IUEC PUSHES FOR PASSAGE OF ELEVATOR SAFETY BILL IN TEXAS

David Lopez, a second-generation elevator constructor and International Union of Elevator Constructors (IUEC) Local #21 representative from Waxahachie, Texas, went before state lawmakers at the Capitol in Austin on March 6 to urge passage of a bill he believes would save lives, the Daily Light reports. Lopez, who lost a friend and colleague in an elevator accident and represents hundreds of IUEC members across Texas, emphasized House Bill 2466, which would create a registration of trained and qualified elevator mechanics. Observing that one elevator mechanic dies on the job in the U.S. every 90 days, Lopez says requiring contractors to provide proper education, apprenticeship programs and continuing education to their employees would enhance safety for both workers and the riding public.