ITI Trade: Lift and Escalator Mechanic

Course Duration: 2 Years (4 Semesters of 6 Months Each)
Qualification Level: NSQF Level 5

Course Introduction

The Lift and Escalator Mechanic trade is a professional vocational program under the Craftsmen Training Scheme (CTS). This two-year course is designed to impart technical knowledge and practical skills necessary for the installation, maintenance, repair, and operation of lifts (elevators), escalators, and moving walkways. The training develops core competencies in mechanical and electrical systems, with an emphasis on safety standards, quality control, and environmental regulations. The curriculum includes Professional Skills, Professional Knowledge, Engineering Drawing, Workshop Calculation & Science, and Employability Skills. In addition, project work and extracurricular activities are integrated to build confidence and ensure all-round development.

The program is structured into four semesters, each focusing on key aspects of the trade to ensure comprehensive learning.

Semester-Wise Course Structure

1st Semester

In the first semester, trainees are introduced to fundamental concepts and safety practices, along with the use of basic tools and equipment. The key areas covered include:

  • Safety and Environment: Understanding workplace safety, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), fire extinguishers, and artificial respiratory resuscitation techniques.
  • Trade Tools and Standardization: Identification and use of various hand tools and equipment.
  • Basic Electrical Knowledge: Learning about conductors, cables, skinning techniques, joint-making, soldering, and crimping.
  • Allied Trades Practice: Performing basic carpentry and fitting tasks.
  • Electrical Laws and Circuits: Understanding Ohm's Law, Kirchhoff’s Laws, and laws of resistance; practicing electrical circuits and combinations.
  • Magnetism and Batteries: Learning the laws of magnetism and practicing the testing and maintenance of different types of batteries.
  • Measuring Instruments: Using analog and digital instruments to measure electrical parameters.
  • Basic Electronics: Gaining an understanding of simple electronic components and circuits.

2nd Semester

In the second semester, trainees advance to intermediate-level tasks involving mechanical systems and electrical controls:

  • Basic Civil/Drafting Work: Creating basic drawings and layouts used in lifts and escalators.
  • Lifting Tools and Equipment: Using hoists, pulleys, and chain blocks; performing simple welding and brazing operations.
  • Panel Wiring: Installing and wiring various components on control panels.
  • Transformers: Understanding their basic functions and performing testing procedures.
  • AC/DC Machines: Starting, running, speed control, reversing rotation, and conducting basic maintenance of AC and DC motors, including synchronous motors.
  • VVVF Drives: Connecting and operating lift motors through Variable Voltage Variable Frequency (VVVF) drives and understanding AC/DC drive systems.
  • Power Electronic Devices: Working with devices like SCR, DIAC, TRIAC, UJT, FET, JFET, and MOSFET.
  • Converters and Controllers: Practicing with digital/analog converters and controllers for system automation.

3rd Semester

In the third semester, the focus shifts towards the specific knowledge and skills required for elevators and escalators:

  • Safety Practices in Elevators and Escalators: Understanding and applying safety protocols while working on these systems.
  • Working Principles: Studying the operations of elevators, escalators, and moving walkways.
  • Installation Practices: Installing various parts and components, control systems, and safety circuits of elevators.
  • Elevator Installation Requirements: Understanding elevator well construction, car bottom clearance, landing zones, top over-travel, overhead clearance, and running clearances.
  • Escalators and Moving Walkways: Learning their construction and parts, practicing calculations for alighting areas and pit areas, and installing mechanical and electrical equipment.

4th Semester

The fourth semester involves advanced training in maintenance, testing, and troubleshooting:

  • Electrical and Electronic Control Devices: Installing control panels, safety devices, limit switches, and power wiring systems.
  • Component Testing and Tuning: Carrying out checks, tuning of components, and ensuring the functionality and safety of systems.
  • Preventive and Breakdown Maintenance: Performing regular servicing, repairing, and replacement of faulty electrical/electronic components.
  • Servicing Mechanical Parts: Lubricating moving parts, draining and refilling grease/oils, and general mechanical maintenance.
  • Auto Rescue Device (ARD): Familiarization with ARD operation for emergency rescue in elevators.

Job Roles After Completion

Electrician General

  • Installs, maintains, and repairs electrical machinery, equipment, and fittings in various environments such as factories, workshops, powerhouses, and residential/commercial premises.
  • Reads and interprets technical drawings to execute electrical circuits and installations.
  • Installs motors, transformers, switchgear, lighting fixtures, and performs necessary electrical connections.
  • Tests installations for faults and rectifies them using tools like megger and test lamps.

Electrical Fitter

  • Assembles and fits electrical machinery like motors, transformers, and generators.
  • Reads wiring diagrams, collects components, and performs assembly while ensuring accurate fitment and functionality.
  • Installs and maintains power distribution equipment such as switchboards and bus bars.
  • Repairs and overhauls equipment periodically or in the event of faults.

Liftman (Lift Operator)

  • Operates and monitors electric lifts, ensuring the safe transport of passengers and goods.
  • Responds to signals, opens and closes lift gates, and operates controls to reach designated floors.
  • Ensures lifts are not overloaded and reports any malfunctions to maintenance staff.

Building and Related Electricians (Other)

  • Includes electricians engaged in specialized or generalized electrical installation, maintenance, and repair work not otherwise classified.

NSQF Level Compliance

The Lift and Escalator Mechanic trade is aligned with NSQF Level 5, matching the level descriptors across the following five domains:

  1. Process – Ability to perform complex operations requiring technical know-how.
  2. Professional Knowledge – Comprehensive theoretical knowledge and understanding of processes and systems.
  3. Professional Skill – Practical skills in maintenance, troubleshooting, and installation.
  4. Core Skill – Communication, basic arithmetic, and IT skills necessary for job execution.
  5. Responsibility – Ability to work independently and take responsibility for outcomes.

Broad Learning Outcomes

  1. Apply safe working practices.
  2. Follow environmental regulations and ensure workplace cleanliness.
  3. Use effective communication methods, including technical and company communication.
  4. Demonstrate basic mathematical principles for practical problem-solving.
  5. Explain and apply scientific concepts relevant to mechanical and electrical systems.
  6. Interpret and use engineering drawings for trade-specific tasks.
  7. Understand and implement productivity, quality control, and labor welfare practices.
  8. Promote energy conservation, reduce pollution, and contribute to sustainable practices.
  9. Manage personal finances, understand entrepreneurship, and handle organizational tasks.
  10. Use basic computer applications and internet tools for improved efficiency and learning.

Specific Learning Outcomes

1st Semester

  • Perform basic carpentry and fitting operations.
  • Prepare electrical wire joints, perform soldering and crimping, and measure insulation resistance.
  • Select and use AC/DC measuring instruments, measure electrical parameters, and verify circuit characteristics.
  • Install, test, and maintain batteries.
  • Wire electrical accessories and ensure proper earthing of equipment.
  • Assemble and test basic electronic circuits.

2nd Semester

  • Create technical drawings for lift and escalator components.
  • Use lifting equipment and perform basic welding/brazing.
  • Perform industrial wiring on control panels and assemble electrical equipment as per standards.
  • Install and operate AC/DC motors, synchronous motors, and protective/control devices.
  • Assemble and test power electronic and digital circuits.
  • Control AC/DC motor speed using solid-state devices.

3rd Semester

  • Operate different types of lifts, escalators, moving walkways, and conveyor systems safely.
  • Install elevators in multi-story buildings, shopping malls, airports, and industrial sites.
  • Install escalators and moving walkways in various commercial and public spaces.

4th Semester

  • Install electrical and electronic control devices for lift and escalator drives.
  • Conduct preventive and breakdown maintenance for vertical transport systems.
  • Perform checks and tests to ensure the safe operation of lifts, escalators, and moving walkways.

Career Opportunities and Future Scope

With growing urban development and infrastructure projects, skilled Lift and Escalator Mechanics are in high demand across:

  • Construction Companies
  • Malls and Multiplexes
  • Hospitals and Hotels
  • Airports and Metro Stations
  • Residential and Commercial Buildings
  • Government and Private Sector Infrastructure Projects

Trainees also have excellent opportunities for self-employment, offering maintenance and installation services for elevators and escalators.

Conclusion

The Lift and Escalator Mechanic trade is a comprehensive, job-oriented program offering promising career prospects in the fast-growing infrastructure and real estate sectors. The training focuses on technical knowledge, hands-on practice, and safety to ensure that candidates are ready to meet industry demands and excel as skilled professionals.

Subscribe to Lift and Escalator Mechanic