Class Code 5160
Elevator Erection Or Repair
Class Code 5160 covers elevator erection and repair operations in California, including installation, modernization, dismantling, and major mechanical or electrical repairs. The approved pure premium rate for California effective September 1, 2026 is $1.508 per $100 of payroll. Understanding the specific tasks and hazards tied to elevator work helps employers manage safety programs and workers' comp costs.
What Class Code 5160 Covers
This classification applies to work that involves erecting, installing, modernizing, testing, repairing or dismantling elevators and similar vertical transportation systems. Typical systems include traction and hydraulic passenger elevators, freight elevators, escalators, moving walks and dumbwaiters. Activities covered include setting guide rails and car frames, installing hoist machines and motors, wiring control and safety circuits, installing counterweights and cables, welding or bolting cab components, and performing load and safety tests. It also covers major overhaul and modernization work such as replacing controllers, safety governors, or hydraulic systems when the employer performs substantial installation or repair work rather than routine service.
Who It Applies To
- Licensed elevator contractors and their installation crews
- Journeyman elevator mechanics and technicians
- Modernization and retrofit contractors replacing controllers or cab interiors
- General contractors employing elevator crews for new-build installations
- Property management firms or large building owners with in-house elevator mechanics
Common Job Duties
- Assembling and aligning guide rails, car frames and counterweights inside elevator shafts
- Hoisting, rigging and installing hoist machines, motors, gearboxes and hydraulic jacks
- Routing and terminating electrical control wiring, installing controllers and safety circuits
- Installing and adjusting doors, door operators, governors and safety switches
- Performing load tests, leveling adjustments and system commissioning
- Welding, bolting and mechanical fitting of cab interiors, rails and brackets
- Dismantling units for modernization, removing old controllers, cables and hydraulic components
Common Injury Risks
Understanding the $1.508 Rate
The pure premium rate of $1.508 per $100 of payroll represents the portion of premium based on expected claim costs for the classification before insurer loadings and adjustments. To calculate the base premium, divide covered payroll by 100 and multiply by 1.508 (for example, $500,000 payroll: 500,000/100 = 5,000 x 1.508 = $7,540 pure premium). The final premium an employer pays will be adjusted by the insurer for expense loads, experience modification (EMR), premium discounts, audits, and any classification splits for mixed operations.
Cal/OSHA Compliance Requirements
Cal/OSHA requirements commonly applicable include an Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP) with written procedures, fall protection for work at openings and elevated platforms, permit-required confined space procedures for shaft entry, lockout/tagout and electrical safety when servicing controllers or power circuits, and safe rigging/crane operations for hoisting heavy components. Employers must also ensure task-specific training, maintain records of training and inspections, and follow manufacturer procedures during installation and testing.
How Key HR Helps Employers Under Class Code 5160
A PEO like Key HR can help employers in Class Code 5160 by performing payroll classification reviews to ensure correct coding, managing workers' comp claims to limit indemnity and medical costs, and implementing formal return-to-work programs to reduce indemnity exposure. Key HR can also deliver safety program templates, Cal/OSHA–compliant training (fall protection, confined space entry, lockout/tagout), and ongoing safety consulting that together reduce claim frequency and the employer's experience modification factor.
Get a QuoteFrequently Asked Questions
Does routine elevator maintenance fall under Class Code 5160?
Class Code 5160 is intended for erection, installation and substantial repair or modernization work. Routine recurring service tasks such as lubrication, minor adjustments or monthly inspections may be classified differently depending on the insurer and the scope of work. Have Key HR review job descriptions and payroll allocations to confirm correct classification.
What training and documentation should I keep for elevator mechanics?
Employers should document manufacturer-specific training, in-house competency checks, task-specific Cal/OSHA training (fall protection, confined space entry, electrical safety, rigging), and records of toolbox talks and equipment inspections. Maintaining these records supports safety efforts and can improve outcomes in claims and audits.
What practical steps lower workers' comp costs for elevator erection/repair work?
Implementing a written IIPP, enforcing PPE and fall protection, using certified riggers and crane operators, pre-job hazard assessments for shaft work, structured return-to-work plans, and timely reporting and managed care for injuries all reduce frequency and severity. Partnering with a PEO to standardize these practices and manage claims can materially lower your experience modification and premiums over time.
Quick Facts
- Class Code
- 5160
- Classification
- Elevator Erection Or Repair
- Pure Premium Rate
- $1.508 / $100 payroll
- Effective Date
- September 1, 2026
- Source
- WCIRB Approved Filing
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