Stretcher Compatible Elevator Cabs
When an emergency strikes, every second matters.
The elevator carrying a patient on a stretcher should never be an afterthought—it should be a carefully engineered part of your building’s safety plan.
At GMV North America, we design and manufacture stretcher compatible elevator cabs that meet the strict requirements of the International Building Code (IBC) and the Florida Building Code—without sacrificing performance, efficiency, or the non-proprietary freedom our customers expect.
What “Stretcher Compatible” Really Means
A stretcher compatible elevator is designed to accommodate a standard ambulance stretcher in its fully opened, horizontal position. Under IBC regulations, any building with four or more stories above or below grade must include at least one elevator capable of transporting a 24-inch by 84-inch (610 mm x 2134 mm) stretcher. Florida Building Code raises the bar even further, requiring stretcher compatibility in buildings over three stories or where the vertical travel distance exceeds 25 feet.
These are not suggestions—they are life-safety requirements. And meeting them takes more than simply installing a larger cab. It takes careful planning around door width, interior dimensions, load capacity, and smooth, vibration-free operation that keeps patients stable during transport.
Options for Every Building Type
GMV North America offers stretcher compatible configurations across our full range of elevator systems, so you never have to choose between code compliance and the right technology for your project.
Our ICON Series MRL traction elevators bring stretcher compatibility to modern commercial buildings where space is limited. With no machine room required and whisper-quiet gearless motors, the ICON Series proves that patient transport elevators can be both compact and exceptionally smooth.
For low-rise commercial buildings, our EDGE Series hydraulic elevators provide a proven, field-tested platform with stretcher-ready cab configurations. The holeless hydraulic design and synchronized jack system create the stable, gentle ride that medical transport demands.
The BOSS Series LULA elevators extend stretcher compatibility to smaller healthcare facilities, clinics, and senior living communities. With their compact footprint and ADA-compliant accessibility features, BOSS elevators bridge the gap between full commercial systems and limited-application lifts.
Designed with Patients and Providers in Mind
Transporting a patient on a stretcher is stressful enough without adding a rough elevator ride to the equation. That is why GMV stretcher compatible cabs are engineered for smooth acceleration, quiet operation, and minimal vibration. Every component—from the controller to the door operator—is tuned to deliver the stable, predictable movement that EMS teams and hospital staff rely on.
And because every GMV system is built on non-proprietary, open architecture, you maintain complete control over maintenance, service, and long-term operation. You are never locked into a single provider for repairs or parts, which means faster response times and lower lifetime costs for equipment that literally saves lives.
Let Us Help You Plan for Compliance
Navigating IBC and Florida Building Code requirements for stretcher compatible elevators can feel overwhelming, especially when you are juggling budgets, timelines, and multiple stakeholders. GMV North America simplifies the process with detailed design guides, BIM files, and engineering support that helps architects, contractors, and building owners get it right the first time.
Whether you are designing a new hospital, upgrading a medical office building, or bringing an older multi-story facility up to code, our team is ready to help you select the right stretcher compatible elevator system for your needs.
Stretcher Compatible MRL Traction Elevators and Hydraulic Elevators
GMV has both machine room less and hydraulic elevators that meet stretcher requirements.
The International Building Code specifies that any building “four or more stories above, or four or more stories below grade plane”
shall have at least one elevator car that is able to accommodate a standard 24” x 84°* (610 mm x 2134 mm) ambulance stretcher in
the open, horizontal position.
Some GMV EDGE series hydraulic passenger elevator cabs and GMV ICON series MRL traction elevator cabs meet the International
Building Code stretcher requirements.
* Different codes may be applicable in Florida and other jurisdications.
Download your guide for Stretcher Compatible Cabs
Contact GMV North America today at +1 855-653-0215 or info@gmv-na.com to discuss your project, request our stretcher compatibility design guide, or explore specifications for the ICON, EDGE, and BOSS series.
