AI-assisted Lift and Escalator Condition Analysis System

The Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) has launched the Lift and Escalator Condition Analysis System (LECAS) in November 2024, which exemplifies how government digitalisation can drive operational excellence, enhance public safety, and streamline business processes for trade stakeholders.

LECAS leverages artificial intelligence, machine learning, and image analytics to automate the health monitoring of critical lift and escalator components. By integrating these technologies into the Digital Log-book (DLB) platform, EMSD has created a seamless and digital workflow for registered lift/escalator engineers, contractors, and responsible persons to upload photos of lift and escalator components directly to the DLB, where the AI-powered system analyses them for signs of wear or potential failure, initially focusing on suspension ropes and brake pads.

Notification will be sent to the trade practitioners via the DLB with the outcome of the analysis. The feedback empowers practitioners to arrange targeted inspections and maintenance, significantly reducing the risk of accidents and unplanned downtime. Since its launch, LECAS has analysed over 100 000 photos, identified more than 7 800 early signs of or potential anomalies, and issued timely reminders to users. This digital approach not only streamlines compliance for lift and escalator contractors but also enables responsible parties to request the use of LECAS by contractors in maintenance contracts. The result is a more transparent, efficient, and accountable maintenance ecosystem that benefits all trade stakeholders and the general public.

EMSD’s commitment to continuous improvement ensures that LECAS will keep evolving. Plans are underway to expand the system’s analytical capabilities to cover more component types and further enhance its AI accuracy. This ongoing development supports the trade in delivering safer, more reliable lift and escalator services to the local community.

[Acknowledgement to the EMSD for providing material for the story.]