance rating
- Specify Manual (Phase II) Controls with Precision
- Install Phase II control panels in lobbies, placed where local officials want them, with documented approval in advance
- Use compliant key switches, signage, and indicator lights per code and local fire department requirements
- Car Size and Accessibility
- At least one FSAE must accommodate a 24-by-84-inch stretcher
- Document these dimensions in architectural and elevator vendor submittals
- Signage and Annunciation
- Call out the installation of firefighter hat symbols on both sides of elevator doors and ensure lobby directional signage is clear and in English
- Annunciator panels at fire command stations must give real-time status of FSAE recall and smoke detector activation per AHJ guidance
- Factory Testing and Commissioning
- Require factory and on-site testing plans, with fire alarm simulation, Phase I/II function checks, and full reporting
- Secure signed documentation and photo evidence for all completed tests to present at inspection
- Documentation and Training
- Have your elevator provider deliver as-built wiring diagrams, operational instructions for building staff, and arrange in-person fire department training as part of project closeout
Best Practices to Avoid Re-Inspection
- Engage an experienced vertical-transportation consultant or manufacturer like Kaiser Elevator early (ideally at SD/DD stage) to confirm shaft, lobby, and power readiness, and to vet controls logic for local code quirks.
- Coordinate in detail with MEP engineers—elevator standby power and fire alarm triggers must be included in the electrical and fire alarm sets from day one.
- Submit Phase I/II control shop drawings to the AHJ prior to manufacturer sign-off or field installation—this is often required for permit approval.
- Review FSAE lobbies for adequate size, separation, and fire rating before submitting architectural plans to city officials.
- Document everything—not only testing but also fire department and AHJ sign-offs, and keep this packaged for final inspections and future reference.
- Schedule and execute fire service operation training for building staff and first responders as a non-negotiable turnover deliverable.
Common Pitfalls (and How Kaiser Elevator Prevents Them)
Through decades of navigating high-stakes elevator installs, we have identified the main reasons projects fail initial FSAE inspections:
- Standby power underestimated—Kaiser Elevator verifies backups support all elevator fire operations before shipment and tests on site
- Fire alarm interface gaps—our engineers coordinate directly with the fire alarm contractor to eliminate signal miswiring or improper activation triggers
- Lobby non-compliance—we consult early on lobby layouts to prevent mid-construction redesigns or rework
- Phase II panels misplaced or unlabeled—we secure AHJ and fire department sign-off on panel location and control hardware before ordering materials
- Documentation incomplete—Kaiser Elevator supplies detailed as-built diagrams, test reports, and training receipts with every closeout package, minimizing handover disputes
For more practical code coordination advice, see our internal guide on MEP and fire alarm interface best practices for elevator installations.
Specification Checklist: What to Include
- Statement of compliance with IBC, ASME A17.1/CSA B44, and local amendments
- Full fire alarm interface details (smoke detector triggers, signal wiring)
- Location and technical requirements for standby power feeds and hoistway/lobby lighting
- Lobby size, construction fire-resistance rating, exit stair/standpipe adjacency
- Ambulance stretcher accommodation (at least one FSAE/cab per building)
- Phase II (manual) panel design—location, height, key type, labeling, indicator requirements
- Firefighter hat (helmet) door symbols and clear directional lobby signage
- Annunciator panel requirements at fire command station with floor-by-floor monitoring
- Testing, commissioning, and documentation protocols for fire service operations
- Staff and emergency responder training requirements for Phase I and Phase II procedure
Key Takeaways for Specifiers and Project Teams
- Start collaboration with your elevator partner early—Kaiser Elevator brings detailed code knowledge to initial concept and schematic design meetings
- Lock in fire alarm and standby power coordination up front to avoid re-inspection risks
- Ensure transparent communication between architectural, MEP, and vertical transportation teams at every project phase
- Require and collect all manufacturer certificates, test reports, and AHJ approvals as standard turnover documents
- Include Phase I/II operation checks and maintenance in ongoing elevator service contracts
By following this proven approach, project teams can deliver elevators that pass the first round of inspection, minimize costly rework, and guarantee system performance under emergency conditions.
FAQ: Fire Service Phase I & II on New Elevator Installs
What triggers Phase I elevator recall?
Phase I recall is usually triggered through the building’s fire alarm system—primarily by smoke detectors in elevator lobbies, manual fire alarm pull stations, or other alarm devices as required by code and the local authority.
How is Phase II manual control used?
After Phase I recall places the elevator at the main floor, firefighters can enable Phase II using a special key switch. This allows them to move the car manually between floors, overriding all normal call and sensor functions.
Who is responsible for testing Phase I and II features?
Responsibility is shared: the elevator provider programs and tests fire service operations at the factory and on site, while the fire alarm and electrical contractors connect and validate the relevant triggers. Kaiser Elevator facilitates joint testing and provides full documentation as part of our closeout process.
Can you add Phase I/II recall to existing elevators?
Modernization is often possible for many passenger and service elevators, provided the structural cab and controls support it, and local code allows upgrades. Consult the experts at Kaiser Elevator to evaluate feasibility in your building.
What documentation should be supplied for fire service features?
As-built control wiring diagrams, written procedures for Phase I/II operation, fire alarm interface test reports, and fire department training records are standard. All should be retained for future inspections and staff onboarding.
What is the most common cause for re-inspection failure?
Insufficient standby power or incorrect fire alarm interface wiring. We address these by early team coordination and by holding on-site functional tests before final inspection.
Where can I learn more about elevator commissioning and testing?
See our resource on elevator acceptance testing for new installations for additional detail on the inspection process.
Contact Kaiser Elevator for Code-Compliant, Inspection-Ready Elevator Solutions
Properly implemented fire service operations keep occupants and first responders safe, and help you achieve construction closeout without project delays. If you need a partner with a proven record for passing first-time inspections and who can provide comprehensive, value-engineered vertical transportation packages, learn more about what sets us apart at Kaiser Elevator. Our team is here to collaborate—from design through commissioning—and ensure your next elevator install is ready for any emergency.
