If you own or manage a commercial building, there is a major change happening that directly affects your elevator systems. Traditional copper phone lines, also known as POTS lines, are being phased out. This shift has serious implications for your elevator emergency phone.
Many building owners are not aware of how urgent this transition is. If your system still relies on outdated copper infrastructure, you could face compliance issues, communication failures, or unexpected downtime.
Here is what you need to know and how to prepare.
What Is an Elevator Emergency Phone?
An elevator emergency phone is a critical safety feature that allows passengers to communicate with help in the event of an emergency. It is required by code in most commercial buildings and must provide reliable, two-way communication at all times.
Traditionally, these systems were connected through POTS lines. These analog copper lines were once considered the most dependable option. But that is no longer the case.
As telecom providers move away from maintaining copper infrastructure, the reliability of these lines is declining. In many areas, they are being fully discontinued.
Why POTS Lines Are Being Phased Out
Telecommunication companies are shifting to modern, digital networks. Maintaining old copper systems is expensive and inefficient, especially when newer technologies offer better performance.
As a result, POTS lines are being retired across the country. In some regions, service has already been shut off. In others, costs are rising quickly to maintain remaining lines.
For building owners, this means your elevator emergency phone may stop working properly if it still depends on copper lines. Even if it works today, it may not meet reliability standards moving forward.
How This Affects Your Building
The phase-out of POTS lines directly impacts the performance of your elevator emergency phone. If your system loses connection, passengers may not be able to call for help during an emergency.
This creates both safety risks and compliance concerns. Many local and national codes require that elevator communication systems function at all times. A failed connection could lead to violations or liability issues.
There is also the risk of unexpected service interruptions. Without a proactive upgrade, you could find yourself dealing with outages at the worst possible time.
Modern Alternatives to POTS Lines
The good news is that there are reliable, modern replacements available. Most upgrades involve switching your elevator emergency phone to a cellular or VoIP-based system.
Cellular-Based Systems
Cellular systems are one of the most common replacements. They use wireless networks instead of physical phone lines, which eliminates the dependency on copper infrastructure.
These systems are typically easier to install and can offer strong reliability when properly configured. They are also less vulnerable to physical line damage.
VoIP Solutions
Voice over Internet Protocol, or VoIP, is another option. These systems use your building’s internet connection to support communication.
While VoIP can be effective, it requires stable internet and proper backup power to ensure reliability during outages. This is an important consideration when evaluating options for your elevator emergency phone.
Compliance and Code Considerations
Upgrading your elevator emergency phone is not just about convenience. It is about staying compliant with safety regulations.
Codes often require continuous operation, battery backup, and clear communication quality. When replacing POTS lines, it is important to choose a solution that meets these standards.
Working with an experienced provider like Murphy Elevator can help ensure your system is installed and configured correctly. They understand the requirements and can guide you toward the right solution for your building.
Signs It Is Time to Upgrade
If you are unsure whether your building is affected, there are a few signs to look for:
- Your elevator emergency phone still uses a traditional landline
- You have noticed increased costs for phone line service
- You have experienced connection issues or dropped calls
- Your provider has notified you of service changes
Even if none of these have happened yet, it is smart to act early. Waiting until service is disrupted can lead to rushed decisions and higher costs.
How Murphy Elevator Can Help
Murphy Elevator works with building owners and property managers to modernize elevator systems, including communication upgrades.
They can assess your current setup, identify risks, and recommend the best path forward. Whether you need a full system upgrade or a targeted replacement, their team can handle the process from start to finish.
This kind of support is especially valuable when dealing with code requirements and evolving technology. You are not just upgrading equipment. You are protecting your building and the people inside it.
FAQ: Elevator Emergency Phone
What is an elevator emergency phone used for?
An elevator emergency phone allows passengers to communicate with emergency services or building staff if they become trapped or need assistance.
Do elevator emergency phones still use POTS lines?
Some older systems still rely on POTS lines, but these are being phased out. Most modern systems now use cellular or internet-based connections.
Is upgrading an elevator emergency phone required?
In many cases, yes. If your current system becomes unreliable or non-compliant due to POTS line removal, you will need to upgrade to meet safety codes.
What is the best replacement for a POTS-based elevator emergency phone?
Cellular systems are often the most reliable and widely used replacement. The best option depends on your building’s setup and connectivity.
Take the Next Step
The shift away from copper phone lines is already happening. Waiting too long to upgrade your elevator emergency phone can put your building at risk.
If you are unsure where your system stands, now is the time to find out. Contact Murphy Elevator to evaluate your current setup and explore reliable upgrade options. Their team can help you stay compliant, avoid disruptions, and keep your building safe.
Travis graduated from Indiana University with a Bachelor of Science in Marketing and Entrepreneurship before joining Murphy Elevator as an accounts receivable associate. Since then, Travis has worked as an Estimator and Marketing Director before ascending to the role of VP of Administration in 2006. He also serves as our Safety Director, and leads IT and accounts receivable.