In July 2022, the State of Kansas implemented new requirements through the Office of State Fire Marshal for the permitting and construction of all work related to the construction, modification, maintenance, and inspection of elevators throughout the State, including those operated by State agencies. Concurrently, OFPM has clarified their plan review and permitting requirements regarding elevator modernization projects.
The existing elevator at Umberger Hall at Kansas State University was originally installed as a traction machine in the 1950's, and was replaced with a hydraulic machine in the early 1990's. That 30+ year old machine is past the end of it's expected service life and has been unreliable. Parts are not readily available and maintenance is difficult. As such, KSU is modernizing the elevator with new machinery and controls.
The timing of this project is such that it will be the first elevator modernization project that KSU will complete under the new rules and regulations surrounding elevators, and they were seeking outside help to walk them through the process and to provide the design and permit drawings necessary. KSU decided to work with BG Consultants based on BG's knowledge of elevator codes and the evolving State requirements.
BG worked with the University and their selected equipment vendor, TKE, to review existing conditions, determine any needed improvements to utility connections for the replacement equipment, and to determine if building or system improvements were needed to support the installation in alignment with modern codes. The target to complete the modernization work during the summer of 2024 was met, with the design effort completed early and all permits obtained well ahead of the arrival of equipment to allow for an orderly progression of the work.