Escalator Safety Tips

Escalators are a popular and convenient means of conveyance in many public places around the world. Tens of thousands of people ride escalators every day in schools, subway stations, shopping malls, airports, and department stores. While modern escalators have multiple, redundant safety features to help ensure the safety of riders, improper riding practices can and do result in injuries. Very rarely, fatalities have occurred. The U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission estimates that approximately 6,000 people in the U.S.A. are injured each year as a result of riding escalators. 75% of these injuries are due to trips and falls.

While your statistical risks of injury are low, adopting some simple safety practices can help to prevent injury and make the riding experience more enjoyable for everyone.

1. Face forward (in the direction the escalator is traveling) and old the handrail at all times. If a young child cannot reach the handrail, an adult should hold his or her hand firmly during the entire ride.

2. Stand in the middle of the steps, avoiding the step edge. The small gap at the edge of the step can catch on footwear or clothing and cause injuries. Do not allow children to jump, play, or sit on steps.

3. Examine clothing for entanglement hazards. Ensure that shoelaces are firmly tied. Scarves, long coats, drawstrings, and shoelaces can become caught in small gaps between moving parts.

4. Never bring large wheeled objects such as shopping carts, luggage, or strollers onto the escalator. If you have such an item, it is much safer to take an elevator.

5. People with mobility issues that require the use of walkers or crutches should not ride an escalator.

6. Note the location of emergency shutoff buttons; these are usually located at the entrance and exit of the escalator.

Following these safety tips will help everyone ride escalators safely and prevent injuries.