Elevator installers and repairers held about 20,700 jobs in 2014, of which 89 percent were in the building equipment contractors industry. In contrast to other construction trades, few elevator installers and repairers are self-employed.
Elevator installers and repairers often work in cramped quarters inside crawl spaces and machine rooms, and may be exposed to heights in elevator shafts.
Although installation and major repairs require mechanics to work in teams, workers often work alone when troubleshooting minor problems.
Injuries and Illnesses
Elevator installers and repairers may suffer falls from ladders, burns due to electrical shocks, and muscle strains from lifting and carrying heavy equipment. As a result, workers must take precaution and wear protective equipment such as hard hats, harnesses, and safety glasses.
Work Schedules
Almost all elevator installers and repairers work full time. They often work overtime when emergency repairs need to be made or construction deadlines need to be met. Workers may sometimes be on call 24 hours a day.