This chapter shall not be construed to relieve or lessen the responsibility or liability of any person, firm, or corporation owning, operating, controlling, maintaining, erecting, constructing, installing, altering, inspecting, testing, or repairing any elevator or other related mechanism covered by this chapter for damages to person or property caused by any defect therein, nor does the state assume any such liability or responsibility therefor or any liability to any person for whatsoever reason by the enactment of this chapter or any acts or omissions arising hereunder.