CITS Lift and Escalator Mechanic Trade Syllabus

Overview

The CITS Lift and Escalator Mechanic trade is a one-year program designed to train instructors to teach the installation, maintenance, and repair of lifts, escalators, and related systems in ITIs. Divided into two semesters, the course covers Trade Technology (theory and practical), Training Methodology, Engineering Drawing, Workshop Calculation & Science, and Soft Skills. It aligns with NSQF Level 5 standards, emphasizing advanced mechanical and electrical systems, safety protocols, and effective teaching methods. The syllabus adheres to the latest DGT guidelines for outcome-based learning.


Semester 1 Syllabus

Trade Technology - Theory

  • Introduction to CITS and Lift & Escalator Mechanic Trade: Role of instructors, scope of the lift and escalator industry, and trends (e.g., smart elevators, energy-efficient systems).

  • Safety and Standards:

    • Advanced safety protocols: Risk assessment, PPE usage, and lockout-tagout procedures.

    • Compliance with IS 14665, EN 81, and ASME A17.1 standards for lifts and escalators.

    • Electrical and mechanical safety in installation and maintenance.

  • Mechanical Systems:

    • Components: Hoist mechanisms, guide rails, counterweights, and suspension systems.

    • Types of lifts: Passenger, freight, and hydraulic elevators.

  • Electrical Systems:

    • Control circuits: Relays, contactors, and wiring diagrams.

    • Power supply systems: Single-phase and three-phase connections.

  • Escalators and Moving Walkways:

    • Structure and operation: Steps, handrails, and drive systems.

    • Safety devices: Emergency stops and skirt brushes.

  • Installation Techniques:

    • Site preparation, hoisting, and alignment of lift components.

    • Electrical and mechanical integration during installation.

  • Maintenance Basics:

    • Preventive maintenance: Inspection schedules and lubrication.

    • Troubleshooting common faults in lifts and escalators.

  • Quality Control: Inspection of installations and maintenance for compliance with standards.

Trade Technology - Practical

  • Implement safety protocols in a lift/escalator lab (e.g., lockout-tagout, PPE).

  • Identify and assemble mechanical components (e.g., guide rails, counterweights).

  • Wire and test control circuits for lift operations.

  • Install and align lift components in a simulated setup.

  • Perform maintenance checks on escalator systems (e.g., steps, handrails).

  • Troubleshoot electrical and mechanical faults in lift/escalator models.

  • Use diagnostic tools (e.g., multimeters, tachometers) for inspections.

  • Conduct quality checks on installations and repairs.

  • Document installation and maintenance procedures.

Training Methodology

  • Instructor Role: Lesson planning, teaching strategies, and student evaluation techniques.

  • Communication Skills: Clear verbal and non-verbal communication for effective training.

  • Classroom Management: Engaging diverse learners and ensuring discipline.

  • Instructional Aids: Using projectors, digital tools, and e-learning platforms.

  • Practical Training: Demonstrating installation/maintenance tasks, guiding practice, and providing feedback.


Semester 2 Syllabus

Trade Technology - Theory

  • Advanced Lift Systems:

    • Machine-room-less (MRL) elevators and traction systems.

    • Smart elevators: IoT integration and remote monitoring.

  • Advanced Escalator Systems:

    • Variable frequency drives (VFDs) for escalator control.

    • Modernization of escalators and moving walkways.

  • Electronics and Control Systems:

    • Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) for lift/escalator automation.

    • Microprocessor-based control systems and fault diagnostics.

  • Safety and Emergency Systems:

    • Advanced safety devices: Overspeed governors, door interlocks, and seismic sensors.

    • Emergency rescue operations and evacuation procedures.

  • Energy Efficiency:

    • Regenerative drives and energy-saving technologies.

    • Green certifications for lifts/escalators (e.g., LEED compliance).

  • Project Management:

    • Planning and budgeting lift/escalator installation projects.

    • Use of software (e.g., MS Project) for project coordination.

  • Entrepreneurship:

    • Starting a lift/escalator maintenance business: Business plans, budgeting, and marketing.

    • Client acquisition and service contracts.

  • Industry 4.0 in Lift and Escalator Systems:

    • AI for predictive maintenance and fault prediction.

    • Cloud-based monitoring and digital twins for elevators.

  • Legal and Ethical Issues: Lift safety regulations, labor laws, and ethical maintenance practices.

Trade Technology - Practical

  • Install and configure components for MRL or smart elevators in a lab.

  • Program and test PLCs for lift/escalator control systems.

  • Modernize an escalator system with VFDs in a simulated setup.

  • Test advanced safety devices (e.g., overspeed governors, door interlocks).

  • Implement energy-efficient solutions (e.g., regenerative drives) in lift models.

  • Plan and execute a mock lift installation project with budgeting.

  • Use IoT tools for remote monitoring of lift/escalator systems (if available).

  • Develop a business plan for a lift/escalator maintenance service.

  • Document compliance with safety regulations and ethical standards.

Training Methodology

  • Advanced Teaching Techniques: Micro-teaching, flipped classrooms, and blended learning.

  • Assessment and Evaluation: Designing tests, practical assessments, and grading systems.

  • Digital Tools: Using Learning Management Systems (LMS), virtual labs, and e-learning modules.

  • Mentoring: Supporting trainees in skill development and career planning.

  • Project-Based Learning: Guiding trainees to complete lift/escalator projects (e.g., system installation).


Additional Components

Workshop Calculation & Science

  • Calculations: Load calculations, cable sizing, and lift capacity planning.

  • Science: Mechanics, electromagnetism, and properties of materials used in lifts/escalators.

Engineering Drawing

  • Drawing Basics: Detailed lift and escalator component drawings.

  • Schematics: Electrical control circuits, hoistway layouts, and escalator drive systems.

Soft Skills & Employability Skills

  • Communication: Client consultations, report writing, and technical presentations.

  • Leadership: Managing maintenance teams and installation projects.

  • Time Management: Meeting project and maintenance deadlines.


Assessment

  • Internal Assessment: Continuous evaluation through assignments, practicals, and tests.

  • Final Examination: Theory and practical exams conducted by NCVT at year-end.

  • Project Work: Complete a lift/escalator project (e.g., designing a maintenance plan) and a teaching demonstration.