Resolution Pushes for Modern Elevator Standards in BC

A Saanich, British Columbia (BC), Canada-led resolution urging the province to modernize elevator standards has been approved by the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM), Saanich News reports. The resolution calls on the province to allow the use of smaller, internationally standardized elevators commonly used in Europe and Asia. Currently, BC’s building code requires North American elevator standards, which require larger cabins. The resolution could lower housing costs and improve accessibility in low- and mid-rise buildings. A recent report by the Centre for Building found Canada has approximately four elevators per 1,000 people, far fewer than many other developed countries, which is attributed to higher costs and stricter standards. The proposal does not seek to replace large elevators in high-rise buildings; however, it makes elevators more feasible where they are currently absent. The resolution has been forwarded to the provincial government.