A hatch in the elevator car roof or floor through which passengers can be evacuated in an emergency.
Full Definition
The elevator emergency trap door is an openable panel — typically located in the car roof — used as an emergency egress or rescue access point when normal door evacuation is not possible. EN 81-20 clause 5.7.3 requires that where roof trap doors are fitted they must be self-closing, openable from outside (hoistway access or car roof) but not openable from inside by passengers, and interlocked with a safety switch that stops car motion when open. Minimum dimensions are 0.35 m × 0.5 m. Floor trap doors are less common but required in some configurations where bottom evacuation is needed. Emergency procedures and trap door location must be posted in the car. Emergency services and maintenance personnel must be trained in its use.
