Which action should be taken immediately if an elevator shows signs of malfunction?

When an elevator shows signs of malfunction, the most responsible action is to alert maintenance staff and cease operation. This approach prioritizes safety for all users of the elevator. Continuing to operate a malfunctioning elevator could lead to severe accidents or injuries, which could be exacerbated by a delay in addressing the issue.

By immediately stopping the elevator and notifying maintenance, you ensure that trained professionals can assess and repair the issue safely and effectively. This action also helps to prevent further damage to the elevator system, which could result from ongoing use despite malfunction signs, ultimately saving time and resources in the long run.

Notifying building management, while important, does not address the immediate need to stop the elevator's operation to safeguard users. Similarly, making temporary repairs or attempting to document the issue while maintaining operation places users at risk and does not align with the best practices for elevator safety and maintenance protocols.