Contractor Practice Exam Questions and
Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus
Rationales 2026 Q&A
1.
What is the primary purpose of a governor in a traction elevator system?
A. Control cab lighting
B. Detect overspeed and activate safety devices
C. Increase passenger capacity
D. Operate the machine brake
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The governor detects overspeed conditions and activates the
safety gear to stop the elevator car before uncontrolled descent occurs.
2.
Which type of elevator is most commonly used in low-rise buildings?
A. Hydraulic elevator
B. Traction elevator
C. Rack-and-pinion elevator
D. Inclined lift
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Hydraulic elevators are commonly used in low-rise buildings
because they are economical and do not require a counterweight system.
3.
What is the purpose of an elevator door interlock?
A. Improve air circulation
B. Prevent the elevator from moving with doors open
,C. Control floor selection
D. Reduce motor speed
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Door interlocks prevent elevator movement unless all landing
and car doors are closed and locked.
4.
Which code is most commonly used for elevator and escalator installations?
A. NFPA 13
B. NEC Article 250
C. ASME A17.1
D. International Plumbing Code
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: ASME A17.1 is the primary safety code governing elevators and
escalators.
5.
What component balances the elevator car in a traction system?
A. Governor
B. Counterweight
C. Sheave guard
D. Hoistway buffer
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The counterweight offsets the weight of the elevator car and
part of its rated load.
6.
Which device prevents an elevator from traveling beyond its normal
stopping point?
A. Light curtain
B. Limit switch
C. Hoist motor
D. Counterweight frame
, Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Limit switches stop travel before the elevator exceeds its
intended range.
7.
What is the main purpose of an escalator comb plate?
A. Support the truss
B. Provide access to maintenance areas
C. Guide steps into the landing area safely
D. Lubricate the step chain
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Comb plates help passengers enter and exit escalators safely by
guiding the step treads.
8.
Which elevator system uses ropes and a traction sheave?
A. Hydraulic
B. Pneumatic
C. Traction
D. Screw-drive
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Traction elevators use hoist ropes and a sheave to raise and
lower the car.
9.
What is the primary function of buffers in an elevator pit?
A. Reduce vibration in the machine room
B. Cushion the impact if the car travels too far
C. Support the guide rails
D. Improve door alignment
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Buffers are installed in the pit to absorb impact if the elevator or
counterweight overruns its travel.