Updated on May 10, 2018
On Wednesday May 2, 2018, the third reading debate on
Bill 8, Access to Consumer Credit Reports and Elevator Availability Act took place. Many industry personnel took the time to attend and voice their concerns. Unfortunately, they were unsuccessful in amending the Bill. The Bill was carried and given Royal Assent by the Lieutenant Governor, officially making the bill a law.
The province’s action plan to improve elevator availability calls for existing maintenance requirements to be further policed; for elevator performance data to be made available to prospective multi-residential home buyers and renters; and for new standards to be created for how much elevator capacity is required in new high-rise buildings.
Many of the industry professionals who spoke at the readings advised that stakeholders were not consulted prior to the introduction of the Bill and, as a result, there will be consequences for the general public. Elevator companies highlighted that the government is creating a perfect storm of higher costs and unlimited liability that could drive elevator service companies out of business in Ontario. The new stiff penalties for elevator downtime are likely to make contractors unwilling to take on the liability of maintenance contracts for obsolete elevators, those in certain remote regions, or buildings with known recurring problems with their elevators. Vertical transportation is a complex industry relying on numerous supply chains. Specialty parts take time to arrive, and older equipment often requires time-consuming re-manufacturing by third-party shops.
Industry representatives did not deny that elevator availability needs to be addressed. The issue is that the Bill focuses on elevator downtime while ignoring the reasons why this occurs. The lack of qualified mechanics, the repealed Directors Order for single speed elevators, the timeliness of maintenance, accessibility of parts, the willingness of owners to pay for regular maintenance and upgrades, and more all play a part in elevator downtime.
Although the industry representatives submitted amendments to improve the Bill, their words were ignored.
According to Tracy MacCharles, Minister of Government and Consumer Services, the plan is to consult with industry representatives for their input and expertise in deciding what the standards should look like. “We heard from a lot of people during debate, and I want them all to know that we’re committed to continuing our work with them. I know we can count on them to continue to provide constructive feedback as regulations are developed.”
You can read the full transcripts here.
FIELDBOSS was very disheartened by the results of the debate and the passing of the Bill.
We created FIELDBOSS Lift to help elevator service companies overcome complex industry challenges. Contractors using FIELDBOSS Lift can have dashboard views of what the TSSA will be monitoring as part of the new elevator law. Contact FIELDBOSS and learn how we can help you stay compliant and avoid fines.
FIELDBOSS is a proud member of CECA and a supporter of the elevator industry.
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