A trapdoor or hatch in the elevator car roof or wall that provides an escape route for trapped passengers or access for rescue personnel.
Full Definition
Car emergency exits are required by EN 81-20 in elevator cars to enable self-rescue or assisted rescue in the event of entrapment between floors. A roof trapdoor is the most common form, providing access to the car roof for trained rescue personnel. The hatch must be large enough for a person to pass through and must be openable from outside without a key and from inside with a special tool to prevent misuse. Wall emergency exits between adjacent cars in the same group are also permitted. Emergency exit opening triggers a safety circuit that prevents car movement. Compliance is verified during acceptance testing and periodic inspections.
