The Elevator Careers Podcast

Elevators, Codes, and Consequences: Lessons from 55 Years in the Industry | Lee Rigby

Matt Allred Season 5 Episode 31

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0:00 | 45:50

Today's guest is Lee Rigby, an elevator code expert who has spent more than 55 years in the elevator industry as a mechanic, contractor, inspector, instructor, consultant, and now expert witness. In this episode, Lee shares insights from decades of interpreting and teaching elevator codes and explains some of the industry's most common misconceptions about modernization and code compliance. We also discussed what years of expert witness work have taught him about the role safety practices and documentation play when accidents lead to litigation.

Chapters:

  • 00:00 - Introduction
  • 02:17 - Working on aircraft carrier elevators
  • 04:04 - The complexity of elevator codes and evolving standards
  • 08:28 - A practical definition of modernization
  • 10:02 - The importance of proper documentation
  • 11:45 - A code puzzle: the Citrus Tower
  • 13:50 - Handling old equipment with missing records
  • 16:50 - Code interpretations
  • 19:13 - Solving code puzzles and continuous learning
  • 22:12 - Code puzzle: Fire service upgrade
  • 23:38 - Human nature with accidents and litigation
  • 25:17 - Mechanics’ mistakes during deposition
  • 26:33 - Critical safety checks for door forces
  • 30:37 - The significance of documenting and safety measures
  • 32:38 - Most memorable expert witness cases
  • 37:01 - The risks of skipping safety procedures
  • 40:45 - Shortcuts during inspections and maintenance
  • 42:36 - What separates excellent documentation
  • 44:44 - Case study: documentation gaps
  • 46:34 - What the industry still needs to learn about code and safety
  • 48:07 - The roles Lee has peformed: lessons from a well-rounded career
  • 51:06 - Lee’s ongoing passion for the industry

Resources:
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Submit a Topic Idea for the Podcast: https://elevatorcareers.net/
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