Singapore Elevator Market Safety Code: What Building Owners Must Know

Introduction

The Singapore Elevator Market is renowned for its stringent safety regulations and proactive stance on urban infrastructure management. In 2025, the city-state is making significant updates to its Elevator Safety Code, which will directly impact building owners, property managers, developers, and elevator service providers. These regulations are designed to align with global best practices, embrace new technologies, and enhance passenger safety in both commercial and residential buildings.

Singapore's 2025 elevator safety code, what building owners must know, and how to ensure compliance. We'll also explore how technological advancements, maintenance protocols, and AI-integrated systems are being reshaped by these regulatory updates.

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Why the Elevator Safety Code is Being Updated in 2025

Singapore's vertical infrastructure has grown dramatically over the last decade. With over 70,000 elevators in operation, frequent incidents related to mechanical wear, poor maintenance, or outdated systems prompted the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) to modernize its regulatory framework.

Key reasons for the 2025 code revision include:

• Technological advancements (e.g., AI, IoT, remote monitoring)

• Aging elevator systems in older buildings

• Rising population and vertical density

• Sustainability goals aligned with the Green Mark certification

• Global harmonization with international elevator safety standards (e.g., EN81, ISO 25745)

Key Features of the 2025 Elevator Safety Code

1. Mandatory Smart Monitoring Systems

All commercial and residential buildings must equip elevators with real-time monitoring systems by the end of 2025.

Benefits:

• Immediate detection of faults

• Predictive maintenance alerts

• Reduced downtime

Major elevator companies like Schindler, KONE, and Mitsubishi Electric have already started integrating IoT-based solutions in compliance with this rule.

2. Increased Frequency of Maintenance Checks

The new code requires:

• Monthly basic maintenance for all elevators

• Quarterly comprehensive inspections by certified personnel

• Annual audits by independent inspectors registered with BCA

Non-compliance can lead to fines, operational suspension, or revocation of licenses.

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3. Compulsory Modernization for Systems Over 15 Years Old

Elevators installed before 2010 must undergo:

• Control system upgrades

• Emergency communication enhancements

• Door safety mechanism installations

This applies even if elevators have passed previous inspections, ensuring older systems are upgraded to modern standards.

4. Enhanced Passenger Safety Features

• Two-way emergency communication systems linked to a 24/7 call center

• Automatic rescue devices (ARD) for power failure situations

• Infrared door sensors to prevent accidental closures

These features are now mandatory in both new installations and retrofits.

5. Energy Efficiency Requirements

Elevator systems must comply with:

• Green Mark requirements under the BCA’s Environmental Sustainability regulations

• Standby mode features when idle

• Regenerative drives that recycle energy during braking

Penalties for Non-Compliance

The BCA has outlined a strict penalty framework:

• First-time offense: Warning and mandatory rectification within 30 days

• Second offense: Fine of up to SGD 20,000

• Third offense: Suspension of building’s vertical transport operation license

Building owners must also notify tenants of any service suspensions, or face tenant rights violations under URA regulations.

How to Prepare for Compliance

1. Audit Your Current Elevator Systems

Conduct a comprehensive audit with a licensed service provider to:

• Assess age and functionality

• Identify modernization requirements

• Check compliance gaps

2. Upgrade to Smart Elevator Systems

Consider adopting AI-integrated systems from leading brands:

• KONE 24/7 Connected Services

• Schindler Ahead

• Otis ONE These platforms offer predictive maintenance, real-time analytics, and remote diagnostics.

3. Train Your Staff

Building management personnel must be trained in:

• Operating new emergency systems

• Using real-time monitoring dashboards

• Reporting and logging maintenance issues

4. Engage with BCA-Approved Inspectors

Work with registered inspectors for annual audits and certifications. A list of BCA-approved elevator auditors will be available on the official portal starting January 2025.

Case Studies: Early Adopters of the 2025 Code

1. CapitaLand's Funan Mall

• Installed regenerative drives and smart dispatching systems

• Reduced energy consumption by 25%

• Zero reported downtime since mid-2024

2. Mapletree Business City

• Integrated Schindler PORT technology

• Achieved Green Mark Platinum rating for elevators

• Real-time alerts decreased service disruption time by 40%

The Role of Technology in Meeting 2025 Standards

AI & Predictive Analytics

• Anticipate mechanical failures

• Schedule maintenance before issues arise

Internet of Things (IoT)

• Continuous remote monitoring

• Real-time reporting to BCA and service providers

Cloud Integration

• Secure, centralized maintenance logs

• Real-time access for inspectors and facility managers

Cybersecurity Measures

Given the digital nature of these systems, compliance includes:

• End-to-end encryption

• Periodic vulnerability assessments

• ISO 27001 certification for software providers

Conclusion

The 2025 Elevator Safety Code in Singapore represents a bold step forward in ensuring the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of vertical transportation systems. For building owners, this is not just a regulatory burden but an opportunity to future-proof assets, enhance tenant satisfaction, and improve operational resilience.

Early adoption and strategic planning will ensure a smooth transition and position your property as a leader in smart, safe, and sustainable infrastructure.