Being stuck in a lift is rare, but when it happens it can be frightening. The most important thing to know is that you are safe: a lift cabin is designed to stay secure even when it stops. What you do next matters. This short guide explains the right steps for passengers, security staff and building managers.
If you are inside the lift
- Stay calm. Take slow breaths. The lift will not fall; brakes and safety systems hold the cabin.
- Press the alarm or intercom button and keep it pressed briefly. Speak clearly and tell them your building, lift and floor.
- Call for help on your phone if there is network: the building security, the manager or the lift service company.
- Do not force the doors open, and do not try to climb out through any opening or the roof hatch.
- Do not jump or push against the walls or doors.
- Wait for trained help. Only qualified technicians or trained rescue staff should release passengers.
- Look after others. Reassure children and elders, and help anyone who feels unwell to sit down.
If you are outside and hear someone
- Talk to them through the door, tell them help is coming and keep them calm.
- Call security and the lift service company immediately.
- Do not try to open the doors with tools or force.
- Stay near until the technician arrives.
What security staff and managers should do
- Keep the lift service company's emergency number at the security desk and in the cabin.
- Confirm how many people are inside, who they are and whether anyone needs medical help.
- Call the service company and give the building address, lift number and the number of passengers.
- Call the emergency services if someone is unwell.
- Record the time, the lift and the cause if known, and keep the service report.
Why lifts stop
Common reasons include a power failure, a door fault, a sensor problem or a safety device that has tripped. Power failures can be handled with backup power or an automatic rescue device. Regular maintenance reduces the chance of other faults. See our lift safety features checklist.
Prevention: what buildings can do
- Keep a maintenance contract and follow the service schedule.
- Report jerks, noises and door problems early.
- Display emergency numbers clearly and test the alarm and intercom regularly.
- Train security staff in the rescue procedure.
Our lift safety checklist for apartments and RWAs gives a full routine for committees.
Talk to a lift company near you in Bangalore
If your building needs a faster response or a better maintenance plan, we can help. Eider Elevators is a lift company and elevator company in Bangalore with an office in Battarahalli on Old Madras Road. We install lifts and elevators, and we provide lift service, repair and AMC across the city. See the areas we serve, or contact our team for a site visit and quotation.
Key takeaways
- If stuck: stay calm, use the alarm or intercom, call for help and never force the doors.
- Only trained technicians should release passengers.
- Prevent problems with regular maintenance, clear emergency numbers and trained security staff.
