Routine call messages in lift emergency calls

Routine call messages are an important part of the security architecture of emergency call systems in lifts. Their purpose is the early detection of malfunctioning emergency call systems. But how exactly do these messages work?

By Andreas Fritz

What is a routine call message anyway?

A routine call message is an automated test call sent at regular intervals by the emergency call system to a control centre. For testing purposes, the emergency call unit must automatically send a test call to the emergency call centre every three days.

This must occur via the same communication path as the emergency call. This routine check ensures that emergency calls can be reliably sent and received.

How is a routine call message sent?

1. Triggering of the message
The lift’s emergency call system activates the routine call message automatically (at least every 72 hours). What is vital in this regard is that the same telephone number is dialled as for the emergency call connection.

2. Receipt in the control centre
The control centre receives the message and processes the data transmitted. The messages received are documented and archived.

3. Automatic check
A system in the control centre analyses the message received. Receipt of the routine call within the prescribed time is checked. If it was not received within these three days, an alarm is automatically triggered.

4. Missing message
If a routine call fails to occur, the control centre informs the service provider responsible for the emergency call system (e.g. manufacturer, maintenance company, specialised company for lift emergency calls). The latter undertake troubleshooting and if necessary contact the manufacturer.

Measures for when routine call messages fail to occur

The failure of a routine call message indicates there may be a problem in the emergency call system or network connection. You can take the following steps to correct this problem.

1. Check accessibility
The emergency call system is dialled directly to check whether it can be reached.

2. Troubleshooting
If technically possible, experts initially try to find the cause for the failure remotely.

3. Manual test
If the problem cannot be remedied remotely, a test emergency call must be triggered from the car. This permits checking the system directly and helps to localise the problem.

4. Error correction
Once the cause has been identified, it can be remedied by a service technician on the spot.

5. Communicating with the operator
The service provider informs the operator of the incident and indicates the solution needed.

Conclusion: Routine call messages are more than just a technical requirement – they are an indispensable element for testing and ensuring the functionality of the lift emergency call. They guarantee that emergency call systems are at all times functional and that potential problems are detected early on.

The author is senior marketing manager for UNS GmbH, a service provider for lift emergency calls.

Possible causes for failure: Signal problems: weak GSM signal or mobile communications network malfunctions
Hardware error: e. g. due to overvoltage (lighting)
Software error

More information: uns-gmbh.de