Requesting comments on the power to an elevator bank in a two-story office building. Article 700 lists "elevators" as a possible emergency load. Can they be considered "Legally Required"? or "Optional"?

And please comment on the wiring methods from the installed generator sized to carry the entire load of the building.

According to section 3003.1 of the FBC, if standby power is required or furinished to operate an elevator, it must comply with the provisions of the code. This to me means legally required.

There are several sections of the FBC which mandates standby power for elevators. When mandatred by the FBC, the system is positively to be considered a legally required system.

For example, elevators used as a component of the means of egress per Chapter 11 are required to have standby power. Elevators used in certain oocupancies identified in Chapter 4 of the FBC require standby power for elevators. Chapter 10 also has some requirements for emergency power in certain occupancies.

I agree Bryan is 100% correct.

Elevators are not usually considered a 'means of egress'. They are a required element of 'accessibilty' to upper levels. FBC requires exit stairways for egress...fire-rated interior or open exterior. Elevators can be commandeered by the Fire Dept. and during fire events normally return to grade floor level for use by the Fire Dept. See new 2009 FBC supplement 3002.4. A two story office building would not normally have required standby although there is future provision for it in FBC section 2702.2...