Escalators are a convenient part of modern infrastructure, moving millions of people daily through shopping centres, airports, train stations, and office buildings. While they are designed with safety in mind, accidents do occur—and most are preventable with proper awareness and maintenance. By investing in high-quality escalators and promoting safe usage, businesses and facility managers can significantly reduce risks for passengers.
Common Escalator Accidents
1. Slips and Trips
One of the most frequent incidents on escalators involves slips, trips, or missteps. This can occur if someone loses balance while stepping on or off the escalator, often due to distractions, untied shoelaces, or inappropriate footwear.
2. Falls from Height
Though less common, falls over escalator handrails or onto lower levels can lead to severe injuries. These incidents usually occur when individuals lean too far over the sides, often children or those carrying bulky items.
3. Clothing and Footwear Entrapment
Loose clothing, scarves, or even shoelaces can become caught in escalator steps or comb plates. Rubber footwear and soft soles are particularly susceptible to getting stuck in moving parts, posing a significant hazard.
4. Handrail Incidents
Hands and fingers can be caught between the moving handrail and surrounding panels, especially if children are not closely supervised.
5. Mechanical Malfunctions
While rare with modern technology, mechanical issues such as sudden stops, step collapses, or handrail malfunctions can cause unexpected accidents if escalators are not properly maintained.
How Escalator Accidents Can Be Prevented
1. Regular Maintenance and Safety Checks
Facility owners must ensure escalators are regularly inspected, cleaned, and serviced. Routine maintenance not only extends the life of the equipment but also identifies issues before they pose a risk.
2. Clear Signage and Safety Reminders
Displaying visible instructions near escalators—such as holding the handrail, standing in the correct direction, and supervising children—reminds passengers of safe practices.
3. Appropriate Footwear and Clothing
Passengers should avoid loose clothing and ensure shoelaces are tied before stepping onto an escalator. Soft-soled shoes should be kept clear of comb plates and side panels.
4. Supervision of Children and Elderly Users
Children should be accompanied by adults, and older passengers who may need assistance should be supported when using escalators. Offering alternative options like lifts where possible is also advisable.
5. Modern Safety Features
Upgrading to escalators equipped with emergency stop buttons, safety brushes, skirt deflectors, and step demarcations provides an added layer of protection against accidents.
6. Encouraging Safe Behaviour
Simple measures such as standing still, avoiding horseplay, and keeping bags and prams off escalators can prevent a majority of common accidents.
Escalators are safe and efficient when used correctly and maintained to the highest standards
Many of the accidents associated with them are preventable through a combination of responsible use, regular servicing, and modern safety features. By choosing high-quality escalators and promoting safe passenger behaviour, businesses can create a safer environment for all.
