Construction Elevator Intercom FAQs

A construction elevator intercom system is a communication system specifically designed for temporary elevators used on construction sites. It is similar in function to a regular elevator intercom system, but is built to withstand more extreme conditions, such as outdoor use and exposure to dust, debris, and other construction site hazards.

Key characteristics include: 

1. Rugged and weather-resistant design to protect against dust, debris, rain, and rough handling.
2. Push-to-talk functionality for convenient communication between workers in the cab and site supervisors or safety personnel.
3. Clear audio despite high ambient noise levels
4. Compliance with construction safety regulations, such as those related to fall protection, to ensure that workers can easily and quickly call for assistance.

A construction elevator intercom system is used to provide reliable communication between the users of a temporary or high-rise construction elevator and site personnel, ensuring safety on the construction site.

Q: What should I use in the elevator car when using wireless callboxes for an elevator intercom?
A: You could use another callbox with a power supply and remove it from auto turnoff mode, but the recommended solution is the RT1014 Commercial Wireless Intercom for the elevator. For a callbox in the elevator, use a power and relay cable (https://www.intercomsonline.com/power-and-relay-cable-for-compact-wireless-call-box) and a 12-volt DC 1-amp power supply (https://www.intercomsonline.com/12-volt-dc-1-amp-powersupply). Floor callboxes run on battery mode and wake up when the button is pressed.

Q: What would it cost to install a temporary wireless communication system between floors in a 180-foot tower in Canada with landings about 50 feet apart?
A: A suitable solution would be a UHF wireless call box system such as the RT1102 units. You can start with the IO1051 kit, which provides communication between one floor and one elevator or central station, and then add additional RT1102 call boxes for each landing or floor. For a tower with approximately four landings, you would install one unit per level. In Canada, there are a couple of available frequencies that do not require a license, and the units can be programmed to operate on those frequencies. Pricing for the kits and additional stations is available on the website.

Q: What intercom system do you recommend for a 12-story elevator project?
A: A suitable solution is to install an RT1064 unit inside the elevator and place an RT1102 unit on each floor. This configuration provides reliable communication across all levels of the building.

Q: What is the difference between the RT1064 sold individually and the one included in the IO1051 kit?
A: There is no difference in the actual components. The RT1064 is the same unit whether purchased individually or as part of the IO1051 kit — the kit simply bundles the components together for convenience.

Q: For a job site with two temporary elevators and 8 floors each, how many intercoms and call boxes do I need, and how do I get a quote? 

A: You would need 8 wireless call boxes — one for each floor — and one intercom unit inside each elevator, for a total of 2 intercom units. Assuming the elevators are enclosed, we recommend the RT1064 for the elevator intercoms. Use the RT1102 on the floors. To get a quote that includes shipping, place an order on the website and under the payment method section select the "Quote" option, then complete the order as normal. An invoice will be emailed to you. If you decide to purchase, click the link in the invoice email or call us to change the payment type. The order will not ship until payment is received. You can also reach our sales team at [email protected] or 888-298-9489 during business hours.