Elevator Safety in Turkey: Understanding the Colored Sticker System

Elevators in Turkey: A Vital Part of Urban Life

Elevators are essential in Turkey, especially in cities with high-rise buildings. To ensure public safety, the Turkish government enforces strict regulations for elevator maintenance and inspections. One of the most visible aspects of this system is the colored sticker placed inside elevators after each inspection. These stickers—red, yellow, blue, and green—indicate the elevator’s safety status and the urgency of required repairs.

What Each Colored Sticker Means

Red Sticker: Critical Issues

A red sticker indicates critical safety issues that pose an immediate risk to passengers. Elevators with a red sticker must be taken out of service until repairs are completed. Examples of issues include:

• Malfunctioning brakes or safety gears
• Broken or missing emergency stop buttons
• Faulty door locks or sensors (doors not closing properly)
• Electrical wiring issues posing a fire hazard
• Structural damage to the elevator shaft or cabin

If issues are not fixed, the municipality can permanently seal off the elevator.

Yellow Sticker: Moderate Issues

A yellow sticker signifies moderate issues that need to be addressed promptly, though they do not pose an immediate danger. Examples include:

• Worn-out or noisy cables
• Minor electrical faults (e.g., flickering lights, non-functional buttons)
• Misaligned doors or slow door operation
• Minor hydraulic leaks (for hydraulic elevators)
• Worn-out floor or wall panels inside the cabin

If unresolved, the complex may face fines, and the elevator must undergo further inspections, potentially leading to a red sticker if problems worsen.

Blue Sticker: Minor Issues

A blue sticker indicates minor issues that do not pose an immediate safety risk but should be addressed within a year. Examples include:

• Cosmetic damage (e.g., scratched walls, faded buttons)
• Minor rust or corrosion in non-critical components
• Non-urgent maintenance tasks (e.g., lubrication of moving parts)

Neglecting these issues can lead to more serious problems over time.

Green Sticker: No Issues Found

A green sticker means the elevator is in perfect working condition, with no defects detected during the inspection.

Who Is Responsible for Elevator Safety?

Building owners and managers are legally responsible for ensuring elevators are regularly inspected and maintained. If an accident occurs due to neglected maintenance, they can be held legally and financially liable. All check-ups must be done by authorized inspection companies. If negligence is proven, they may also share responsibility.

Is There an Online Register to Check Elevator Status?

Yes, the report for each elevator can be found online on the Turkish Standard Institute (TSE) website. Building owners and managers can also request inspection reports from authorized inspection bodies. Individual owners can request the report from the building manager or administrator.

Additional Tips for Elevator Safety

• Check the sticker inside the elevator to understand its safety status.
• Report issues if you notice an elevator with a red or yellow sticker that hasn’t been repaired within the specified timeframe.
• Use stairs when possible for a healthy alternative.

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