Accessibility Gap

Elevator mechanics in Puerto Rico need a Spanish version of ASME A17.1.

by David Guerin 

Elevator mechanics in Puerto Rico face a significant challenge: The primary regulatory standard governing their work, American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) A17.1, is only available in English. This code, which establishes safety standards for elevators, escalators and related equipment, is crucial for ensuring safe installation, maintenance and modernization. However, the language barrier presents a substantial risk to both workers and the general public.

The Challenge

Puerto Rico, a U.S. jurisdiction, operates under the same safety regulations as the mainland. Yet, the mechanics responsible for upholding these standards often struggle to access vital information due to language limitations. The lack of an official Spanish translation of ASME A17.1 leaves mechanics without clear guidance, forcing them to rely on unofficial or incomplete translations. This gap in accessibility can lead to misinterpretations, errors in compliance and increased safety risks.

The responsibility to ensure Puerto Rico’s elevator mechanics have access to the same resources as their mainland counterparts falls on both regulatory bodies and industry leaders.

Need for a Spanish Translation

Safety codes are not just reference materials. They are the foundation of every mechanic’s training and daily responsibilities. In order to properly install, maintain and modernize elevators, mechanics must frequently refer to these codes. Without an official Spanish version, it becomes difficult for Spanish-speaking workers to fully comprehend and apply the standards effectively.

By providing ASME A17 in Spanish, we can:

• Ensure all mechanics fully understand the safety codes they are required to follow.
• Improve compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Reduce workplace accidents and enhance public safety.
• Strengthen training programs based on clear, standardized information.

The Call to Action

The responsibility to ensure Puerto Rico’s elevator mechanics have access to the same resources as their mainland counterparts falls on both regulatory bodies and industry leaders. We urge the ASME and other relevant organizations to prioritize the translation of ASME A17 into Spanish. Additionally, regulatory authorities must support the development of training programs that incorporate this translated material to ensure mechanics receive the education they need in their native language

Puerto Rico’s elevator mechanics deserve the same level of support, training and resources as those in the rest of the U.S. Ensuring accessibility to safety codes in Spanish is not just a convenience, it is a necessity for compliance, efficiency and, most importantly, safety. Let’s take action now to bridge this critical gap and provide the tools these professionals need to succeed.