North Carolina Faces Shortage of Elevator Inspectors

Like many states across the country, North Carolina faces a shortage of elevator inspectors, WCNC Charlotte reports. Labor Commissioner Josh Dobson said that safety is top of mind amid a shortage of state workers. Sometimes elevators do not get inspected annually, he added. Charlotte Fire has responded to at least 450 elevator rescues so far this year. Mechanical failure due to overloading and power loss are the most common causes of entrapments. Dobson said efforts are being made to recruit and retain elevator inspectors, including increased pay, bonuses and paid family leave. He aims to raise starting salaries to $70,000 and is confident that the staffing situation will improve over time.