Matt Barter

A recently obtained access-to-information request reveals that Memorial University received 168 reports of University Centre elevator outages over the past five years. 

According to the record, Facilities Management received 168 notifications or reports regarding elevator outages. The university noted that this figure includes instances in which multiple reports were submitted for the same issue and therefore differs from the number of maintenance calls attended. 

The record states that maintenance personnel attended 158 elevator service calls during the past five years. Facilities Management said the elevators were fixed 158 times, including instances in which responders found the elevator functioning properly upon arrival. 

Since the introduction of the MUNSafe notification process in late 2022, the university has issued 43 notifications to the campus community regarding University Centre elevator outages. 

The record states that Facilities Management does not track how long it takes to restore elevator service after an outage. Instead, it records when a work order is created and when it is closed. The university noted that work orders may remain open for several days after repairs are completed to ensure the elevator is functioning properly or while waiting for invoices before being closed. 

The university identified TK Elevators (TKE) as the current service and maintenance contractor for all three elevators in the University Centre. Over the past five years, Memorial spent $12,831.49 on service and maintenance work, in addition to a $36,000 contract covering all three elevators. 

Facilities Management stated that elevator calls are treated as a high priority and addressed as soon as possible. TKE advised that its priority for elevator service calls is as follows: (1) entrapments, (2) health care facilities, and (3) all other facilities.

View the ATIPP file below:

Matt Barter is a graduate of the Humanities and Social Sciences Faculty at Memorial University of Newfoundland, holding a degree in Political Science with a minor in Sociology. He enjoys reading thought-provoking articles, taking walks in nature, and volunteering in the community.