*Children can become entrapped in the space between the exterior landing (hoistway) door and the interior elevator car door or gate, and suffer serious injuries or death

Emmanuel Akosile | ConsumerConnect

Otis Elevator Company and CemcoLift Elevators Systems are recalling about 5,000 Otis and CemcoLift elevators manufactured in the United States (US), and used in consumers’ homes.

The companies disclosed that children could become entrapped in the space between the exterior landing (hoistway) door and the interior elevator car door or gate, and suffer serious injuries or death when the elevator is called to another floor when in use.

It was gathered that four incidents were reported involving an Otis or CemcoLift private residence elevators that resulted in a crushed spine and abdomen, fractured hip, broken arm and feet, and bruising to the face and chest.

The current recall involves Otis private residence elevators purchased before 2012, and CemcoLift private residence elevators purchased from 1999 to 2012.

The elevators are used in consumers’ homes; Otis and CemcoLift private residence elevators cost approximately $20,000 to purchase and install.

Report noted that Otis private residence elevators and parts were sold to independent third-party contractors and, occasionally, directly to consumers through 2012.

Otis sold CemcoLift private residence elevators and parts to independent third-party contractors, and occasionally, directly to consumers from approximately 1999 to 2012.

On what to do in addressing the problem, the companies direct consumers should disable or block children’s access to any Otis or CemcoLift private residence elevator and contact Otis to schedule a free inspection and the installation of space guard(s), if necessary.

In the meantime, consumers may contact Otis on (800) 233-6847 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (ET) Monday through Friday or online at www.otis.com and click on “Important Safety Information–Private Residence Elevators” at the bottom of the page for more information on the issue.