Robert P. Cotton has been recognized as one of America's Most Influential Businessmen by the International Association of Who's Who. Cotton, an elevator and escalator expert based in San Francisco, has made significant contributions to the field through over 40 years of experience, more than 1,000 national inspections, and his role as an expert witness in litigation involving elevator and escalator failures.
Cotton's consulting work focuses on injuries and damage resulting from faulty equipment, floods, or fires. His forensic analysis delves into electrical and mechanical failures, covering various aspects such as accidents, inspections, maintenance, and code compliance. He has been called to testify more than 80 times, providing crucial insights for both plaintiffs and defendants.
One of Cotton's key advocacies is educating building owners about the importance of technology advancements and renovating equipment. While these upgrades can be costly, they extend the longevity of the equipment and prevent potential failures. Modern safety features, which were not available a few years ago, can significantly reduce the risk of serious injuries if a failure occurs. Cotton emphasizes that compliance with safety codes, routine inspections, and proper maintenance can ensure that elevators and escalators are safe and reliable.
Cotton's commitment to safety is also deeply personal. In 1995, he was severely injured while renovating elevators in a San Francisco hotel. An electrical short caused an arc-flash, resulting in second and third-degree burns on 43% of his body. This life-altering experience inspired Cotton to live life to the fullest and become involved with the Alicia Ann Ruch Burn Foundation. He volunteered as a counselor for their Champ-Camp, a summer camp for children with burn injuries, for 17 years. Cotton describes this involvement as one of the most rewarding experiences of his life.
Beyond his professional work, Cotton is an avid cyclist, snowboarder, and rock climber. He continues to spread awareness about the importance of safety codes, routine maintenance, and proper inspections to ensure that elevators and escalators are not feared but trusted for their safety and reliability.
Cotton's recognition as one of America's Most Influential Businessmen underscores the critical role of expertise and advocacy in public safety. His contributions highlight the importance of technological advancements and strict adherence to safety protocols in preventing equipment failures and ensuring the well-being of users.
