Which code governs the installation and maintenance of elevators in the United States?

The governance of elevator installation and maintenance in the United States is primarily guided by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) A17.1 code. This code establishes safety standards for elevators, escalators, and moving walks, addressing a wide range of issues including design, construction, installation, maintenance, inspection, and operation. The intent of ASME A17.1 is to ensure that elevators are safe for public use and that they meet specific performance criteria.

In contrast, while the National Electric Code (NEC) does include important electrical safety requirements that could apply to elevator systems, it does not specifically cover all aspects of elevator safety and functionality. Similarly, ANSI Z9.5 focuses on ventilation and safety in industrial settings rather than elevator systems, making it less relevant in this context. OSHA standards provide regulatory guidelines for workplace safety but do not directly govern elevator maintenance and installation specifics. Hence, ASME A17.1 is the authoritative code for this field, making it the correct choice.