Escalator Accident - Using escalators in buildings, especially in shopping malls, lots of help movement of people to travel from floor to floor, go up and down slopes. However, despite the use of these facilities, many do not know that the escalator also pose a danger that can lead to serious accidents if not used properly. Accidents involving escalators often heard, but often underestimated.
Learn about safety measures that can be practiced in order to help ensure passenger safety;
When entering escalators and moving walkways, follow these guidelines;
- Don’t ride with canes, walkers, carts or wheeled vehicles, including strollers.
- Don’t ride barefoot or with loose shoelaces.
- On escalators, watch the direction of the moving steps, and enter only when steps are going in the proper direction. Do not step onto an escalator going in the opposite direction.
- Step on and off with caution. Take extra care if you are wearing bifocals or similar eyewear.
- Hold children firmly with one hand or hold child's free hand.
- Hold small packages firmly in one hand, , but always leave one hand available to hold the handrail.
- Grasp the handrail as you step promptly onto the moving step or walkway.
- Do not touch the sides below the handrail.
- Keep loose clothing clear of steps and sides.
- Don’t use an inoperative escalator as a stairway.
- Don’t use an escalator to transport freight.
- If you are uncomfortable boarding or riding an escalator, use the elevator instead.
When riding escalators and moving walkways, follow these guidelines;
- On escalators, stand in the center of the step and face forward.
- Keep loose clothing clear of steps and sides.
- Wear closed-toed and hard-soled shoes, and avoid wearing footwear made of soft-resin or other rubbery materials.
- On moving walkways, stationary passengers should stay to the right and let those walking pass on the left.
- Keep feet away from the sides.
- Keep a steady grip on the handrail. Reposition your hand slowly if the handrail moves ahead or behind the steps.
- Don't climb onto or ride the handrail.
- Don’t rest your handbag or parcels on the handrail.
- Pay attention to the moving walkway—don’t be distracted by your surroundings.
- Don’t lean against or over the sides.
- Don’t run.
- Never sit on the escalator step or moving walk.
- Parents, make sure children ride in a proper manner. Do not let children sit on steps or stand too close to sides.
When exiting escalators and moving walkways, follow these guidelines;
- Step off promptly.
- Make sure to step over the comb fingers; don't let your feet slide off the end of the escalator.
- Don’t hesitate. Immediately move clear of the exit area; don’t stop to talk or look around since other passengers may be behind you.
Source: National Elevator Industry, Inc. and Otis Elevator Company.
