When we started Hill Hiker, Inc. in 1997, we endeavored to create the absolute best hillside tram and lift systems on the market. When it comes to a system that transports your friends and family over rough, elevated terrain, the best means that safety has to be the most important priority in everything we do. Twenty-two years later, that commitment has resulted in an unprecedented perfect safety record and a brand that is synonymous with safety in the tram industry. How do we do it?
Rigid Rule Compliance
It starts with our deep knowledge of and strict adherence to current regulations and code. Each Hill Hiker® Inclined Elevator tram system is built to meet and exceed the highest national elevator safety standards. The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) sets rigid code standards for the elevator, escalator and conveyance industry, as outlined in ASME A17.1-5.1 for commercial Inclined Elevator systems and 5.4 for residential Inclined Elevator systems. To ensure the overall safety of your system, it is crucial that these codes are scrupulously followed, and Hill Hiker, Inc. ensures that all of our systems will meet or exceed all the applicable elevator safety and building codes in your area, something that not all tram manufacturers can say.
Additionally, we make sure we personally pull all the necessary elevator permits required for your location and have an impeccable record for passing rigorous state elevator inspections. Our record for performing successful full-load break-away safety testing, among other tests, is second to none. If additional local building permits are required in your area Hill Hiker will help coordinate the entire process.
Staff Expertise
At Hill Hiker, we believe that an investment in the best minds and most innovative designers is what produces a superior product. One of the main aspects that sets Hill Hiker apart from our competitors is our commitment to working with the best engineers, technicians, and designers in the business. Our lead factory technicians and local partners hold elevator contractor and master elevator mechanic licenses.
All Hill Hiker® lift systems must pass our meticulous in-house testing and installation inspection process. Our in-house safety inspection team explores and tests all failure scenarios, and implements safety systems for each aspect as needed. We only put in place designs that ensure the utmost reliability. Many of our safeties are simple by design and mechanical in nature which makes them highly predictable, enduringly reliable and expertly vetted.
Superior Standard Safeties
Hill Hiker® hillside elevator and lift systems stand out due to over 30 different individual standard safety features and design components. Our innovative safety elements include:
- Emergency stop button – on car and at each station
- Slack cable safety brake – in the event of a cut cable
- Speed governor with integrated safety brake – to prevent the car from traveling too fast
- Captured rail design – to prevent the lift from going off the tracks
- Car door and gate stop switches – to prevent the lift from operating if any doors are open
- Electromagnetic motor brake – for normal braking and stops
- Keyed or keyless security – to prevent unsupervised use
- Low voltage controls – to lower potential shock hazard
- ADA non-slip grate flooring – to minimize slip hazards
- Final terminal switches – in the event of over travel
- UL listed electronics – every system is individually tested and approved by an independent UL licensed panel shop
Safeguarding the Future
As Hill Hiker, Inc. continues to move forward to our landmark 25th year, we plan to maintain our flawless safety record and our reputation for excellence in the tram and elevator industry. Through superior design, expert engineering and the most rigorous safety protocols in the business, our customers know that a Hill Hiker® system is the safest and best built tram system available.
