Preparing Your Elevator Emergency Systems for Australia’s 3G Network Phase-Out

With Australia’s 3G network gradually shutting down, it’s essential for building managers and property owners to understand how to make emergency phones in elevators 4G or 5G compliant. 

Maintaining a reliable emergency communication system is crucial for passenger safety and regulatory compliance. At Simplex Elevators, we’re here to help you navigate this transition, ensuring your elevators remain safe, compliant, and operational with upgraded emergency communication options.

 

 

 


Close-up of a person pressing the emergency phone button inside an elevator, highlighting the importance of reliable communication systems in case of emergencies.

Why the 3G Shutdown Affects Elevator Safety

Elevator emergency phones are a key safety feature, providing a critical link to help in emergencies. Many of these systems currently rely on the 3G network to function, but as this network phases out, systems still using 3G will be left without connectivity, leading to:

Loss of Critical Communication

In emergencies, passengers need a reliable way to reach help. Without network access, outdated emergency phones may fail to connect.

Compliance Issues

Regulations require elevators to have functional emergency communication systems, so outdated phones may put your building at risk of non-compliance.

Higher Maintenance Costs

Keeping older 3G systems operational can increase maintenance costs, as parts and support become harder to find.

 

What You Need to Know About the 3G Network Shutdown Timeline

Here’s the latest on Australia’s 3G shutdown schedule:

  • Vodafone: 3G network shut down as of December 2023
  • Telstra: Initially planned for June 2024, recently extended to 28 October 2024
  • Optus: Initially planned for September 2024, also extended to 28 October 2024

The October 2024 deadline provided additional time to update elevator emergency phones to a compatible network, but if your systems haven’t been upgraded yet, it’s essential to act now. Contact Simplex Elevators today to ensure compliance and keep your systems fully operational without further delays to this essential upgrade.

 

Steps to Prepare for the Transition

At Simplex Elevators, we recommend these steps to help prepare your building for the 3G shutdown:

  • Assess Current Systems

Identify if your elevator emergency phones are reliant on 3G technology. Our team can inspect and determine if an upgrade is necessary.

  • Upgrade to 4G or 5G Solutions

Future-proof your systems by upgrading to 4G or 5G connections, which will keep you ahead of any potential network changes down the line. Book an upgrade with Simplex Elevators to have your systems prepared now.

  • Stay Updated on Compliance

Regulations may continue to evolve as technology advances. Our team stays current on compliance requirements and can guide you through maintaining standards in the long term.

 

Why Choose Simplex Elevators for Your Emergency Phone Upgrades

With half a century worth of experience in elevator installations, maintenance, and upgrades, Simplex Elevators can help ensure that your elevator systems remain compliant and fully functional. Our team is well-versed in the details of the 3G shutdown and can provide tailored upgrade solutions that meet your building’s specific needs. We prioritise safety, compliance, and customer satisfaction for a smooth and effective transition.

Contact us today to schedule an elevator system assessment, discuss upgrade options, or learn more about maintaining compliance and safety with 4G and 5G-ready elevator communication solutions.

 

 

 

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