225 ILCS 710/45.46

At all shaft stations a gate or guard rail not less than 3 1/2 feet or more than 4 feet above the floor shall be provided and kept in place across the shaft, except when the cage, skip, bucket or other conveyance is being loaded or unloaded thereat, but this prohibition shall not forbid the temporary removal of the gate or rail for the purpose of repairs or other operations, if proper precaution to prevent danger to persons be taken.