In the context of hoistway doors, what does a latch do?

A latch in the context of hoistway doors plays a crucial role by securing the doors in place. This mechanism is essential for ensuring that the doors remain closed when the elevator is not at a landing. It prevents accidental opening and ensures the safety of the passengers, as it acts as a barrier that must be released before the doors can be opened. This is particularly important to prevent access to the hoistway when the elevator is not present, thereby reducing the risk of accidents or injuries.

While controls for elevator speed, emergency exits, and control panels are important functions related to elevator operation, they are not the primary functions of a latch in hoistway doors. The latch specifically focuses on securing the doors, which is vital for maintaining the overall safety and integrity of the elevator system.