A mandatory periodic test that verifies the overspeed governor trips at the correct speed and activates the safety gear under load conditions.
Full Definition
Governor testing is one of the most safety-critical maintenance tests. It involves driving the elevator downward at rated speed with the car carrying rated load, then mechanically or electrically tripping the governor to verify that it: (a) operates at or below the specified trip speed; (b) the governor rope transmits force to the safety gear; and (c) the safety gear arrests the car within the prescribed deceleration and stopping distance limits. EN 81-20 Annex N specifies test intervals (typically 2 years for progressive safety gear). The test must be witnessed by a competent person, and results must be recorded in the maintenance log. Guide rails must be inspected after the test for damage.
