A mechanical device clamped beneath the car that grips the guide rails to stop a free-falling or overspeeding elevator.
Full Definition
Safety gear (also called a safety catch or parachute device) is mounted on the car frame beneath the platform. When the overspeed governor triggers or a rope breaks, a linkage lifts the wedge- or roller-type clamps into contact with the guide rails. Friction decelerates the car within the distance prescribed by EN 81-20 Table 2. Progressive types apply gradual clamping force to limit deceleration to 1 g; instantaneous types engage in a single sharp action and are limited to lower-speed applications. Testing requires a full-load governor trip test.
