Chapter 1: Understanding Elevator Buttons

Have you ever found yourself in an elevator, impatiently pressing the ‘close door’ button, hoping it would expedite your ride? You might be shocked to discover that this button has been non-functional since the 1990s.

The reason these buttons are ineffective is linked to the Americans with Disabilities Act, enacted in 1990. This legislation required elevators to provide adequate time for individuals with disabilities to board safely. Consequently, any elevator constructed post-Act features a ‘close door’ button that doesn’t operate. Given that elevators typically last around 25 years, most older models now feature this non-working button.

Only emergency or maintenance personnel have the ability to activate the close buttons, as they possess the necessary codes or keys. Regular users can press the button repeatedly, yet the doors will only close based on a predetermined timer.

Section 1.1: The Placebo Button Phenomenon

The ‘close door’ button serves as a classic instance of a ‘placebo button’—a term for buttons that create an illusion of control without any actual effect. A similar example can be found in the ‘Walk’ buttons at crosswalks, where pressing the button does not influence the pre-set crossing time.

Subsection 1.1.1: Elevator Functionality Across the Globe

In contrast, in many countries outside the U.S., such as the United Kingdom, the ‘close door’ button is wired to function properly when present. The UK maintains standards akin to the Americans with Disabilities Act, stipulating how long an elevator door should remain open, and the button can effectively close the doors after the designated delay.

Chapter 2: Video Insights

Discover whether the ‘close door’ button in elevators is functional or just a placebo in this informative video.

Learn about the operation of elevator ‘close door’ buttons in different countries and the surprising truth behind their functionality.