CA C11 Elevator Contractor Exam

CA C11 Elevator Contractor Exam Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationale2026 Q&A| Instant Download Pdf

• Which of the following is the primary purpose of a governor in an

elevator system?

• Control door operation
• Prevent overspeeding of the elevator
• Maintain cabin balance
• Monitor weight limits

Rationale: The governor is a safety device designed to engage the

safety brakes if the elevator exceeds its rated speed.

• The maximum allowable cab travel speed for a hydraulic elevator is

generally:

• 100 ft/min
• 250 ft/min
• 200 ft/min
• 500 ft/min

Rationale: Hydraulic elevators are slower due to fluid limitations;

typical maximum speed is 200 ft/min for safety and efficiency.

• Which code governs elevator installation in California?
• National Electrical Code
• Uniform Plumbing Code
• California Elevator Safety Orders
• International Building Code

Rationale: California Elevator Safety Orders (Title 8, Division 1,

Chapter 4) set the specific requirements for elevator safety.

4. The purpose of buffer springs in an elevator pit is to:

• Stabilize the hoistway
• Absorb impact if the car overruns 1 / 3

• Reduce vibration
• Assist in leveling

Rationale: Buffers act as a safety device to cushion the elevator car at

the bottom of the hoistway.

• Which of the following is considered a traction elevator?
• Electric motor drives ropes connected to a sheave
• Piston pushes the elevator from below
• Counterweights removed
• Hydraulic pump system

Rationale: Traction elevators use ropes and a motor-driven sheave,

often with counterweights, to move the car.

6. The pit depth for a standard passenger elevator is typically:

• 2–3 ft
• 3–5 ft
• 6–8 ft
• 8–10 ft

Rationale: A minimum pit depth ensures safe installation and space for

buffers and maintenance.

7. An elevator’s rated load refers to:

• Maximum mechanical stress on ropes
• Maximum passenger or freight weight allowed
• Weight of the car only
• Weight of counterweights

Rationale: Rated load indicates the elevator’s maximum designed

carrying capacity.

• Which component limits excessive cab sway in traction elevators?
• Governor
• Guide rails
• Safety brake
• Door operator

Rationale: Guide rails keep the cab aligned and reduce lateral

movement during travel.

• How often must traction elevator ropes be inspected according to

OSHA standards?

• Monthly
• Annually
• Every 6 months 2 / 3

• Every 2 years

Rationale: Rope inspection ensures ongoing safety and helps prevent

failure due to wear or corrosion.

10. The main function of the elevator controller is to:

• Maintain cab leveling
• Operate doors
• Regulate motion and speed of the elevator
• Control pit lighting

Rationale: The controller directs motor operation, braking, and floor

stopping according to input commands.

11. In a hydraulic elevator, the lowering speed is controlled by:

• Counterweight
• Valve regulating fluid flow
• Governor
• Motor rotation

Rationale: The flow control valve ensures smooth and safe descent of

hydraulic elevators.

• Which safety device stops the elevator car in the event of rope

failure?

• Buffer springs
• Safety brake
• Door interlock
• Governor

Rationale: The safety brake mechanically grips the guide rails to stop

a free-falling car.

13. Elevator doors must remain closed unless:

• The car is at least halfway between floors
• The elevator is properly leveled at a landing
• The cab is moving
• The hoistway is empty

Rationale: Door interlocks prevent the doors from opening unless the

cab is at the landing to prevent falls.

• Which type of elevator is most energy-efficient for high-rise

buildings?

• Hydraulic
• Pneumatic
• Traction with regenerative drive
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