All new elevator hoistways in California must now have a permanent means to prevent the accumulation of water "without human intervention". A sump pump or a drain must be installed, but the California State Division of Safety and Health has no interest in what happens to the drainage after it leaves the hoistway (as long as it is not directly connected to a sewer). This has left he plumbing designer with the daunting task of satisfying the local code authorities, the building owner and the contractor.

The INTENT of the requirement is to eliminate the need for any unqualified personnel to enter the hoistway to remove any water or hydraulic fluid. But what about servicing a pump? If the owner or engineer wants to permanently install a pump or suction line it should be in a basin outside the elevator shaft. Many jurisdictions will allow a holding tank outside the hoistway with an alarm. A portable pump or suction line (from a vacuum truck or other means) can the be used to evacuate the tank. Check with the authority having jurisdiction as to whether a double wall holding tank is required (per California Title 23). An automatic pump can be installed in the tank, but most localities will require the discharge to go through an interceptor. The elevator code does not allow a direct connection between the elevator shaft and the sewer (due to the possibility of methane gas entering the hoistway), but a direct connection from a vented holding tank or sump should be permissible.

The simplest and least expensive design may not satisfy everyone involved in a construction project, but one that requires the least amount of human intervention may be the easiest to justify.