Ajax Firefighters Train for Elevator Rescues at Durham College Whitby Campus

According to Durham College, Ajax Fire and Emergency Services took part in a hands-on emergency elevator rescue training session this spring at the Ontario Power Generation Centre for Skilled Trades and Technology in Whitby. Durham College said the two-day program, hosted by its Corporate Training Services and delivered by Elite Elevator Services, involved 18 first responders and used simulated emergency elevator scenarios.

Durham College stated that access to real-life simulations is often difficult to achieve outside of active emergencies, and that the training is intended to help first responders develop skills for elevator rescue situations.

According to Durham College, the training was held in the Elevating Devices Shop at the Whitby campus, described by the college as the largest elevator shop space in Canada. The facility includes operational hydraulic, traction, and freight elevators, as well as escalators. Durham College reports that the training allowed first responders to become familiar with the mechanical systems involved in rescues.

Chris Porter, Deputy Fire Chief of Ajax Fire and Emergency Services, said in Durham College’s announcement that staff benefitted from gaining knowledge and hands-on experience in elevator rescue. He also stated that the training helps the department perform rescues safely, efficiently, and as a coordinated team. Porter said the department is committed to ongoing training for its responders.

Durham College indicated that the training for first responders focused on safety, communication, and understanding mechanical systems relevant to elevator rescue operations.