Uncontrolled elevators?/ ISHMT raises the alarm about safety in buildings and workplaces

2026-01-06 14:16:00, Aktualitet CNA

Uncontrolled elevators?/ ISHMT raises the alarm about safety in buildings and

Elevators, which are used by thousands of citizens every day in residential buildings and workplaces, continue to pose a serious risk when they are not registered, maintained and inspected according to the law. For this reason, the State Market Surveillance Inspectorate (ISHMT) has issued a public appeal, recalling that elevator safety is not a choice, but a legal obligation.

According to the ISHMT, the legal framework in force for the safety of elevators and the administration of condominiums in buildings clearly stipulates the responsibilities of the persons who administer these devices. Administrators or management companies are responsible for registering each elevator with the ISHMT, for ensuring a valid maintenance contract with qualified entities, as well as for carrying out periodic technical inspections according to the deadlines set out in the by-laws.

Albanian legislation, harmonized with European standards, requires that elevators be safe throughout their entire life cycle. For elevators in residential and condominium buildings, periodic inspections must be carried out at least once a year, while for elevators used in workplaces, technical inspections are more frequent. Without these inspections and without the relevant documentation, the use of the elevator is considered illegal and potentially dangerous.

The ISHMT emphasizes that the lack of registration, regular maintenance or periodic inspections significantly increases the risk of technical defects and accidents, putting everyday users at risk. For this reason, the inspectorate exercises on-site controls and, in case of violations, may impose administrative measures, up to and including the ban on the use of the elevator, if a serious safety risk is found.

The appeal of the ISHMT comes at a time when a significant part of the elevators in the country are old or not managed according to legal requirements. The institution calls on administrators and co-owners to show responsibility, respecting legal obligations, as the safety of elevators is not only a technical issue, but an essential element of protecting the life and health of citizens./ Monitor