What Do Elevator Periodic Inspection Label Colors Mean?
Elevator periodic inspection labels indicate the annual safety status audited by accredited inspection bodies: green for flawless, blue for minor defect, yellow for defective, and red for unsafe.
Table of Contents
Elevator periodic inspection labels are official compliance tags attached inside elevator cabins and on main control panels following annual safety audits conducted by accredited Type-A inspection bodies. These four color-coded labels designate the equipment safety status, risk severity, and statutory rectification timeline.
Inspection Label Colors and Defect Classifications
Technical irregularities identified during annual audits are categorized into four standardized tiers according to safety risk.
Green Information Label: Flawless Condition
GREEN LABEL (Flawless)A green label verifies that the elevator complies with all safety standards and poses zero hazard to life or property. The elevator continues regular service without restrictions, and the subsequent periodic control is scheduled for 12 months later.
Blue Information Label: Minor Defect Condition
BLUE LABEL (Minor Defect)A blue label indicates that the elevator presents minor non-conformities that do not immediately compromise user safety. Under statutory regulations, authorized maintenance contractors must resolve these minor items before the next annual audit (within 12 months).
Yellow Information Label: Defective Condition
YELLOW LABEL (Defective)A yellow label denotes defects that directly impair operational safety. Building management is legally obligated to contract the authorized maintenance firm, resolve all non-conformities within 120 calendar days, and schedule follow-up verification.
Red Information Label: Unsafe Condition
RED LABEL (Unsafe)A red label denotes critical, life-threatening hazards. The accredited inspection body immediately notifies local administrative authorities, and the elevator is sealed against public use. Building management must rectify all hazardous conditions within 60 calendar days to secure an upgraded label.
Comparative Overview of Inspection Labels and Timelines
| Label Color | Safety Status | Operation Permit | Statutory Rectification Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Green | Flawless | Full Permit | 12 Months (Next Annual Audit) |
| Blue | Minor Defect | Permitted | 12 Months (Before Next Audit) |
| Yellow | Defective | Conditional Permit | 120 Days (Follow-up Audit Required) |
| Red | Unsafe | Prohibited (Sealed) | 60 Days (Service Suspended) |
Statutory Liabilities of Building Management
Under property management statutes and relevant regulations, building managers or executive boards are directly accountable for commissioning annual periodic inspections and ensuring that certified service contractors carry out all necessary repairs.
Operating an elevator whose seal has been broken or neglecting the mandatory 120-day re-inspection for a yellow-tagged elevator exposes building management to direct legal and civil liability in the event of an accident.
Sources & Legal References
This content is provided for informational purposes only; statutory provisions prevail and this does not constitute legal advice.
- Elevator Periodic Inspection Regulation (October 1, 2026)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can an elevator with a red tag remain in service?
Elevators with a red tag must rectify defects within 60 days. During this period, the elevator is officially sealed and suspended from service.
What is the statutory deadline for yellow label defects?
Building management must complete rectification of yellow tag defects within 120 days and request follow-up inspection.